Atlanta tight end Kyle Pitts etched his name in NFL history with three touchdown receptions, powering a fourth-quarter comeback from a 14-point deficit to stun the Buccaneers 29-28 on a 43-yard field goal as time expired. The win improved the Falcons to 5-9 while dropping Tampa Bay to 7-7, costing them the NFC South lead.
In a thrilling Week 15 NFC South clash, the Falcons overcame Tampa Bay's 28-14 fourth-quarter surge, sparked by Baker Mayfield touchdown passes to Devin Culp and Chris Godwin Jr.
Kirk Cousins, in his fourth straight start amid injuries, engineered the rally with 373 passing yards and his 32nd career fourth-quarter comeback. Running back Bijan Robinson scored to close the gap, then Pitts—entering with just one TD this season—hauled in the go-ahead third touchdown on 11 catches for 166 yards, tying the game.
Cousins shook off a fumble and penalty on the final drive, hitting Pitts and David Sills V to set up Zane Gonzalez's winner.
Pitts' feat marks only the eighth three-TD game by a tight end in NFL history. Falcons coach Raheem Morris praised the resilience: "We found a way."
Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles vented postgame: "It's inexcusable. You've got to care enough where it hurts." Tampa Bay, losers of five of six, must beat Carolina twice to reclaim the division atop, where the Panthers sit at 7-6.
This Falcons spoiler keeps faint hopes alive while intensifying the NFC South playoff race.