Falcons Playoff Chances

Are the Falcons playoff bound?

Atlanta Falcons Playoff Hopes Rest on Week 17 Matchup Against Buccaneers

The Atlanta Falcons fell to 5-10 with a 21-18 loss to the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, but they remain in the playoff hunt heading into Week 17. The Falcons currently sit in ninth place in the NFC standings, one game behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the final wild-card spot.

The Falcons can clinch a playoff berth with a win over the Buccaneers in Week 17 and a loss by the Washington Commanders to the Cleveland Browns. The Falcons can also make the playoffs with a tie against the Buccaneers and a Commanders loss.

The Buccaneers are favored by 6.5 points in Week 17, according to DraftKings Sportsbook. However, the Falcons have won two of their last three games, including an upset win over the New Orleans Saints in Week 15.

The Falcons defense has been playing well in recent weeks, allowing just 17.7 points per game over their last three contests. The offense has also shown signs of improvement, led by quarterback Desmond Ridder. Ridder has thrown for 642 yards with five touchdowns and three interceptions in his three starts.

The Falcons will need to play their best game of the season in Week 17 to beat the Buccaneers and keep their playoff hopes alive. With a win, the Falcons would improve to 6-10 and would have a chance to make the playoffs for the first time since 2017.