Atlanta Falcons: 2015 schedule could help playoff push

Dec 21, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) is sacked by Atlanta Falcons defensive tackles Corey Peters (91) and Tyson Jackson (99) during the third quarter at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Divisional opponents

The Falcons of course face the New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at home and on the road next season.

After going 5-1 in the division last year, they will be aiming to repeat the feat in 2015.

Carolina provides the toughest test. They have the defense to slow down the Falcons’ offense, and are building a solid core on offense.

They have the talent at quarterback in Cam Newton; they also have an upcoming receiver in Kelvin Benjamin. Benjamin has the ability to cause mismatches all over the field.

The Panthers are also dangerous on the ground.

Outside of them, the Falcons will feel they have a shot at sweeping the Buccaneers and Saints. They swept the two last year, and will have to be confident of doing so again.

New Orleans is never an easy venue, but the Saints have a lot of question marks right now.

If the Falcons can make the right moves between now and the start of the season, there’s a reason to believe they can win four or five of their division games next season.

Next: NFC East