Falcons Face Panthers in Final Push for NFC South Title

Atlanta must win and rely on a Buccaneers loss to secure their first playoff berth since 2017.

The Atlanta Falcons (8-8) need a victory over the Carolina Panthers (4-12) and a Tampa Bay Buccaneers loss to claim the NFC South title and a playoff spot.
Rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will make his third start for Atlanta after replacing veteran Kirk Cousins, showing promise despite limited experience.
Carolina quarterback Bryce Young has improved in recent weeks, recording four total touchdowns in his last two games, but the Panthers have struggled overall this season.
The Falcons' defense has been strong late in the season, with at least three sacks in their last five games, while Carolina's injury-depleted secondary has been vulnerable to opposing quarterbacks.
Atlanta's Bijan Robinson, coming off back-to-back games with two rushing touchdowns, will look to exploit a Panthers defense that has allowed the most points in the NFL this season.