With their come-from-behind victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who were riding a four-game winning streak, the Falcons improved to 10-1 and inched closer to wrapping up the NFC South division title. The Falcons also boast the NFC’s best record.
With the victory, the Falcons took a four-game lead over the Bucs with five games left in the season.
With a loss to the 49ers last night on Sunday Night Football, the New Orleans Saints dropped to 5-6. Carolina (2-8) plays tonight against the Eagles.
Julio Jones was the star of the game. The wide receiver, who’s coming back from an ankle injury, finished with six catches for 147 yards. His 80-yard scoring reception put the Falcons up 17-13 with 8:26 left in the third quarter. His huge day came despite a couple drops during the game.
“That’s our pick your poison attack,” tight end Tony Gonzalez said. “When it comes to you, you have to make a play. I was open across the middle on that one, too. But I’m glad he threw it to Julio because he’s a lot faster.”
The Buccaneers were able to take the lead 23-17, but the Falcons battled back to finish the game strong and win 24-23.