Baker Mayfield, Bucs Criticized by NFL Fans After Collapse in Loss to Cousins, Falcons

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' playoff hopes took a hit on Thursday after a late collapse against the Atlanta Falcons.

The Bucs led by two touchdowns heading into the final 10 minutes of the game, but gave up a pair of touchdowns and a game-winning 42-yard field goal to lose 29-28.

After the loss, fans ripped Tampa Bay on social media.

The Buccaneers' defense had plenty of chances to get off the field on the final drive. On the second play of the drive, they forced a fumble couldn't land on it. A few plays later, the Falcons faced a third-and-28 and then a fourth-and-14, but managed to convert.

Ultimately, Tampa Bay couldn't keep Atlanta out of field goal range, and the Bucs dropped their fifth game out of their last six.

What makes the loss sting for Tampa Bay fans even more is the fact that Mike Evans shined in his return from injury, collecting 132 receiving yards. The Falcons also had nothing to play for since they're out of playoff contention, which just adds more salt to the wound.

While Atlanta fans are likely happy to play spoiler, the fans celebrating the most on Thursday reside in Charlotte. With the loss for the Bucs, the Carolina Panthers moved into first place in the division and are one step closer to their first NFC North title since 2015.

The Buccaneers and Panthers will face off next Sunday.