NFL: 5 Must-See Matchups In Week 16

Falcons vs. Saints

One of the games of the week is coming from rivals from the worst division in all of football. The Saints will host the Falcons in a game that is needed for both teams to advance past the regular season. Julio Jones is nursing a quad injury, so Matt Ryan could be without his top weapon. The problem for the Falcons, however, is on the defensive side of the ball. Atlanta has given up 19 rushing touchdowns in 2014 and they give up a weekly average of 117 yards. Although they do have 14 interceptions on the season, Atlanta’s pass defense has given up just under 4,100 yards on the year.

Knowing their deficiencies, the Saints’ offense, led by the duo of Drew Brees and Mark Ingram, will have a feast on Atlanta’s defense in this game. Last week against the Chicago Bears, the Saints found their rhythm on offense. Although the Saints have been horrible in 2014, this is still a team that could go far in the playoffs, especially if Jimmy Graham starts to produce like he has over the past few years.

Although the Falcons and the Saints haven’t been good football teams in 2014, it’s good to know that two of these, despite their records, are vying for playoff spots. It’s unfortunate that a team in the NFC may not make the playoffs with an 11-5 record, but the Falcons and the Saints have made the playoffs for years now and both of these teams have a history of winning meaningful football games. This game will have huge implications for the NFC South division title.

Next: Seahawks vs. Cardinals