Page 33 - Falcons News Today

Falcons championship continues

Falcons contests launched

The Atlanta Falcons' imperfections remain obvious, topped by inconsistent play at quarterback. There's reason to suggest that Atlanta has a real chance to end its five-year playoff drought. Of the team's six remaining games, only one opponent — the Indianapolis Colts (6-5) — has a winning record.

Analyzing the studs and duds from the New Orleans Saints' 24-15 loss to the Atlanta Falcons: Alvin Kamara and Tyrann Mathieu step up.

First place in the mediocre NFC South, the NFL's only division to lack a team with a winning record, will be on the line when New Orleans visits Atlanta on Sunday. The Saints (5-5) can strengthen their hold on first place by beating the Falcons (4-6). Atlanta has a three-game losing streak, leaving coach Arthur Smith surprised but grateful his team remains in contention in the weak division.

The Atlanta Falcons will try to snap a three-game losing streak and pull even with New Orleans in the weak NFC South when the teams meet for the first time this season.

FULL IINTERVIEW: Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu talks defense getting back on track vs. Falcons

Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday at Albertsons Stadium.

Ridder started the first eight games. The team was 4-4 when Ridder was benched as he was hurt by turnovers and sacks. Heinicke suffered a hamstring injury in Atlanta's 25-23 loss at Arizona on Nov. 12.

Coach Arthur Smith says Desmond Ridder gives the Falcons their best chance to win on Sunday and for the remainder of the season. As expected, Smith reinstated Ridder as the starter on Monday as the Falcons (4-6) try to end a three-game losing streak. Atlanta is only one game behind New Orleans (5-5), but even in the weak NFC South, another loss would be difficult to overcome.