The Panthers win the NFC South thanks to a Falcons win

NBC Sports•January 4, 2026•sports

Key Points:

The Panthers secured the NFC South title and a playoff spot despite losing their final game, benefiting from a three-way tiebreaker with the Falcons and Buccaneers based on their record against these teams.
The Falcons defeated the Saints 19-17, with Kirk Cousins throwing a touchdown to Drake London and Zane Gonzalez contributing four field goals, finishing the season 8-9.
Rookie Tyler Shough showed promise for the Saints, throwing a late touchdown and rushing for a score, solidifying his role as the team's starting quarterback despite the loss.
Cousins, returning after Michael Penix’s injury, led the Falcons to four consecutive wins, completing 18-of-32 passes for 180 yards with one interception