After losing to the Washington Commanders in overtime last Sunday, the Atlanta Falcons need some help to get into the playoffs. Not only must they defeat the Carolina Panthers in Week 18, but the Falcons must swallow their pride and root for the New Orleans Saints.
The NFC South-leading Tampa Bay Buccaneers hold a one-game lead in the division but the Saints have a chance to play spoiler in Sunday’s season finale. New Orleans could help send Atlanta to the playoffs for the first time since 2017.
Since the Saints have ruled out quarterback Derek Carr, the Falcons’ playoff hopes are in the hands of Saints rookie QB Spencer Rattler.
Derek Carr is out this week. Spencer Rattler will start
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) January 3, 2025
The fifth-round pick was the odd man out in this year’s draft class, which featured six quarterbacks selected in the first 12 picks. Rattler has appeared in six games this season, passing for 1,077 yards, three touchdowns and five interceptions.
The fact that Rattler is getting the start isn’t a major surprise since the Saints have nothing to play for. However, New Orleans may view this game as a chance to set the tone for next season — as the Detroit Lions did in their 2022 season finale against the Green Bay Packers.
The Falcons won’t be headed anywhere if they can’t beat the Panthers, who will also be looking to end the season on a high note. Both NFC South matchups kick off Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.