Buccaneers Edge Falcons 23-20 With Rookie TD, Mayfield Comeback

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured a hard-fought 23-20 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in their 2025 season opener, highlighted by rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka's two touchdowns, including a decisive 25-yard catch from quarterback Baker Mayfield with under a minute remaining. Mayfield completed 17 of 32 passes for 167 yards and three touchdowns, also contributing 39 rushing yards, demonstrating poise despite the Falcons' defensive focus on star receiver Mike Evans. The Buccaneers overcame a challenging game where their kicking game faltered, with kicker Chase McLaughlin missing an extra point and a field goal, yet capitalizing on a roughing-the-passer penalty to extend their final drive. Tampa Bay's defense withstood a late Falcons drive, as Younghoe Koo missed a 44-yard field goal attempt with two seconds left, sealing the win. This victory marked an improvement from the prior season when the Bucs struggled in close games, flipping the script on their previous 3-6 record in one-score contests. Head coach Todd Bowles and Mayfield praised Egbuka's impressive debut and the team's resilience in tight moments, signaling a promising start to the new season.