ATL Standard

The Atlanta Falcons are reflecting on their 2024 season as they approach the final game of the year. Currently trailing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC South standings, they face a challenging path to secure a playoff spot. The team's performance has been characterized by narrow margins and crucial details, embodying the unpredictability of the NFL.

As the new year begins, members of the editorial team have shared their thoughts on which games they would like to replay. Tori McElhaney expressed her desire for a rematch against the Washington Commanders. She stated, "Call it recency bias, but I am going to say the most recent loss to the Commanders." McElhaney believes this game was pivotal for Atlanta's postseason aspirations.

Scott Bair selected Week 10's matchup against division rivals New Orleans Saints as his choice for a do-over. He noted, "This was not Atlanta's best game of the season by any means, but it's still one that should have gone down as a W." Bair highlighted missed opportunities and rare defensive lapses that contributed to their defeat.

Tori Waack pointed to Week 11's heavy loss against the Denver Broncos. Waack commented, "This would have prevented the Falcons' first set of back-to-back losses," suggesting that a win could have positively impacted their momentum heading into their bye week.

Lastly, Kris Rhim focused on Week 13's close contest with the Los Angeles Chargers. He said, "The Falcons lost 13-17 in a very winnable game," lamenting turnovers and missed chances despite strong performances from key players like Kirk Cousins and Bijan Robinson.

Despite these reflections, all acknowledge that there are no second chances in professional football. Each game is an opportunity for teams to deliver their best performance without relying on hindsight or hypothetical scenarios.