Falcons vs. Buccaneers result: Live updates, game stats, highlights, where to watch Thursday Night Football

The Atlanta Falcons (2-2) host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the “Thursday Night Football” NFC South showdown. With a tight division race looming, this game could have big playoff implications going forward. The winner will take first place in the division for now.

The Falcons earned a narrow division win over the New Orleans Saints, while the Bucs earned a dominant win over the Philadelphia Eagles.

Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield is signed to his new contract and boasts the league's sixth-most passing yards (984) and second-most passing touchdowns (eight) in the first month, with the former No. 1 pick throwing just two interceptions so far this season. 1 selection.

Tampa Bay has a strong pass rush (recording six sacks last week) and solid pass defense, but will still be without safety Antoine Winfield Jr., who is out again with a foot injury

The Falcons also have a strong defense led by veteran cornerbacks AJ Terrell Jr. and linebacker Matthew Judon. Meanwhile, Kirk Cousins, playing in his first games after returning from an Achilles tendon injury, didn't have as much success as Mayfield this season, finishing 24th in quarterback rating (43.0).

Tampa Bay is 31-30 against Atlanta, which has a chance to equalize.

Here's how to watch

Date: Thursday, Oct. 3 | Time: 8:15 p.m. ET
Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, Georgia)
Streaming: Prime Video
Opportunities: Buccaneers +2.5, O/U 44.5

forecast

I think the Buccaneers will win this game in another big game for Baker Mayfield and Chris Godwin. Selection: Tampa Bay 31, Atlanta 21