NFL: Takeaways From Week One In The NFC South

Here are two takeaways for each NFC South team following Week 1.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Emeka Egbuka Has Arrived

The first-round rookie receiver impressed all offseason and didn’t disappoint in Week 1. He snagged four passes for 67 yards and two TDs, including the game-winning score in the fourth quarter against the rival Falcons. Egbuka has a stranglehold on Tampa Bay’s WR2 slot and will hold onto that role even after the return of Chris Godwin.

The Bucs Miss Wirfs

The Tampa Bay franchise left tackle did not play in Week 1 and is still recovering from offseason knee surgery. And the offensive line was not the same without him: QB Baker Mayfield was only sacked one time, but was pressured constantly and completed just 17 of 32 pass attempts as a result. The Buccaneers will need Wirfs healthy and in the lineup to be at their best.

Atlanta Falcons: Penix The Playmaker

The Falcons might have lost at home to the Buccaneers, which was obviously a disappointing result. However, QB Michael Penix Jr. did everything in his power to help them win it. The young lefty passed for 298 yards and a score while also making some huge plays with his legs.

It Might Be Time For A New Kicker

Two years ago, Younghoe Koo was regarded as one of the league’s best kickers. However, his 73.5% field goal accuracy in 2024 was the lowest he posted in a full season, and his first game in 2025 wasn’t so hot either. He hit the post on a 36-yard field goal (which luckily still went through) and missed a 44-yarder to send the game to overtime.

Carolina Panthers: Offense Not On Same Page

Against the Jaguars in Week 1, the Panthers appeared to have a juicy matchup to score some points. However, in an incredibly disappointing performance, Carolina mustered just 10 points in a double-digit loss. QB Bryce Young appeared to be flummoxed by the Jacksonville defense, completing just 51% of his passes and throwing one touchdown against two interceptions.   

Offseason Acquisitions Won’t Save The Defense

The Panthers’ defense also left much to be desired. The team surrendered 26 points and a whopping 200 rushing yards despite spending big money on defense in free agency. It’s just Week 1, so there’s no need to overreact. But Carolina still has a long way to go before being a playoff contender.

Saints: Rattler’s Composure A Good Sign

Saints QB Spencer Rattler didn’t blow anyone away with his performance in Week 1. He completed less than 60% of his passes and didn’t throw a touchdown pass. However, his composure has clearly improved from last season. Rattler was going through his progressions and being more careful with the football, both of which are good signs.

Messy Start To The Kellen Moore Era

Under new head coach Kellen Moore, the Saints were hoping to develop a clean, offensive-minded style of play. Unfortunately, their first game with Moore at the helm was anything but clean. New Orleans committed 13 penalties for 89 yards, many of them coming on simple pre-snap errors. With an already weak roster, the Saints cannot afford to make those types of mistakes so frequently.