The Atlanta Falcons narrowly missed the playoffs after falling to the Buffalo Bills in Week 17, but they’ve still got something to play for in Week 18. A matchup with our most hated rival, the New Orleans Saints, awaits on Sunday. Arthur Smith pulled off a significant upset over New Orleans earlier in the season, which gives him a chance to complete the sweep with a win at home this weekend.
More than that, there’s an opportunity for the Falcons to officially eliminate the Saints from playoff contention. If Atlanta defeats New Orleans, it’s curtains for the Saints’ playoff hopes—and that would be a satisfying way to end the season for Falcons fans and players.