I'm not one to make declarative statements about NFL teams based on one game. Or even a couple of games. But we're reaching the point where we have enough data to be able to identify what teams are about. When it comes to the NFC South, its all ugly today.
- The Falcons are officially a ball club who's wheels have flown off. Atlanta is now 1-11 in their last 12 road games. But that's a bit misleading. They're actually 0-11 on the road in America. Their one road win since December of 2012 came in Toronto against the Bills last season. Good news: this team plays Detroit in London this Sunday. Technically, this is a home game for the Falcons. The defense is now 30th in the NFL in both yards per game and points per game.
- What has happened to the Carolina Panthers defense? When GM Dave Gettleman called his salary cap situation "challenging" last offseason this is what he meant. Carolina have seen multiple starters move on in free agency and have their most explosive pass rusher sitting out for perhaps the season. The Panthers have now given up 30+ points in four of their last five games. Amazingly, their 3-3-1 record is good enough for first place in the NFC South.
- I'm often asked when the Saints games with the NFL salary cap will catch up with them. Because of the growth of the cap and some creative management, it technically hasn't. But I'd argue that it has as of this year. The Saints lack that edge that has defined them for the better part of a decade. They've been the team who makes the big play, who takes advantage of your mistake, who has always been a step ahead. That hasn't shown up so far this season. Their turnovers and lack of defense has landed them at 2-4, including 0-4 on the road. Look what they've parted with in recent years: Will Smith, Jonathan Vilma, Malcolm Jenkins, Lance Moore, Darren Sproles, Jermon Bushrod, Brian De La Puente, Jabari Greer...etc. Guys that leave take a piece of your culture with them.
- Tampa wins for not losing. A well-timed bye. Well done. First team to 7 may win this thing. So Buccaneers aren't out of this just yet.