Kirk Cousins, Kyle Pitts connect for 36-yard Falcons TD

TAMPA — The Atlanta Falcons had a recovered fumble and a big fourth-down conversion for a touchdown in the opening minutes of their game Sunday against the division rival Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

THAT’S OUR TIGHT END 😤#NationalTightEndsDay

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— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) October 27, 2024

Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins lofted a pass over the defense to tight end Kyle Pitts on fourth down for a 36-yard touchdown with 12:52 left in the first quarter. A flag was down on the play, but it was defensive holding on the Bucs, and the Falcons declined. The Falcons took a 7-0 lead with a Younghoe Koo extra point.

It was Pitts’ first touchdown catch since Week 1. He has come on in recent weeks with 17 receptions over the past three games. and he got off to a big start in Week 8.

The Falcons got possession of the ball when Bucs running back Rachaad White fumbled on the second snap of the game. Atlanta standout safety Jessie Bates III punched the ball out and then recovered it, Bates’ third forced fumble of the season — all against Tampa Bay.