The Atlanta Falcons, already eliminated from the playoffs, celebrate a comeback victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Led by an outstanding Kyle Pitts, the Atlanta Falcons defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 29-28 in the Thursday Night Game on Week 15.

Pitts recorded 166 receiving yards and three touchdowns on eleven catches, all career highs for the tight end, who is still playing for a new contract in the NFL.

Kirk Cousins also delivered a strong performance: in addition to the aforementioned three touchdowns, he racked up 373 passing yards on 30 completed passes and a passer rating of 117, including a game-winning drive in the final seconds. Kicker Zane Gonzalez sank the field goal to seal the victory.

Bijan Robinson finished with 93 rushing yards and one touchdown, plus 82 receiving yards. In four of the last five games, he has gained over 100 scrimmage yards, and over 150 for the fifth time overall. The only downside: with 19 penalties accepted, the Falcons set an inglorious franchise record. The NFL record stands at 23 from 2016.

Despite Evans’ comeback: Buccaneers face playoff elimination

For their part, the Buccaneers squandered a huge opportunity to maintain and extend their lead in the NFC South with this avoidable defeat. With a 7-7 record, the Carolina Panthers (7-6) are now ahead of Tampa Bay and could finally overtake them with a win on Sunday.

Baker Mayfield delivered a rather discreet performance with 277 passing yards and 56 percent accuracy despite two touchdowns, throwing an interception in the fourth quarter.

The Bucs’ best receiver was returnee Mike Evans, who was virtually unstoppable with 132 yards on six catches. Bucky Irving was the best runner with 60 yards. With that, Tampa Bay now has to keep its fingers crossed for the New Orleans Saints, who play the Panthers on Sunday, to remain in first place in the NFC South. In Week 16, the Bucs travel to those very Panthers, while the Falcons travel to the Arizona Cardinals.