Kirk Cousins threw for 276 yards and four touchdowns leading the Atlanta Falcons to a 31-26 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The win gave the Falcons sole possession of first place in the NFC South. The big strike came to Kyle Pitts who caught a 49-yard touchdown en route to a four-catch 91-yard day. Bijan Robinson had 106 total yards and a receiving touchdown. For the Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield threw for 330 yards and three touchdowns, but he also threw three interceptions. Without both Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, Cade Otton led the Tampa pass catchers with nine catches for 81 yards and two touchdowns. The Falcons host the Dallas Cowboys in week nine while the Buccaneers play the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday Night Football.

The New Orleans Saints have now lost six straight after their 26-8 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in week eight. The good news for the Saints is that Derek Carr is expected back in week nine. Spencer Rattler was not bad in this one, but he only completed 50% of his passes for 156 yards. Chris Olave did return in this one and caught eight passes for 107 yards. Alvin Kamara racked up 122 all-purpose yards in the loss. The Saints play the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

Speaking of the Panthers and losing streaks, Carolina lost their fifth straight game in week eight 28-14 to the Denver Broncos. Bryce Young returned as the starter for the Panthers and threw for 224 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. The only sensible thing for Carolina to do going forward is play Young and see if he can take strides in the right direction. Jalen Coker is a name to watch. He had four catches for 78 yards in this one.

NFC South Standings Week 8

Atlanta Falcons 5-3

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 4-4

New Orleans Saints 2-6

Carolina Panthers 1-7