NFL Week 5 kicks off on Thursday Night Football between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Atlanta Falcons. A huge game within the NFC South division early in the season that could be pivotal for the division crown. Currently, the Buccaneers hold a one-game lead in the division. Below are my Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons Preview and Predictions.
Both teams come into this game with injury concerns, especially on a short week. First, the Atlanta Falcons, Bijan Robinson is dealing with a hamstring injury and has been a limited participant since early this week. Additionally, the Falcons are dealing with cluster injuries at the linebacker position.
On the other side for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the depth at the wide receiver position could be a bit thin. Wide receiver Jalen McMillian is dealing with a hamstring injury and did not participate in practice early this week. Additionally, Trey Palmer is on concussion protocol and will more than likely be out for a short week. Lastly, the Buccaneers will be without Calijah Kancey and Antonie Winfield Jr.
Buccaneers at Falcons Preview AND Predictions
Best Bets
Thursday Night Football usually favors the home team. Being at home, on short rest, and not having to worry about travel. The injuries to the Buccaneers at the wide receiver position are a cause for concern. The Buccaneers will rely heavily on Chris Godwin and Mike Evans along with Cade Otton.
Both teams come into this game with below-average rush defenses. The Buccaneers allow 131.5 rushing yards per game, and the Falcons allow 145.5 rushing yards per game. With the injuries that both teams are dealing with, I could see a very run-heavy offense from both teams. As a result, the clock will be ticking. In a division game where both teams are familiar with each other, I believe points will be at a premium.
Best Bet: Under 44
Player Prop Best Bet
Tyler Allegier Over 34.5 Rushing Yards
As I mentioned above, Bijan Robinson is dealing with a hamstring injury which could potentially open the way for Tyler Allegier in this game. Even if Robinson suits for the game I am not sure how effective he will be. Additionally, Allegier has held his own in the backfield for the Falcons. Despite only averaging seven carries over the last three weeks, Allegier has gone over this projection in two of the last three weeks.
Furthermore, the Buccaneers rush defense is allowing 131.5 rushing yards per game on 5.0 yards per carry which is the fourth worst in the league. I would not be surprised if we see Allegier get 10+ carries in this game which would propel him to clear 35+ rushing yards. Lastly, Allegier is averaging 6.1 yards per carry thus far this season.
