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

Nov 16, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) catches the ball as Washington Redskins cornerback Tracy Porter (22) defends in the second quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The Bucs are confident they have found “The Man” at quarterback with first overall pick Jameis Winston. Nobody is expecting Winston to turn Tampa Bay into Super Bowl contenders overnight, and I don’t even believe they will be in the playoff hunt just yet, but an improved team can certainly cause some slip ups in the division.

There are still holes on defense for the Bucs, but their offense looks like a strong unit now. If Winston can improve their quarterback play from last year, and let’s be honest, that’s not difficult, he certainly has the weapons around him to succeed.

May 8, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) works out for rookie mini camp at One Buc Place. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Don’t sleep on the Buccaneers. The Falcons will be put to the test in a tough road game, but it’s so important they get the job done.

If the Falcons can come out these two games with victories, they will be in a great position heading into the final three.

It doesn’t get any easier a week later as the Falcons stay on the road to face the Panthers. Carolina has won the division in consecutive years and has beaten Atlanta four times in the past five meetings.

The Bank of America Stadium is never an easy place to visit, but the Falcons can take confidence from the fact they won there last season.

Breaking down a strong defense will be key, while keeping Cam Newton and the mismatch receivers in check will be of equal importance.

Next: It doesn't get any easier