The Tampa Bay Buccaneers squandered a two-touchdown lead in the fourth quarter, suffering a stunning 29-28 loss to the Atlanta Falcons on December 14, 2023, at Raymond James Stadium. This defeat marks the Buccaneers’ fifth loss in six games, leaving them with a record of 7-7 and placing them a half-game behind the Carolina Panthers in the NFC South standings.
Following the game, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles expressed his frustration, urging his players to “look in the mirror” and take responsibility for their performance. Bowles characterized the loss as “inexcusable,” emphasizing the need for accountability among the players. “You don’t make excuses,” he said, conveying the emotional weight of the defeat. “It’s got to mean something to you. It’s more than a job. It’s your livelihood.”
The Buccaneers appeared to be in control, leading 28-14 with just under ten minutes remaining. However, the Falcons rallied, narrowing the gap to 28-20 with a touchdown run by Bijan Robinson. A critical moment occurred when Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield was intercepted by Dee Alford, allowing Atlanta to capitalize on the turnover. The Falcons subsequently drove 67 yards for a touchdown, though they failed on a two-point conversion attempt, making the score 28-26.
With 1:49 left in the game, Atlanta regained possession after forcing a Buccaneers punt. On a tense final drive, Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins completed crucial passes, including a 20-yard connection on fourth-and-14 to David Sills V. This set up a game-winning 43-yard field goal by Zane Gonzalez as time expired.
Bowles reiterated that the responsibility for executing plays lies with the players, stating, “The coaches have done everything they can do.” He emphasized the need for the team to hold one another accountable, highlighting that the failures of a few individuals can impact the overall success.
According to ESPN Analytics, the Buccaneers’ chances of winning the NFC South drop to 35% if the Carolina Panthers win against the New Orleans Saints on December 17, 2023. Conversely, their chances increase to 76% if the Panthers lose.
Mayfield, who had all his wide receivers available for the first time this season, including six-time Pro Bowl selection Mike Evans and second-year player Jalen McMillan, took personal responsibility for the loss. “This one is going to haunt me. It falls on my shoulders,” he said. “It’s not the defense’s fault. It’s my fault.”
As the Buccaneers look to rebound from this disappointing loss, the focus will be on improving their performance and securing a playoff spot in the coming weeks. The road ahead remains challenging, but Bowles and his team hope to turn the tide before the season concludes.
