Atlanta Falcons Week 9 picks: Predicting each NFC South game

Dec 23, 2013; San Francisco, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) looks to the sideline as a timeout is called against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter of the final regular season game at Candlestick Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Alphonso Thomas

Atlanta Falcons (6-2) at San Francisco 49ers (2-6)

Last week’s loss was full of turnovers and mental mistakes and was reminiscent of the Thursday night loss to the Saints a few weeks back. Tampa Bay scored 20 points off of Atlanta’s turnovers assuredly winning the game by those mistakes.

If the Falcons want to head into the bye week with their seventh win, they will have to clean up the mental mistakes and play fundamental Atlanta Falcons football. I have Atlanta sailing to a win and resting easy over the bye week.

Pick: Atlanta 30, San Francisco 13

Green Bay Packers (6-1) at Carolina Panthers (7-0)

It’s the matchup we’ve all been waiting for. The undefeated Panthers finally face competent opposition. Congrats to the Panthers on gaining seven wins with no losses. They won’t reach eight.

Pick: Green Bay 35, Carolina 17

Tennessee Titans (1-6) at New Orleans Saints (4-4)

Former Falcons offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey is serving as the interim coach of the Titans after the release of former head coach Ken Whisenhunt. His first opponent? A New Orleans Saints squad that looks like it wants to make the playoffs.

Pick: New Orleans 28, Tennessee 10

New York Giants (4-4) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-4)

Last week Eli Manning threw six touchdowns. Odell Beckham caught three. This week he’ll throw three, and Odell will catch two.

Pick: New York 31, Tampa Bay 14

Last week: 0-3
Season: 11-15

Next: Aloïs Piet