Quarterbacks: Chris Simms threw two interceptions that resulted in 10 points for the Falcons, but he was cool down the stretch and consistently moved the offense into scoring position. His numbers weren't great, but this kid finds a way to win games and make big plays. He got a little aggressive with some of his throws early but settled down and played within the system.

Running backs: Cadillac Williams ran 31 times, and the 150 yards he produced did not come easy. Most of those yards came on runs into the line and after contact with defenders. Michael Pittman did a splendid job of spelling Williams, gaining 17 yards on four carries and 17 more on four pass receptions. FBs Mike Alstott and Jameel Cook combined for five touches and two touchdowns, and were solid blocking.

Receivers: Joey Galloway and TE Alex Smith led the parade of pass catchers with eight receptions each. Both made several key third-down plays and did an excellent job of separating themselves from defenders. Michael Clayton was on his way to a comeback game until he got hurt. Ike Hilliard had a drop that nearly proved costly.

Offensive line: This group gave up two sacks - not bad considering the Falcons blitzed a lot. After a difficult outing last week, these guys bounced back and played aggressively. They got the better of the Falcons' defense late, with Williams gaining 80 of his 150 yards in the fourth quarter and overtime. RT Kenyatta Walker showed a lot of jam by battling through an ankle injury.

Defensive line: Chris Hovan continues to stand out, particularly as a run stopper. He and Greg Spires led the group with five tackles and were in on almost every play. Dewayne White did an excellent job in his reserve role, forcing a fumble and recording four tackles. Simeon Rice turned in one of his better games, with four tackles and two key sacks. Anthony McFarland battled hard through a sore hamstring.

Linebackers: These guys did an excellent job of filling and pursuing against the run, especially later in the game. Their tackling technique was excellent. When they got to a runner, they stopped him. The group was solid in coverage, where Derrick Brooks knocked down a pass. Brooks also had a 1-yard sack and a unit-leading eight tackles. Shelton Quarles had seven tackles and Ryan Nece six.

Secondary: Brian Kelly earned a tough but warranted pass interference call that set up one Falcons score, and Ronde Barber got beat on a jump-ball play that set up another. Overall, though, both players were solid. Barber's 13 tackles were a team-high. Dexter Jackson recorded a nasty sack of Michael Vick and a pass breakup to go with two tackles. Jermaine Phillips had four tackles.

Special teams: Matt Bryant missed one game-winning field-goal attempt but also made one. Dewayne White turned in what may have been the game's biggest play when he blocked PK Todd Peterson's potential game-winning field-goal try, but he might not have had to had Edell Shepherd not fumbled away the overtime kickoff. This group also had its usual array of crippling penalties.

Coaching: In prepping for a team that is a little light on defense, Coach Jon Gruden wisely put together a game plan that called for Cadillac Williams to run mostly between the tackles. That helped wear down the Falcons' defenders and the fatigue showed late. Defensively the Bucs gave up few big plays and did an excellent job containing Vick. Give the staff credit for keeping the players focused after the New England loss.