FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The margin for error is growing smaller.
As the playoff race heats up, the Falcons (6-7) are in a tight contest in the NFC South. Atlanta held the top spot for 10 weeks before the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-6) overtook it in Week 14. The Falcons face the Las Vegas Raiders (2-11) in their next outing while the Buccaneers take on the Los Angeles Chargers (8-5).
If the Falcons win, their current 38% playoff probability, according to NFL.com, jumps up to 51%. With a loss, it plummets to 21%. The Falcons need every win they can get and at least one loss from the Buccaneers to make the postseason. So, each game will be crucial.
Here's where things stand in the NFC playoff picture as of Wednesday, Dec. 11:
NFC playoff teams
In the hunt
Potential first-round matchups
- No. 1 Detroit Lions (12-1) — bye
- No. 7 Washington Commanders (8-5) vs. No. 2 Philadelphia Eagles (11-2)
- No. 6 Green Bay Packers (9-4) vs. No. 3 Seattle Seahawks (8-5)
- No. 5 Minnesota Vikings (11-2) vs. No. 4 Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-6)
Divisional standings
NFC South
NFC North
NFC East
NFC West
