The Atlanta Falcons are igniting hopes of a postseason run after a crucial victory in Week 12. Following a disappointing season that saw them lose five consecutive games, the Falcons faced the New Orleans Saints with a 3-7 record. The team, now managed by Raheem Morris, secured a 24-10 win, elevating their record to 4-7.
Can Falcons Challenge Buccaneers and Panthers in NFC South?
Despite the victory, the Falcons remain in a challenging position in the NFC South. They sit third in the division, behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers, who are at 6-4 and 6-5, respectively. Atlanta’s struggles were further complicated by the season-ending injury to their starting quarterback, Michael Penix Jr. In his absence, veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins stepped up and played a pivotal role in the recent win.
Key Performances
- Kirk Cousins threw for two touchdowns, showcasing his experience.
- Bijan Robinson contributed significantly with 107 scrimmage yards.
- The team played without star wide receiver Drake London, highlighting their resilience.
Atlanta’s upcoming schedule poses a mixed challenge. They will face three teams currently in playoff contention: the Buccaneers, Los Angeles Rams, and Seattle Seahawks. However, they also have matchups against teams including the Saints, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals, which they could potentially win.
After their latest victory, the Falcons’ playoff chances experienced a slight increase. Currently, they have a 1.8% probability of making the playoffs and a 1.1% chance to clinch the division title. Despite these odds, the Falcons are not giving up hope. They must capitalize on future opportunities to stay relevant in the race for the postseason.
Looking Ahead
Every game is critical for the Falcons moving forward. A winning streak could place them back in contention. If they can rally as a team and regain some momentum, they might still challenge for a playoff spot. This remains a pivotal season for the Falcons, requiring tenacity and strategic play in their final six games.
