Update, Sunday afternoon: The Falcons have been eliminated from playoff contention.
The Atlanta Falcons are still just barely in the playoff race. To reach the postseason, they must win the NFC South, as there is no path to the Wild Card available for them. If you are a Falcons fan, you’ll have a few games you’ll be paying attention to as they look to improve their chances of a playoff berth.
Falcons vs. Saints
The Falcons must defeat the Saints this week to have a shot at the NFC South title. Since there is no Wild Card path for Atlanta, this is a must-win game. The Falcons were able to defeat the Saints earlier this season and enter as 3-point underdogs at DraftKings Sportsbook this week.
Buccaneers vs. Panthers
A Falcons win alone won’t get them into the playoffs, though. They will also need the Panthers to defeat the Buccaneers. This is no easy feat — the Panthers have won just two games this season. If the Bucs lose and the Falcons win, Atlanta will be the NFC South winner.