Thanks to a strong performance from their quarterback Kirk Cousins, the Atlanta Falcons clinched their third win of the season in the NFL. Also because they held their nerve shortly before the end.
The Falcons won their home game in the US Football League against division rivals Tampa Bay Buccaneers 36:30 after overtime. Pass receiver KhaDarel Hodge decided the game with his touchdown just over a minute into overtime.
Career high for Cousins
Cousins not only threw four touchdown passes, but also gained a total of 509 yards in the passing game, setting a career high for the 36-year-old. In the history of the Falcons, no player had ever achieved so many passing yards in a game.
A bad pass from Cousins a good two minutes before the end ultimately had no effect. Shortly before the end it looked like a success for the guests from Florida. It was only with the last action of regular time that Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo scored a field goal to equalize and bring the game into overtime. There the Falcons won the coin toss, got the ball – and ended the game after four plays.
Atlanta draws level with Tampa
With the victory, Atlanta drew level with Tampa with three wins and two defeats, and because of the direct duel won, the Falcons also took the lead in the NFC South division for the time being. The NFL’s eight division winners will surely reach the playoffs at the end of the regular season.
