Atlanta Falcons: December will make or break the Falcons’ season

Sep 7, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) calls a play to Atlanta Falcons offensive tackle Jake Matthews (70) in their game against the New Orleans Saints at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons won 37-34 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

When December arrives, the fun and games are over. It’s the holiday season for most, but it’s crunch time in the NFL.

In the first three months of the season, you need to stay in the hunt. As soon as we enter December, it’s time to get hot and build momentum.

Truer words couldn’t be spoken in regards to the 2015 Atlanta Falcons team. Whether they boom, bust or fall somewhere in between, Dan Quinn’s first season as head coach will be defined by the team’s performances in December.

To get an idea why, let’s take a look at the Falcons’ final five games.

What stands out are the four division games, two of which are on the road. That’s an incredibly tough way to end the season and each game is crucial to the Falcons’ success.

Entering December, Atlanta needs to be in contention to win the division. Win all four divisional games and they will almost certainly go onto win the ‘South.

It all kicks off with a trip to Tampa Bay on December 6. The Falcons swept the Buccaneers last term, but it won’t be as easy repeating that feat in 2015.

Next: The Bucs pose a threat