Atlanta Falcons vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers Picks and Predictions September 7th 2025

Tampa Bay Looks to Extend Division Reign

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers begin their 2025 campaign on Sunday in Atlanta, opening against the same Falcons team that swept them a year ago. Despite those setbacks, Tampa Bay rallied to win its fourth straight NFC South crown and has remained the team to beat since 2021.

With Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans returning as the offensive core, the Buccaneers once again enter as favorites to repeat as division champions. They will also feature rookie running back Bucky Irving in the starting lineup after he impressed in camp. Last season, the offense ranked fourth in the NFL at 29.5 points per game, and Tampa Bay hopes to carry that momentum into the new year. Fans and bettors can stay updated with all NFL previews before kickoff.

Falcons Banking on Michael Penix Jr.

Atlanta is eager to change the narrative after another disappointing season that ended with six losses in its final eight games and no playoff appearance for the seventh straight year. The team made headlines by paying Kirk Cousins starter money to serve as a backup, while 2024 first-round pick Michael Penix Jr. assumes the role as starter after a promising rookie finish.

Penix has had a full offseason to prepare, and his confidence is clear heading into Week 1. “I feel ready. I’m ready to go,” Penix said. “We’re going to put pride in taking care of the ball and going out there and scoring points.” For bettors following this matchup, see the latest NFL picks and insights on how Penix’s development could shift the Falcons’ outlook.

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Coaching Perspectives and Rivalry Heat

Tampa Bay head coach Todd Bowles enters his fourth season with a 27-24 record. He emphasized that last season’s sweep by Atlanta will not affect how his team approaches this year. “Last year doesn’t factor into this year, wins or losses. We’re not going to recap the season from last year. It’s one ballgame, it’ll give us a leg up in the division,” Bowles explained.

Falcons coach Raheem Morris, in the second year of his second stint leading the team, is focused on proving Atlanta can contend with the NFC South’s best. “You talk about Baker, the knowledge he has, the amount of experience he has. Mike Evans, if you put him in a one-on-one situation, he can make anybody pay for it,” Morris said. Fans can dive deeper into both teams’ rosters on the NFL teams page

Injuries Could Shape the Outcome

The Buccaneers enter the opener with several notable injuries. Wide receiver Chris Godwin remains sidelined after his ankle injury, while Pro Bowl tackle Tristan Wirfs is recovering from knee surgery. On defense, Vita Vea, Christian Izien, and Haason Reddick are all question marks.

Atlanta has health concerns of its own, with safety DeMarcco Hellams and offensive lineman Jack Nelson missing practice. Wide receiver Darnell Mooney and cornerback Clark Phillips III were limited participants. Tracking injury updates is vital for those following NFL odds ahead of Sunday’s matchup.

Betting Outlook and Division Stakes

This Week 1 game carries added weight as an early measuring stick in the NFC South. For Atlanta, a win would represent both a statement of progress and a chance to put pressure on the defending champs. For Tampa Bay, it’s about maintaining their grip on the division and proving last year’s losses to the Falcons were an anomaly.

Sports bettors can review the latest NFL expert betting guide and even buy picks from top analysts to gain an edge. For those monitoring handicappers’ records, the leaderboard highlights who is delivering results going into the new season.