The 2025 NFL season kicks off this Sunday, and the NFC South immediately jumps into action as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers travel to Atlanta to face the Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Life Without Tristan Wirfs: Bucs Offensive Line Under Pressure
That puts extra responsibility on veteran wideout Mike Evans and rookie Emeka Egbuka to step up in what could be a tighter offensive game plan than usual. How the Bucs adjust their protection schemes and play-calling without Wirfs will be a deciding factor Sunday.
Falcons Roll with Penix, Scramble to Fix the O-Line
The Falcons are starting a new chapter under center, handing the offense to rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who will make his season debut against a rival. Penix brings high upside, especially with weapons like Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Kyle Pitts at his disposal. However, Atlanta’s offensive line is already a concern. Right tackle Kaleb McGary is dealing with an injury and will likely miss not only the opener but the season, and backup Storm Norton is also unavailable. That leaves Elijah Wilkinson, a versatile but temporary solution, to hold down the edge, far from ideal against a Bucs front that can get after the quarterback.
The Falcons have addressed their defensive shortcomings with offseason additions like Leonard Floyd and rookies Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. Look for them to test Tampa Bay’s compromised offensive line early and often. But for Atlanta’s offense, much will depend on Penix’s poise under pressure.
Early Division Stakes: Rivals Ready to Battle
This isn’t just another season opener; it’s a clash between long-standing NFC South rivals with postseason aspirations. The Buccaneers, winners of four straight division titles, are looking to cement their dominance under head coach Todd Bowles. Meanwhile, the Falcons are a popular breakout pick to challenge for the crown, and a Week 1 win would be a statement. Oddsmakers have the Bucs as slight favorites, with the line hovering around -2.5, but recent history suggests a tight game. Last season, the Falcons swept the Bucs in two close games, and Tampa will look for revenge.
Both offenses are explosive, both defenses are under scrutiny, and both teams are hungry. Expect a high-scoring affair where the trenches and maybe one key turnover could decide the outcome.
