The Atlanta Falcons could have simply folded after they dug themselves a 14-point hole in the fourth quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday. After all, they had nothing more to lose. They were already out of contention for the playoffs.

But the Falcons refused to dishonor the game. They mounted a furious rally led by Kirk Cousins and Kyle Pitts, leading to the game-winning field goal of Zane Gonzalez, as they escaped, 29-28, at Raymond James Stadium.

While they will miss the playoffs for the eighth straight year, Falcons coach Raheem Morris viewed the victory over the Buccaneers as a possible catalyst for a brighter future.

“It's a stepping stone to where we want to go,” said Morris, as quoted by Falcons reporter Terrin Waack.

Cousins turned in a virtuosic perform

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