State of the NFC South

Unlike the first two weeks, only one team in the NFC South was able to win, and it might have been the biggest surprise of the week.

Carolina Panthers

Regular Season record 1-2

After announcing the benching of former number one pick Bryce Young, the Panthers hoped to get back into the win column. Led by Andy Dalton, the Panthers dominated against the Las Vegas Raiders, winning 36-22. In this surprise win, Andy Dalton finished the game with 319 yards and 3 touchdowns. The run game was also much improved, with Chuba Hubbard leading rushers with 114 yards. The Panthers’ defense shut down the Raiders running game and picked off Raiders starting QB Gardner Minshew. It seems the tide may be turning in Carolina, but can it continue?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Regular Season record 2-1

The Buccaneers have been off to an amazing start to the season, but in week 3, they were defeated by the struggling Denver Broncos 26-7. The Bucs offense struggled, but the offensive line may be the catalyst for this loss. The Broncos defense ended the game with 7 sacks on Baker Mayfield. With the offense unable to catch any rhythm, the Buccaneers’ defense was put in a difficult situation keeping up with the Broncos’ rushing attack. Rookie QB Bo Nix had a decent game, throwing for 216 yards and no interceptions while rushing for 47 yards and one touchdown. Next week, the Bucs will face another challenge, with the Philadelphia Eagles coming to town.

Atlanta Falcons

Regular Season record 1-2

Last week, the Falcons were able to shock the Eagles in the last minutes of the game. This week they faced an even bigger challenge against the Kansas City Chiefs. Most of the game was very close, but the Chiefs separated just enough, winning 22-17. Both offenses struggled for most of the game, but a late touchdown throw from Patrick Mahomes was the difference. The Falcons run game never became consistent, and the pass game did not do enough. On defense, the Falcons could not get a sack, but the run defense did well and new signing Justin Simmons had a pick against Patrick Mahomes. Next week, the Falcons will be involved in a NFC South matchup against the New Orleans Saints.

New Orleans Saints

Regular Season record 2-1

After one of the strongest starts to the season in the NFL, the Saints hoped to continue their dominance going into week 3. This did not happen, and the Eagles were able to come out on 15-12. Both defenses were dominant for most of the game, but the Eagles’ offense created some separation late. Once, Saints center Erik McCoy went down with an injury on the first drive of the game, and it looked like the team was lost on offense. The whole offensive line, besides rookie Taliese Fuaga, struggled against the talented Eagles’ defensive line. Derek Carr looked good when he had some time, but due to the offensive line struggles, there was only a handful of times that occurred. The Saints’ defense had a great game, causing two turnovers and sacking Jalen Hurts 3 times, but with the offense struggling, the Eagles were bound to take advantage. As I mentioned before, the Saints will be facing the Falcons next week, and if McCoy is out for some time, then the offensive line will be the difference maker.

Week 3 NFC South Standings:

Saints
Buccaneers
Falcons
Panthers