FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Falcons (8-7) are back on top of the NFC South. With two games left in the regular season, their playoff fate is in their hands.
Atlanta's playoff probability is 54%, according to NFL.com. It was 31% last week. If the Falcons win their last two games, they will claim the division title for the first time since 2016 and reach the postseason.
Up next, the Falcons face the Washington Commanders on "Sunday Night Football" in a road environment that will rival a playoff atmosphere. Every game down the stretch has been labeled a "must-win" for Atlanta and this one is no different. After that, the Falcons conclude the regular season versus the Carolina Panthers (4-11) at home.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers relinquished the NFC South lead with a loss to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 16. They face the Panthers and New Orleans Saints (5-10) in the last two weeks.
Several teams were eliminated from the playoff hunt entering Week 17. Just five NFC teams battle for the three available playoff spots. Here's a current look at the NFC playoff picture as of Wednesday, Dec. 25:
NFC playoff teams
In the hunt (playoff probability via NFL.com)
Potential first-round matchups
- No. 1 Detroit Lions (13-2) — bye
- No. 7 Washington Commanders (10-5) vs. No. 2 Philadelphia Eagles (12-3)
- No. 6 Green Bay Packers (11-4) vs. No. 3 Los Angeles Rams (9-6)
- No. 5 Minnesota Vikings (13-2) vs. No. 4 Atlanta Falcons (8-7)
Divisional standings
NFC South
NFC North
NFC East
NFC West
