ATL Standard

The Atlanta Falcons are currently leading the NFC South with an 8-7 record. With two games remaining in the regular season, they have control over their playoff destiny. According to NFL.com, their chances of making the playoffs stand at 54%, a significant increase from last week's 31%.

If the Falcons secure victories in their final two games, they will win the division title for the first time since 2016 and advance to the postseason. Their upcoming game is against the Washington Commanders on "Sunday Night Football," a match expected to be intense and competitive. Following that, they will conclude their regular season at home against the Carolina Panthers.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost their lead in the NFC South after being defeated by the Dallas Cowboys in Week 16. They will face off against both the Panthers and New Orleans Saints in their remaining games.

As Week 17 approaches, several teams have been eliminated from playoff contention. Currently, five NFC teams are vying for three available playoff spots.

Here's a snapshot of potential first-round matchups as of Wednesday, December 25:

- 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)

The divisional standings are also shaping up as teams fight for positions within NFC South, North, East, and West divisions.