Falcons coach Mike Smith noted that the Falcons (2-3) are just one game behind the Carolina Panthers (3-2) in the NFC South.

The New Orleans Saints (2-3) and Tampa Bay (1-4) are also off to slow starts.

“There’s a lot of football left to be played,” Smith said. “Our number one goal is to win the NFC South because that’s the cleanest way into the second season (playoffs).”

In recent history, at least one team has started off the season hot and taken early control of the division.

Last season, Carolina won seven straight after starting 1-3 on their way to a 12-4 mark.

In 2012, the Falcons opened the season 8-0 and finished 13-3 to claim the division.

“This is a very competitive division,” Smith said. “You can look at the records of the teams right now and see that it’s going to be another competitive year.”

About the Author

Keep Reading

Arizona Cardinals kicker Zane Gonzalez stands on the sidelines during a game against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium, in Glendale, Ariz. Gonzalez has reportedly signed with the Falcons. (Christian Petersen/Getty Images/TNS 2020)

Credit: TNS

Featured

A person exits the Wolf Creek Library in Atlanta after casting his ballot during election day on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez/AJC