The NFL’s 2025 season is set to kick off with a fierce NFC South rivalry as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers travel to Atlanta to face the Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday, September 7. Both teams are entering the opener with fresh ambitions and plenty of storylines, and fans are buzzing with anticipation for a matchup that could set the tone for the division race.
Set for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff, the game will be broadcast on FOX, with in-market streaming available via Fubo for those who prefer to catch the action online. For the die-hard supporters eager to experience the energy live, tickets are still up for grabs, starting at $88—a solid deal for what promises to be a high-stakes clash between two of the South’s most competitive squads.
The Buccaneers are coming off a remarkable run, having clinched the NFC South title for four consecutive seasons. Now, they’re eyeing a fifth straight crown, a feat that would further cement their dominance in the division. But the Falcons, hungry to flip the script, have their sights set on spoiling Tampa Bay’s plans and making a statement of their own.
Atlanta enters the season with second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. at the helm of the offense. Penix, who showed flashes of brilliance as a rookie, is now tasked with leading a Falcons unit that’s looking to build on last year’s momentum. And what momentum it was—in 2024, the Falcons took both games against the Buccaneers, including a dramatic overtime victory that left fans on the edge of their seats. Can Penix and company conjure up more magic this time around?
"The Bucs are always a tough out, but we’re ready for the challenge," said a Falcons team spokesperson earlier this week, echoing the confident mood in Atlanta’s camp. The Falcons’ faithful are hoping that their team’s recent success against Tampa Bay is a sign of things to come, especially with Penix gaining experience and poise under center.
On the other side, Tampa Bay’s offense has been nothing short of electric. The Buccaneers averaged a sizzling 29.5 points per game in 2024, outpacing the 24.9 points per game Atlanta allowed. That offensive firepower was fueled by a unit that racked up 399.6 yards per contest, a full 54.4 yards more than the Falcons’ defense typically surrendered. With 6.4 yards per play, the Bucs were a nightmare for opposing defenses, and they’ll look to keep the pedal down in Atlanta.
Defensively, Tampa Bay held opponents to 341.8 yards per game last year, 28.0 fewer than the 369.8 yards the Falcons’ offense generated. Atlanta’s attack was no slouch, averaging 22.9 points per game—almost identical to the 22.6 points per game the Buccaneers conceded. The numbers suggest a tightly contested battle, with both teams boasting strengths that could tip the scales.
But no Week 1 showdown would be complete without a close look at the injury reports, and both squads are dealing with their share of bumps and bruises. For the Buccaneers, running back Sean Tucker, defensive back Josh Hayes, and tight end Cade Otton all participated fully in practice despite recent hand, ankle, and groin issues, respectively. Cornerback Benjamin Morrison was limited due to a quad injury, while key players like offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs (knee), nose tackle Vita Vea (foot), safety Christian Izien (oblique), wide receiver Chris Godwin (ankle), and star receiver Mike Evans (rest) did not participate in the latest session. The absence of Wirfs and Vea, in particular, could loom large if they’re unable to suit up on Sunday.
Atlanta, meanwhile, will be without offensive lineman Jack Nelson (calf) and safety DeMarcco Hellams (hamstring), both ruled out for the opener. Cornerback Clark Phillips III was a full participant with a rib issue, while wide receiver Darnell Mooney is listed as questionable with a shoulder injury. Several other Falcons, including defensive end Leonard Floyd, offensive tackle Jake Matthews, and wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud, were limited or sat out due to rest. Cornerback A.J. Terrell also saw limited action in practice as he manages his workload heading into the season.
The matchup also comes with significant implications for the division. The Buccaneers are eager to extend their reign atop the NFC South, but the Falcons—especially after sweeping last year’s season series—see an opportunity to shift the balance of power. With Penix growing into his leadership role and the home crowd behind them, Atlanta’s confidence is palpable.
"We know what’s at stake," said a Falcons assistant coach, reflecting on the team’s preparation. "It’s a new year, but our goals haven’t changed. We want to win the South, and it starts with beating Tampa Bay." That sentiment is echoed in the city, where excitement for the season opener is reaching a fever pitch.
For the Buccaneers, the focus remains on consistency and execution. With a high-octane offense and a defense capable of making big stops, Tampa Bay enters the game as a slight favorite according to oddsmakers. The spread currently sits at Tampa Bay -1.5, with a total over/under of 47.5 points—numbers that suggest a shootout could be in the cards.
Fans looking to catch the game have plenty of options. Whether tuning in on FOX, streaming through Fubo, or grabbing a last-minute ticket to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the anticipation is sky-high. The rivalry, fueled by last season’s close contests and the stakes of a division opener, promises fireworks from the opening whistle.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, both teams are making final preparations. The Falcons, energized by the promise of a new era under Penix, are determined to defend home turf and send a message to the rest of the league. The Buccaneers, with their eyes on a fifth straight division crown, are equally motivated to start their campaign with a statement win.
With so much on the line and both squads boasting talent on both sides of the ball, Sunday’s showdown is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing games of the NFL’s opening weekend. Will the Buccaneers’ offensive juggernaut overpower Atlanta, or will the Falcons’ rising star at quarterback and home-field advantage prove decisive?
One thing’s for sure: when the Buccaneers and Falcons square off this Sunday, fans can expect a hard-fought battle that could echo throughout the rest of the season. With kickoff approaching, all eyes are on Mercedes-Benz Stadium as the NFC South’s top contenders write the first chapter of their 2025 story.