NFL Preview: Falcons At Buccaneers
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David Dermer/Diamond Images/Getty Images(TAMPA) — The Atlanta Falcons (9-1) will travel to Raymond James Stadium to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-4) on Sunday.
The Falcons are coming off a close 23-19 win over the Cardinals last Sunday, which featured a career-worst five interceptions by quarterback Matt Ryan. The Buccaneers are coming off an exciting overtime win over the Panthers.
Tampa quarterback Josh Freeman is a big reason for his team’s success this season. Freeman has posted a 106.1 passer rating and an NFL-best 8.58 yards per attempt since Oct. 1.
“We just have to continue doing what we’re doing as far as starting fast and taking the extra time throughout the week to get prepared with the opening script,” said Freeman.
Tampa Bay’s defense is the NFL’s best against the run (81.8 yards per game) and worst against the pass (312.6) and will have to stop a talented receiving core of Atlanta’s.
“They’re very talented, Matt Ryan’s an excellent quarterback,” said Tampa head coach Greg Schiano. “Their scheme and coaching is very precise and efficient, they don’t make a lot of mistakes.”
Matt Ryan has thrown 20 touchdowns with 3,072 yards of offense and has a passer rating of 94.8.
“Every time we’ve played them, it’s been a tough physical game,” said Ryan. “I’ve been impressed with their effort.”
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