In a play not seen often enough in the NFL these days, Falcons tight end Levine Toilolo was stripped of the football on a reception during the first quarter. The Buccaneers’ defensive back Mark Barron scooped up the fumble, but Falcons defensive back Devin Hester was able to punch the ball free and recover the fumble, returning possession back to Atlanta on the very same play.
The Falcons would score on the ensuing offensive drive to extend their lead early inside the Georgia Dome, 14-0.