The decision to try a 51-yard field goal with just over two minutes to play in the Buccaneers’ 20-17 loss to the Falcons has led to criticism of coach Raheem Morris.
Morris also called a surprising fake punt in the fourth quarter, but Joe Henderson of the Tampa Tribune thinks the coach of the one-win Buccaneers had much to be proud of on Sunday.
The decision to dump defensive coordinator Jim Bates looked smart in light of six sacks and only 75 rushing yards allowed by the Buccaneers.
Buccaneers S Corey Lynch blocked a punt to set up a touchdown, the fifth kick that the Bucs have blocked this season.
Buccaneers QB Josh Freeman completed 20 of 29 passes for 250 yards and two touchdowns.
Said Falcons TE Tony Gonzalez, “It’s emotional. I’m a little tired physically, but emotionally it’s draining. You’re part of games like that, you’re trying so hard, your heart is pumping so hard. I’m just so glad we came out on top.”
Mark Bradley of the Atlanta Journal Constitution writes that the Falcons played with desperation on their final, game-winning drive.
Days after the Falcons brought in four kickers for workouts, K Jason Elam missed another field goal.
Falcons QB Chris Redman, seeing his first meaningful playing time in two years, threw for 243 yards and two touchdowns.
The Falcons shuffled their cornerbacks once again, but still saw them get beaten on a long touchdown by WR Antonio Bryant.
