3 Atlanta Falcons that must step up in against San Francisco

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 05: Head coach Arthur Smith of the Atlanta Falcons talks with Matt Ryan #2 during the first half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 05, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 05: Head coach Arthur Smith of the Atlanta Falcons talks with Matt Ryan #2 during the first half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 05, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /
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CHARLOTTE, NC – DECEMBER 12: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons looks on against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on December 12, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Falcons won 29-21. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC – DECEMBER 12: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons looks on against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on December 12, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Falcons won 29-21. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images) /

The Atlanta Falcons are getting ready to take on the San Francisco 49ers in a game that has heavy playoff repercussions for both sides.  A surprising fact for Atlanta when you look at the talent on their roster and remember the struggles they have faced this season.

In spite of all that head coach Arthur Smith has gotten the most out of his roster and sits a game out of a playoff spot. A testament to the fact that this team is headed in the right direction even if they are still two years away from truly competing.

Even if this team fights its way into the playoffs it is hard to see them managing a single win. Getting there would be a surprise and enough of an accomplishment in itself. This team needs another two years to fix their cap issues and bring in new talent.

Within two years I believe Arthur Smith will have his team back in serious playoff contention. For now, however, Atlanta is in wildcard contention and facing the biggest game they have played in three years.

For an upset to happen a lot is going to have to fall Atlanta’s way and these three players, in particular, must have big games.