The 1998 Atlanta Falcons came out of nowhere. Atlanta went 7-9 in the 1997 NFL season, earning a third place spot in the NFC West and no playoff appearance. However, the pieces for a great team were there.
Quarterback Chris Chandler, defensive back Ray Buchanan, and the star linebacker Jessie Tuggle all went to the Pro Bowl for their stellar play in the 1997 season. Jamal Anderson was emerging as a premier running back in the league as he logged his second 1,000 yard rushing season in 1997.
In September 1998, the Falcons came storming out of the gates and never looked back.