The Falcons will be playing for their postseason lives against the Panthers on New Year’s Eve. With the win, Atlanta is in and will claim the NFC's No. 6 seed. A loss would likely end the Falcons’ playoff hopes, but they could sneak in with some help.
Seattle, who's also 9-6, plays NFC West rival Arizona. If the Seahawks lose, they’re eliminated from playoff contention regardless of the Falcons’ result. But if the Seahawks win and the Panthers beat Atlanta, the defending NFC champions will finish short of the postseason.
Lacking offensive touch
Atlanta will need to find its offensive rhythm Sunday.