Falcons Have The Edge

So here we are, with four games left in the regular season the Atlanta Falcons are sitting in prime position for a playoff run. Now I know last week I made some lofty predictions for the Dirty Birds...and of course I hope that happens...but on a realistic note the Falcons have no reason not to snatch one of the Wildcard spots in the NFC. Currently, the Falcons have the 6th and final playoff (the other going to Carolina), but let's look at the week ahead. The Dallas Cowboys, who seem to be the biggest threat to the Falcons, have a tough road game at Pittsburgh...followed by games against the Giants, Ravens, and then at Philly. America's team truly could lose all four of those...but even losing just two of them would pretty much seal the deal for Atlanta if we take care of business.

Now Atlanta does not have to run the table to get in, but key wins against New Orleans and Tampa are a must (luckily Tampa comes to the Georgia Dome for the final meeting). This season has already been a monumental success...and with a win Sunday at the Superdome...the Falcons clinch a winning season...and many critics were predicting a winless season. I realize that San Diego has not exactly been a dominant team this year (and possibly still suffering from LT's foot injury), but holding Tomlinson to 24 yards on his home turf....simply amazing. If Atlanta can go into hostile territory and shut down the league's leading passer, Drew Brees, it will pretty much wipe away the memory of the collapse last year.

After Monday, we will all have a better picture of the playoffs as Carolina and Tampa will go head-to-head on Monday Night Football. If Carolina wins, and we take care of the Bucs when they come to Atlanta, I believe we will have a legitimate shot at taking the NFC South. Why you ask? ...well Carolina must go on to face the Giants, Broncos (which seem to surprise teams with their offense randomly), and at the Saints. It will be a tough road, and the Falcons will need a lot of help, but the division can still be theirs...