Buccaneers Shut Out Falcons Without Completing a Pass

The Buccaneers relied on their running game and defense to blank the Falcons 16-0 at Raymond James Stadium. In heavy rain, Tampa Bay attempted only three passes and completed none, becoming the first NFL team to win without a completion since Buffalo did so in 1974.

Bucky Irving rushed for 170 yards on 27 carries and scored the game’s only touchdown. Kenny Gainwell added 140 yards on 25 carries as Tampa Bay set a franchise record with 324 rushing yards. Kicker Chase McLaughlin made all three of his field-goal attempts and remains perfect this season, with 19 successful kicks.

Atlanta quarterback Michael Penix Jr. completed eight of 24 passes for 125 yards and threw four interceptions. The Falcons also struggled to run, with Bijan Robinson finishing with 76 yards. Tampa Bay’s defense helped turn the turnovers into scoring chances, while the Buccaneers kept the ball on the ground in the difficult conditions.

The win moved Tampa Bay to 3-5, half a game behind Carolina in the NFC South. The Buccaneers visit the Chicago Bears next Sunday night. Atlanta, also 3-5, is set to travel to Madrid to play the Cincinnati Bengals next Sunday.