The Atlanta Falcons are on a downward trajectory and fighting to keep their lead in the division after losing their second consecutive game in Week 11. The Denver Broncos demolished the Falcons in a 38-6 blowout on Sunday, dropping Atlanta to 6-5 on the season.
Sunday’s loss comes one week after the Falcons were defeated by the New Orleans Saints. Not long ago, it appeared Atlanta was poised to run away with the division, but back-to-back losses have kept the rest of the NFC South alive entering Week 12.
NFC South standings entering Week 12
| Pos | Team | Record | Divisional Record | Games Back | Next Opponent |
| 1 | Falcons | 6-5 | 4-1 | – | Bye |
| 2 | Buccaneers | 4-6 | 1-2 | 2 | @ Giants |
| 3 | Saints | 4-7 | 2-3 | 2 | Bye |
| 4 | Panthers | 3-7 | 1-2 | 3 | vs Chiefs |
When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers set to play the New York Giants next week, they will be expected to win and move within one game of Atlanta. However, the Falcons hold the tiebreaker due to sweeping the Buccaneers, giving them another big advantage down the stretch.
The New Orleans Saints defeated the Cleveland Browns to improve to 4-7. It was the Saints’ second straight win and puts them half a game behind Tampa Bay in the standings.
When the week concludes, Atlanta’s lead will be two or three games ahead of the next division opponent. This includes the added tiebreaker in effect. These are the benefits of getting the job done early against division opponents.
The Falcons will take on the Los Angeles Chargers after their bye in Week 12.
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