Here are three key matchups to watch when the Falcons (6-9) play the Buccaneers (7-8) in a battle for second place in the NFC South on Sunday at 1 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa:
Falcons DE Vic Beasley vs. Bucs tackles: Beasley, in what could be his last game with the Falcons, needs two sacks to reach 10 for the second time in his career. He has been moving around the defense, playing left and right defensive ends and some linebacker, to get some favorable matchups. Bucs tackles Donovan Smith (left) and Demar Dotson (right) have both allowed five sacks, which is tied for 22nd in the league among all tackles, according to Pro Football Focus.
Falcons RT Kaleb McGary vs. Bucs LB Devin White: In the previous meeting, Devin White had a monster game rushing over McGary. He finished with eight tackles, two sacks, two quarterback hits and two tackles for losses. McGary has played 1,015 offensive snaps and has given up 11 sacks, which is tops in the league among tackles, according to Pro Football Focus.
Falcons LG Chris Lindstrom vs. Bucs NT Vita Vea: Lindstrom didn't play when the teams met earlier this season and will be counted on to help get the run game going and firm up the interior of the passing pocket. Lindstrom has played 220 snaps, has committed one penalty and has not allowed a sack since coming back from his broken foot. The massive Vea (6-foot-4 and 347 pounds) is a mostly a run-stuffer, but Bucs coach Bruce Arians said he's starting to rush the passer better.
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