The Atlanta Falcons (7-9) have already been eliminated from playoff contention in the 2021 season, but yet they will play in the prime time slot (4:25 pm) this Sunday when they play host to the New Orleans Saints (8-8) in a NFC South showdown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The game was flexed from the 1:00 pm slot when the NFL realized the Saints have a real chance to clinch the final NFC playoff slot if they can defeat the Falcons, and the Rams who will be playing for a chance to win the NFC West defeat the S.F. 49ers.
Can the Falcons spoil the Saints playoff hopes?
Aaron Freeman from the Locked on Falcons podcast joined the Nick Kayal Show to preview the regular season finale, and Aaron was quick to point out that, “getting a sweep of the Saints would be the cherry on top of year one of Arthur Smith”
Aaron followed that statement by pointing out that “the Falcons, haven’t swept the Saints since the Super Bowl season, and have only done in twice in the Sean Payton ear since 2006.”
Will playing spoiler be motivation for the Falcons to finish 2021 with a big “W”?
The Falcons have had a tough season playing inside the friendly confines of Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The only true home victory came on Dec 26, when the Falcons defeated an injury plagued Detroit Lions team, 20-16.
A loss by the Falcons could mean the difference in drafting as high as number 8 in the upcoming NFL Draft, or with a win the Falcons could draft as low as pick #15.
Aaron agrees with Nick, that the Falcons should play for the win, and let the draft talk start on Monday.
“I think the right mindset is to ruin the Saints season” said Aaron when setting the mood for the game.
Kickoff is set for 4:25 pm at the Benz!




