TAMPA, Fla. -- A few thoughts on the Atlanta Falcons' 27-17 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium:
What it means: The Falcons finally got the monkey off their back while breaking a five-game losing streak and winning their first road game of the season. They are now 3-6 overall and 3-0 in the NFC South. Yes, they are undefeated in division play, so there's still some hope of a major turnaround.
Stock watch: The stock of running back Steven Jackson went up when the 31-year-old broke off a 27-yard run to set up a critical 33-yard field goal by Matt Bryant in the fourth quarter. Jackson ran hard all day and had his best output of the season with 81 rushing yards and a touchdown on 16 carries.
On the defensive: It wasn't a great defensive effort by the Falcons, but it was solid. They came up with some key turnovers, including Dwight Lowery's interception in the final minutes that all but sealed the victory, with fellow safety Kemal Ishmael adding one in the final seconds. Stansly Maponga recovered a fumble forced by Malliciah Goodman. And Osi Umenyiora showed some nice pressure throughout the day, coming up with one sack of his own and another he shared with Kroy Biermann. Biermann also recorded a solo sack, as did Jonathan Babineaux.
Game ball: I have to give this one to Bryant. He had four field goals, including two from 40-plus yards and the aforementioned 33-yarder. Kickers don't always get appreciated, but they should be after scoring 12 points on field goals.
What's next: The Falcons have a chance to string together consecutive NFC South road wins when they travel to Carolina next Sunday. The last time the teams met, the Panthers sacked Ryan nine times. But Carolina won't have Greg Hardy this time around.
