ATL Standard

The Atlanta Falcons are currently leading the NFC South with a 6-3 record and remain undefeated in divisional play. As they prepare for an upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints, who have faced seven consecutive losses, significant changes have occurred within the division.

Following a historical loss to the Carolina Panthers, the Saints parted ways with head coach Dennis Allen. On Monday night, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers narrowly lost to the Kansas City Chiefs in overtime.

With these developments, "the Falcons are sitting firmly in the top spot," as Tori McElhaney notes. The team's performance against divisional opponents provides them some leeway to maintain their lead throughout the season. If they achieve a .500 record over their remaining games, it would require an almost perfect run from competitors like Tampa Bay or Carolina to surpass them.

In recent years, while often contenders for first place in their division, early losses hindered Atlanta's playoff prospects. This year presents an opportunity for change if they capitalize on current advantages.

David H., from Marshalltown, Iowa, highlights underappreciated players such as Charlie Woerner and Bradley Pinion for their contributions beyond headline-grabbing performances by stars like Kirk Cousins and Bijan Robinson. McElhaney adds Mike Hughes to this list of unsung heroes: "Despite not having an interception this year...Hughes has made his presence known" through solid coverage and tackling.

Regarding Zach Harrison's role on defense, McElhaney clarifies that he was not moved inside due to Matthew Judon's arrival but rather due to adjustments under defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake's system. Assistant GM Kyle Smith explained that Harrison was drafted with versatility in mind: "he's one of those guys who can go either way." While primarily playing inside now, Harrison retains potential flexibility depending on game situations.