After the Falcons dropped two games in a row to Dallas and New Orleans, the team desperately needed to get a win to stay in the chase for the playoffs.

They did what they needed to do. Kind of. After they built up a lead of 21 points, the Falcons allowed the Redskins back in the game on two second half touchdowns. To stretch the lead back to 14 points, it took a Michael Turner touchdown run of 58 yards, fueled by LaRon Landry’s shoddy play. If Atlanta’s defense hadn’t stiffened, the game might have gone right down to the last minute.

The good news for the Falcons is that Turner had 166 rushing yards, bringing back memories of his 2008 performance.

However, what was really needed for the Falcons was an absolute pasting, like what they were able to do last month to the 49ers or like what head coach Mike Smith apparently tried applying to DeAngelo Hall. Atlanta needs to now handle the Panthers playing in Charlotte. The Falcons will then meet the Giants at the Meadowlands.

It could turn out in the end that none of the surprise teams from last year- the Ravens, Dolphins and Falcons- will return to the playoffs. However of the three teams, the only one that is over .500 after the first eight games is the Falcons, making them the team with the best chance of returning to the playoffs.

If they had blown the Redskins out, we would feel much better regarding their chances. Also if quarterback Matt Ryan had been able to gain over 135 passing yards.

For the Washington Redskins, their nightmare season continues without an end in sight. They probably only have one game left that they are likely to win. Even a win over the Raiders isn’t guaranteed. A final record of 2-14 is a real possibility, enough to turn any Redskins fan’s heart dark.

Popularity: 41% [?]