Buccaneers emerge victorious in a thrilling 23-20 match-up, fueled by two touchdown receptions by Egbuka, their rookie standout, against Penix and the Falcons

In a tightly contested matchup, the Atlanta Falcons fell just short against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with the final score reading 24-20 in favour of the home team.

Despite Bijan Robinson's impressive performance as a receiver, amassing six catches for 100 yards and a 50-yard touchdown, the Falcons struggled to establish a consistent running game, managing only 69 yards on the ground.

Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. completed 27 of 42 passes for 298 yards and a touchdown, but a crucial fourth-and-1 run with Robinson at the Tampa Bay 47 failed to convert, proving costly for the Falcons.

On the other side, Baker Mayfield led the Buccaneers' offense, completing 17 of 32 passes for 167 yards, three touchdowns, and a single interception. A key moment came when Tampa Bay converted a fourth-and-1 on a 6-yard pass from Mayfield to Mike Evans, leading to a field goal.

The Buccaneers' defense was relentless, holding the Falcons' offense in check throughout the game. Notable plays included Vita Vea and Greg Gaines being called for roughing-the-passer penalties, extending Atlanta's drive.

The Falcons had two successful challenges overturning calls during the game, but it wasn't enough to secure the victory. A missed extra point after Egbuka's touchdown by Chase McLaughlin gave the Falcons a chance to force overtime, but they ultimately came up short.

The Buccaneers will visit Houston on Sept. 15 for a Monday night game, while the Falcons will travel to Minnesota next Sunday night.

The Buccaneers were without Benjamin Morrison, who was inactive for the game, and Jamal Agnew, who was listed as questionable with a groin injury in the second quarter for the Falcons. The Tampa Bay defender who will miss the next game against Houston is yet to be named.

Emeka Egbuka had a standout performance for the Buccaneers, catching a 30-yard touchdown pass on a fourth-down attempt and a go-ahead 25-yard touchdown pass with 59 seconds remaining, securing the victory for Tampa Bay.