Dirty South

In an interesting turn of the tides, the NFC South has become a closer race than anyone thought. The Buccaneers are coming off a disappointing loss to the Saints and are looking to maintain control of the division with a win in Atlanta. 

The Bucs season has been somewhat of a tragic story, with injuries plaguing them from the beginning and unlikely teams in their division coming into their own. With the Panthers hot on their tails, the Bucs room for error has slimmed significantly. Baker has proven himself with MVP-like play throughout the beginning of the season, so can he lead this battered Bucs team through a gritty Falcons team Thursday night? There is hope on the horizon for Tampa Bay, as they are getting back some key players from injury at the right time. 

With Atlanta being eliminated from the playoffs, they are playing for pride at this point in the season. With a dangerous run game, this Falcons team shouldn't be underestimated as they have given some tough opponents a run for their money. Can the Falcons de-rail the hold Tampa Bay has on their division, or will the Buccaneers clip the wings of the dirty bird?