Predicting how every Atlanta Falcons game will end in 2023
By Joe Carlino
WEEK 18: @ NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (TBD)
Given how competitive the NFC South could be between the Falcons and Saints, this game very well could become "Game 272", also known as the final regular season game and thus on NBC's "Sunday Night Football". This would actually be the Falcons' first time competing in the primetime spotlight all season if those cards were dealt.
That said, one thing Arthur Smith won't do is "sit" his starters in a game that would technically be considered meaningless with the team having the division and a home playoff game secured. Meanwhile, on the other side, a Saints win in this situation would help them in securing a wild-card spot, and they're not only looking to defeat the Falcons in the finale, they're wanting to secure that berth.
Falcons fans look away, because in this prediction, the Saints do end up playing in January like we do, but they'll be more hobbled than our Dirty Birds will be.
PREDICTION: NEW ORLEANS 24, ATLANTA 17
RECORD: 10-7