NFL schedule 2021: Biggest game for all 32 teams

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 22: A detailed view of an official Wilson NFL football with the Cincinnati Bengals logo before a game between the Bengals and Washington Football Team at FedExField on November 22, 2020 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /

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TAMPA, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 07: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers passes during the fourth quarter against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium on February 07, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

NFC South

Atlanta Falcons – Vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Falcons’ decision to re-do Matt Ryan’s contract for salary cap relief committed the franchise to at least two more years of trying to win a championship with their star quarterback. That choice means that Atlanta’s biggest regular-season games come against the defending champs, who are clearly the biggest obstacle in the Falcons’ path back to the top of the NFC South.

Carolina Panthers – Vs. New Orleans Saints

It will be an interesting year in Carolina as Sam Darnold looks to resurrect his NFL career in a better situation with the Panthers. Matchups with the Saints, who could be on the way down after the retirement of Drew Brees, could offer a litmus test of how far Carolina has to go to be a true postseason contender under Matt Rhule.

New Orleans Saints – Vs. Atlanta Falcons

Brees’ retirement and years of mortgaging the future have caught up with the Saints, who will definitely be taking a step back after four straight years of double-digit wins and NFC South titles. How far New Orleans has fallen will be determined by their games against Atlanta, which has already declined but is trying to make one last run at glory before moving on from Ryan.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers – At Los Angeles Rams

The Buccaneers are looking to become the first team to repeat as Super Bowl champs since Brady’s Patriots back in 2004, making their trip to SoFi Stadium very important. The Rams are by far the most difficult NFC opponent on Tampa Bay’s schedule and a loss in this game could mean that the Buccaneers have to go back to Los Angeles at some point during the playoffs.

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