We are on the edge of our seats as we await the start of the new season here with the 2025 version of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The team will kick off their campaign on the road against a division rival, and arguably the toughest team in the NFC South, the Atlanta Falcons.
What better way to get to know a unique opponent than to go behind enemy lines and discuss the matchup with Falcons Wire?
We spoke to Mat Urben ,who is the managing editor for Falcons Wire. He provided us with some great insight into a tough matchup with the Falcons that lies ahead for the Bucs, where they may cause problems and where the Bucs are vulnerable.
Q: It is year one of the Michael Penix Jr. era in Atlanta. What do you expect the offense to look like after a full offseason of him preparing to be the starter?
Penix has spoken with Falcons legends, including Matt Ryan and Michael Vick, over the offseason to learn what it takes to be a leader. The second-year quarterback is extremely poised and never seems to be phased by the moment. The offense should be more explosive with Penix under center this season. The team averaged 32 points per game in his three starts last season. Penix has an aggressive style and likes to push the ball down the field, so expect plenty of big plays.
Q: Everyone knows about Bijan Robinson and Drake Londong being established playmakers, but is this FINALLY the year Bucs fans have to take into account Kyle Pitts?
Pitts has been wildly inconsistent, but he’s still just 24 years old (younger than Michael Penix Jr.) and hasn’t had consistent quarterback play for much of his time in Atlanta. Whether it was Desmond Ridder, Taylor Heinicke or Marcus Mariota, these signal-callers left much to be desired. Penix and Pitts have been working out together all offseason to build chemistry. With that said, the Falcons have two potential superstars in Drake London and Bijan Robinson, both of whom get the ball frequently. While he may not top 1,000 receiving yards, I expect Pitts to put up much better numbers with Penix at QB.
Q: Building the defense seemed to be the theme of the offseason for Atlanta, which new face on that side of the ball presents the biggest obstacle for the Bucs?
The Falcons could have as many as four rookie starters on defense. Their two first-round picks, Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., are expected to help restore what has been an underwhelming pass rush. Third-round pick Xavier Watts will start next to Jessie Bates at safety and fourth-rounder Billy Bowman won the starting nickel job out of camp. As for the biggest challenge, that would go to Pearce. The former Tennessee standout has dominated in practice, and while he may not be listed as a starter, Pearce will be heavily featured.
Q: Who is the one x-factor that Bucs fans may be dismissing from the Falcons in 2025?
Darnell Mooney has quietly established himself as a quality No. 2 wide receiver behind Drake London. Last season, Mooney nearly topped 1,000 receiving yards despite missing the final game of the year. During his two games against the Buccaneers, Mooney recorded 13 total catches for 191 receiving yards and three touchdowns. His speed and route-running ability make him a perfect complement to the bigger, more physical London.
Q: What is your prediction for the game?
This one could go either way. The Buccaneers are the class of the NFC South, but the Falcons had their number in 2024. I think Atlanta’s new-look defense could struggle against Tampa Bay’s offense, however, the Bucs’ change at offensive coordinator leaves some uncertainty. I think the Falcons will be fired up for the start of the Michael Penix Jr. era, and will pull off a 24-21 victory over the Bucs in Week 1.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs Wire Behind Enemy Lines: Week 1 Q&A with Falcons Wire
Reporting by Andrew Harbaugh, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
