Something electric is brewing in Atlanta, and it’s not just the buzz of the NFL season heating up. The Falcons, a team that has struggled to live up to expectations in recent years, are shaking off their past and emerging as serious contenders in the NFC. And the reason? None other than Kirk Cousins, the veteran quarterback who seems primed to lead the Falcons on a playoff charge.
Chris Canty, former NFL star turned analyst, isn’t holding back his enthusiasm. On UNSPORTSMANLIKE Radio, he boldly posed the question, “Why not the Falcons?” His confidence is infectious, and it’s not just talk—there’s substance to it. Cousins, now the best quarterback in the NFC South, just torched the Buccaneers with a jaw-dropping 509 yards and four touchdowns. The momentum is real, and as Canty highlighted, having the top quarterback in your division can be the ultimate game-changer. Right now, that title belongs to Cousins.
The Falcons have found themselves in an ideal situation. The NFC, once dominated by powerhouses like the 49ers and Packers, now seems wide open. Both those teams, along with other supposed contenders, are struggling with inconsistency and uncertainty. As Canty pointed out, “All the teams that we think will be playoff contenders have significant questions.” And this chaos could be Atlanta’s ticket to ride. With teams stumbling, the Falcons are surging at the perfect moment to stake their claim.
But it’s more than just Cousins slinging touchdowns. Team chemistry is blossoming in Atlanta, and that’s a critical factor in sustaining success. After a record-setting performance, Cousins himself admitted, “What a night. I am exhausted.” His leadership is undeniable, and it’s helping to bring the Falcons together. The coaching staff is building confidence, execution is improving, and Canty rightfully pointed out that Atlanta is getting their money’s worth by ensuring they’ve got the best QB in the division. The offensive line is protecting, the receivers are thriving, and the entire unit is feeding off Cousins’ calm yet commanding presence.
Let’s not forget the rising stars contributing to the Falcons’ success. Drake London is lighting up defenses, posting monster stats like his 12 receptions for 154 yards against the Bucs. This kind of firepower in the passing game is keeping opponents on edge. Add in the balanced attack with a strong run game—led by Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier—and the Falcons are becoming a multi-dimensional threat.
However, the road ahead won’t be easy. Tougher defenses are looming, and they’ll look to expose any weaknesses in Atlanta’s game plan. Can the Falcons adapt and keep this streak alive? Communication, quick adjustments, and staying ahead of defensive schemes will be vital as the season progresses. If Atlanta can keep this train rolling, there’s no telling how far they can go.
Injuries are always a wildcard, but smart player management could be the Falcons’ key to surviving the grind. Keeping Robinson and Allgeier fresh with a solid rotation will be essential to maintaining their balanced attack and ensuring Cousins has the tools he needs to lead them deep into the postseason.
Right now, the Falcons have everyone talking. Kirk Cousins has injected new life into a franchise looking for a breakthrough, and analysts like Chris Canty are already eyeing a deep playoff run. With the right mix of leadership, chemistry, and strategic execution, Atlanta might just shock the NFL and turn their playoff hopes into reality. Eyes are on the Falcons now, and they’ve got the firepower to back up the hype.
