Close Article Return to stream X
NFL •

Atlanta Falcons’ 5 Potential Playoff Opponents In 2015

+Read full article
Getty Images

Atlanta Falcons’ 5 Potential Playoff Opponents In 2015

Matt Ryan Atlanta Falcons
Getty Images

Given the fact that they were in easily the worst division in NFL history last year and still couldn’t make the playoffs, the Atlanta Falcons are looking to retool and rebound this year. New head coach Dan Quinn will look to bring a sense of toughness to this team and hopefully a return to the playoffs, but they will need a little help from their schedule to do so. Here’s a look at the Falcons’ five potential playoff opponents next year.

5. Philadelphia Eagles

Lesean McCoy Philadelphia Eagles
Getty Images

5. Philadelphia Eagles

Lesean McCoy Philadelphia Eagles
Getty Images

This team uncharacteristically folded down the stretch last year and fell out of playoff contention. But they have far too much talent on this team with LeSean McCoy, Darren Sproles and Jeremy Maclin to not bounce back. Chip Kelly has proven that he can basically plug any players in his system and it will still work, so it doesn’t matter what direction they go with in regards to quarterback. Expect this team to return to the postseason in 2015.

4. Dallas Cowboys

Dez Bryant Dallas Cowboys
Getty Images

4. Dallas Cowboys

Dez Bryant Dallas Cowboys
Getty Images

Now that Jerry Jones has finally given a head coach control over the players he has on the team -- one that fits his vision and the style of play he wants to implement -- the Cowboys are once again a force to be reckoned with in the NFL. This is a team that finally has an identity and plays a bruising style of football that can win anywhere and in any conditions. Expect them to make another deep run in the playoffs next year.

3. Indianapolis Colts

Andrew Luck Indianapolis Colts
Getty Images

3. Indianapolis Colts

Andrew Luck Indianapolis Colts
Getty Images

As long as Andrew Luck stays healthy, this team will continue to dominate their weak division. They basically get six free wins a year going against the likes of the Tennessee Titans, the Jacksonville Jaguars and a team they have owned for more than 15 years in the Houston Texans. If they can find any semblance of a running game, this team can contend for a Super Bowl title.

2. Houston Texans

Arian Foster Houston Texans
Getty Images

2. Houston Texans

Arian Foster Houston Texans
Getty Images

I know that the Colts historically have their number, but this team was one game out of the playoffs last year, with three subpar quarterbacks all getting their chance to lead the team. If they are able to find some stability at that position in free agency and can get some people healthy, Bill O’Brien could help this franchise finally turn the corner and get back in the playoffs.

1. New Orleans Saints

Drew Brees New Orleans Saints
Getty Images

1. New Orleans Saints

Drew Brees New Orleans Saints
Getty Images

Drew Brees and Sean Payton are like the poor man’s version of Tom Brady and Bill Belichick -- they are the perfect fit for one another and more than likely would not be nearly as successful without each other. Failure doesn’t sit well with Payton, so he will find a way to fix their awful defense and take some pressure off of Brees; the people in New Orleans will once again be dancing in the streets come January.

Your Favorites