While the Falcons now control their own fate, a tough test awaits under the lights in Week 17. Atlanta will be in the Washington D.C. area to face the contending Commanders, who might be looking to clinch a playoff berth of their own with a win.

Washington’s thrilling overtime win over Atlanta locked up a playoff spot for the Commanders. Despite the loss, the Falcons are still alive in the NFC South title race. However, they no longer control their own destiny.

Washington’s fourth-ranked pass defense will present a stiff test for Penix, who passed for 202 yards and no TDs against the lowly Giants last week. Meanwhile, Daniels is coming off a stellar performance in a rousing three-point win over Philadelphia, passing for five TDs. He also ranks second among NFL QBs in rushing yards with 737.

The NFC South, NFC North and AFC North divisions are still up for grabs as we head into Week 18. While the Atlanta Falcons controlled their destiny a week ago, that’s no longer the case after Sunday’s 30-24 overtime loss to the Washington Commanders.

Jayden Daniels hit Zach Ertz for a 2-yard touchdown with 2:42 left in overtime as the Washington Commanders beat the Atlanta Falcons 30-24 on Sunday night in Landover, Md., to secure their first playoff berth since the 2020 season.

Just a short time ago, the Falcons were traveling to New Orleans with a 6-3 record. The Saints had just fired Dennis Allen and were reeling. Atlanta was in the driver’s seat of the NFC South, looking prime to capture their first division title since 2016.