NFC South standings remain unchanged after Week 12 following losses for the Buccaneers, Panthers, and Saints.,Key updates include Baker Mayfield’s injury for the Buccaneers, Kirk Cousins leading the Falcons to a win, and injury concerns for Alvin Kamara of the Saints.The NFC South division standings remained static after Week 12, with the Buccaneers, Panthers, and Saints all experiencing losses. The Saints were defeated in a divisional matchup against the Falcons. As the season progresses towards the playoffs, each game holds increased significance for teams vying for playoff spots and favorable seeding. Attention is particularly focused on injured quarterbacks, receivers in rehabilitation, and improving defenses within the division.
Current NFC South Standings:
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 6-5
Carolina Panthers: 6-6
Atlanta Falcons: 4-7
New Orleans Saints: 2-9
**Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-5):**
The Buccaneers suffered a significant loss to the Rams, compounded by injuries. Quarterback Baker Mayfield sustained a shoulder injury during the game, initially returning after a visit to the injury tent but re-aggravating the injury on a Hail Mary attempt. Teddy Bridgewater finished the game, and Mayfield was later seen in a sling. An MRI revealed a low-grade AC joint sprain in his non-throwing shoulder, offering a chance for him to play in the upcoming game against the Cardinals. If Mayfield is unable to play, the Buccaneers will rely on Bridgewater, necessitating offensive adjustments. Coach Todd Bowles stated that the offense would need schematic tweaks to accommodate Bridgewater’s style. On a positive note, running back Bucky Irving has returned to practice as a limited participant and aims to play on Sunday if well by Friday. Additionally, coach Bowles anticipates the return of receiver Mike Evans, receiver Jalen McMillan, and defensive lineman Calijah Kancey before the season concludes, though specific timelines are uncertain.
**Atlanta Falcons (4-7):**
The Falcons secured their first win since Week 6, led by quarterback Kirk Cousins. With starting quarterback Michael Penix undergoing ACL surgery, Cousins stepped in against the Saints, throwing for 199 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, which was returned for a touchdown. This interception marked the 16th of his career, tying him for third most among active quarterbacks. Cousins’ two touchdown passes brought his career total to 290, tying him with Johnny Unitas for 17th all-time in NFL history. Coach Raheem Morris highlighted the team’s successful run game as a key factor in their offensive strategy. The Falcons also welcomed back linebacker Divine Deablo, who played with a cast on his left hand due to an injury. Kicker Zane Gonzalez made two field goals of over 50 yards. Michael Penix is expected to require approximately nine months for recovery from his ACL injury, his fifth season-ending injury in eight seasons. Coach Morris acknowledged that Penix’s injury situation might influence the Falcons’ quarterback plans for the offseason.
**New Orleans Saints (2-9):**
Quarterback Tyler Shough had another solid performance in his third start, completing 30 of 43 passes for 243 yards, but threw no touchdowns and one interception. The Saints’ offense struggled in the red zone, failing to capitalize on multiple drives into Falcons territory, resulting in only three points, a turnover on downs inside the 1-yard line, an interception, and two missed field goals. Following the missed field goals, the Saints released kicker Grupe and signed veteran kicker Cade York. York, formerly with the Browns, Commanders, and Bengals, has a career field goal percentage of 33-of-45 and has made 5-of-9 attempts from 50-plus yards. The team’s only touchdown was a defensive score. Defensive end Cam Jordan recorded a sack, two tackles for loss, and a forced fumble, emphasizing the defense’s need to secure more turnovers. Running back Alvin Kamara left Sunday’s game with a knee injury, and a timeline for his return is currently unknown. Devin Neal finished the game in Kamara’s absence. The Saints also signed running back Evan Hull from the practice squad and activated tackle Barry Wesley off Injured Reserve.
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