By the numbers: Falcons need to stop Bucs passing game

Atlanta Falcons' Damontae Kazee (27) reacts to a missed field goal as Seattle Seahawks holder Jon Ryan walks away at the end of the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 20, 2017, in Seattle. The Falcons won 34-31. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)

By Chris Vivlamore

Nov 22, 2017

The Falcons have an edge in most statistical categories in Sunday’s matchup against the Buccaneers. While the Buccaneers have a dreadful defense, they can pass the ball. Of course, they can’t stop the pass either. That will be something to watch in the NFC South contest.

The Falcons (6-4) and Buccaneers (4-6) are each on a two-game win streak. The Buccaneers run has come with Ryan Fitzpatrick at quarterback after Jameis Winston suffered a shoulder injury and he will again be absent this week.

Here’s a look at how the teams stack up in NFL rankings:

Falcons Statistic Buccaneers

No. 10 (359.1) Total offense No. 13 (342.8)

No. 13 (245.4) Pass offense No. 4 (263.0)

No. 14 (113.7) Rush offense No. 30 (79.8)

No. 13 (23.1) Points scored No. 22 (20.3)

No. 10 (316.7) Total defense No. 29 (383.5)

No. 7 (200.8) Pass defense No. 31 (276.3)

No. 22 (115.9) Run defense No. 13 (107.2)

No. 13 (21.0) Points allowed No. 17 (22.8)

No. 21 (minus-2) Turnover margin No. 9 (plus-5)

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