Many Bucs fans are now eyeing the playoffs, thanks to their favorable remaining schedule and the Falcons’ rough loss to the Saints on Sunday.
Now there’s an added twist.
Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins, who has been underwhelming this season except against the Bucs, left the Saints game with injuries to his throwing shoulder and elbow. This is concerning for a 36-year-old quarterback.
It’s uncertain whether Cousins will be able to play on Sunday in Denver—or if he’ll be at full capacity. The Falcons’ backup is rookie first-round pick Michael Penix.
Some fans might argue that Penix could perform as well or better than Cousins, but that’s a big question mark. He hasn’t had regular-season playing time, and preseason performance doesn’t offer much assurance.
Although the Bucs are two games behind Atlanta, who also holds the tiebreaker advantage, Tampa Bay’s remaining schedule is much easier than Atlanta’s. The Falcons’ next three games are at Denver, at home against the Chargers, and on the road against Minnesota.
If the Bucs can play close to average defense, December could turn out to be very interesting.
