With the huge win over division-rival New Orleans on Thursday night, the 11-1 Falcons can clinch a playoff spot - and even the NFC South crown - pending the result of Sunday's game between Denver and Tampa Bay.
The Falcons could have clinched with a Seahawks loss or tie, but Seattle beat Chicago in overtime 23-17.
The Falcons can clinch the NFC South crown if the Buccaneers (6-5) lose or tie in their 4:05 p.m. road tilt against the Broncos (8-3). A division title guarantees the Falcons one of the top four seeds in the NFC and at least one home playoff game.
With their NFC-leading 11-1 record, Atlanta has the inside track in the race for the No. 1 or No. 2 seed. The top two playoff seeds in each conference receive a Wild Card round bye and host a divisional round game. Chasing Atlanta are division-leaders San Francisco (8-2-1), Chicago (8-4) and New York (7-4).
