NFL power rankings, Week 16: Broncos fall, Titans surge

9-5. Previous: . Atlanta Falcons. 10. team. 44. Atlanta took advantage of the 49ers horrendous defense, scoring 28 points in the first half. Devonta Freeman scored three touchdowns with 139 rushing yards, while Matt Ryan connected with Taylor Gabriel and Austin Hooper for his two passing touchdowns. Perhaps this game opened Chip Kelly’s eyes as to why you don’t let an offense have the ball for 36 minutes and gain 29 first downs. Scoring on four-of-five red zone opportunities, the Falcons appear to be back on track, and once again a favorite to win the NFC South despite the advances of Tampa Bay in recent weeks. <p>Next Week: The Falcons travel to Carolina for a Christmas Eve game against their Panthers, as Atlanta looks to reach double-digit wins, and have a record above .500, for the first time since 2012. Atlanta scored 48 points the last time they played the Panthers, and with their recent success on offense, I would not put it past Matt Ryan to have that type of success again.</p> <p>Playoff hopes: After converting 550 yards of offense against the 49ers, the Falcons sit at first place in the NFC North. With the season-series tied between them and the Buccaneers, winning out is key for the Falcons with Carolina and New Orleans remaining on the docket to end the season.</p>