Falcons Roundtable: Can Atlanta Keep Momentum Going Against Buccaneers?
Oct 31, 2026 12:36 AM

The Atlanta Falcons look to build on their upset of the San Francisco 49ers when they face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Falcons Roundtable discusses Michael Penix Jr.'s franchise quarterback potential, NFL trade deadline needs, stopping Baker Mayfield and predictions for the NFC South showdown.

The Atlanta Falcons are flying high after their big victory over the recently unbeaten San Francisco 49ers last weekend. They will look to keep the winning ways alive as they will face their NFC South rival, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, on the road. 

On this week's Falcons Roundtable, the staff discussed what it'll take for Atlanta to start a winning streak as the trade deadline approaches. 

What impressed you the most about Atlanta's big win against San Francisco? 

Michael Brauner: The most impressive thing was being able to force four turnovers on a 49ers offense which had been so crisp and clean headed into this week. Clearly, Atlanta made Brock Purdy uncomfortable, and that is something which is going to keep carrying over.

Christian Rauh: The Falcons' offensive line deserves a ton of credit. Although they couldn't get the running game going, they found a way to win against a very tough 49ers defense. Penix wasn't sacked once. 

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Do you believe Michael Penix Jr. has what it takes to be seen as the Falcons' franchise quarterback? 

Michael Brauner: If you are strictly evaluating play on the field, he is certainly getting there. I think Penix has shown a lot and is getting better. The durability concerns, though, are very real to me when talking about committing long term. If he can play at a high level the rest of this year and not get hurt, I think you can have the conversation.

Christian Rauh: He definitely changes how this offense performs in a vastly positive way when he's on the field. The stars around him believe in him, and since they're locked up long term, that might be the most important factor that's not discussed. I think he is the Falcons' franchise QB. 

The trade deadline is getting closer, and trades are starting to happen. What do you want the Falcons to do? 

Michael Brauner: I wouldn't mind seeing the Falcons make another move to help the wide receiver room. A proven veteran who can supplement things in the passing game would be helpful.

Christian Rauh: I second that motion. I would like to see another weapon for Penix as they look to break this playoff drought. 

How does Atlanta move to .500 and take down the Buccaneers on the road? 

Michael Brauner: Make Baker Mayfield uncomfortable. Don't turn the ball over. Run the ball early and often. Atlanta is the better team here. Time to go prove it.

Christian Rauh: The winning formula last week was getting their opponents to turn the football over. Adding pressure to Baker Mayfield and making him do the same is the perfect way to get their second straight win. 

Score prediction for Sunday?

Michael Brauner: Falcons 34, Buccaneers 23

Christian Rauh: Falcons 31, Buccaneers 27

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