Atlanta Falcons Week 12 picks: Predicting each NFC South game

Nov 22, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) runs onto the field before their game against the Indianapolis Colts at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Alphonso Thomas

Minnesota Vikings (7-3) at Atlanta Falcons (6-4)

The Atlanta Falcons suffered a disappointing loss last week at the hands of the Indianapolis Colts, without star quarterback Andrew Luck. The team has been in a slump the past few weeks and are in need of an immediate turnaround if they want any part of the playoffs. The Vikings are a team that have the firepower to take the Falcons down, but only if the Falcons return to their early season form.

Pick: Atlanta 31, Minnesota 20

Carolina Panthers (10-0) at Dallas Cowboys (3-7)

Bold prediction of the week: Dez Bryant pulls down three TDs against one of the best defenses in the league.

Pick: Dallas 24, Carolina 14

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-5) at Indianapolis Colts (5-5)

The Bucs seem to have hit a stride under the leadership of Jameis Winston. However, the Colts have hit a stride of their own.

Pick: Indianapolis 28, Tampa Bay 17

New Orleans Saints (4-6) at Houston Texans (5-5)

The Texans are in a race for the number one spot in the AFC South, New Orleans won’t be much of a challenge.

Pick: Houston 17, New Orleans 10

Last week: 1-2
Season: 14-21

Next: Aloïs Piet