FLOWERY BRANCH — Here are the five things we learned Thursday about the Falcons (6-5), who play at Tampa Bay (5-6) in a big NFC South game at 1 p.m. Sunday at Raymond James Stadium.
1. BEASLEY UPDATE: The Falcons first-round pick is a work in progress, according to defensive line coach Bryan Cox. Beasley, the eighth overall pick in the draft, hasn't had a sack since Week 3.
2. HANKERSON EXPECTED TO BE DECLARED OUT: Wide receiver Leonard Hankerson didn't practice on Thursday. He'll likely be declared out on Friday.
3. DEVIN HESTER DECISION TIME: Devin Hester said he's playing, but the coaches have to make the decision. Coach Dan Quinn sounded more upbeat, while special teams coordinator Keith Armstrong wasn't as optimistic.
4. SHANAHAN ON TURNOVERS: Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan discussed how they work on ball handling drills daily with the hopes of eliminating the turnover problem. (WATCH VIDEO BELOW)
5. THE REAL McCOY MAYBE OUT FOR SUNDAY: Tampa Bay's All-Pro defensive tackle Gerald McCoy had a hand surgery and did not practice. That would be a big break for the Falcons if he can't play. He leads the Bucs with seven sacks.
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MINNESOTA GAME COVERAGE -- Vikings 20, Falcons 10
5 things we learned from the 20-10 loss to the Vikings
What the Falcons had to say after the loss
12 comments from Dan Quinn on the Falcons' loss
Ryan goes into detail about his interceptions
White feels team got complacent after 5-0 start
Falcons rookie Coleman fumbles again
Falcons defense pulling its weight
Falcons fans jeer Ryan after his second interception
FROM THE FIRST MEETING -- TAMPA BAY GAME COVERAGE -- Bucs 23, Falcons 20 in OT
5 things we learned in the Falcons' 23-20 loss to the Bucs
How the Falcons lost to the Bucs in OT
10 comments from Dan Quinn after the loss to the Bucs
Adams disagreed with overtime pass interference call
Matt Ryan's miscues help to gift the Bucs' 20 points
QUOTEBOARD: What the Falcons were saying after the 23-20 loss to the Bucs
Tampa Bay QB Jameis Winston bests his role model: 'Mr. Ryan'
Falcons defense holds up, but forces no turnovers
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