NFC South Power Rankings after Week 1

2. Atlanta Falcons

Sure, the Falcons went out and beat a rookie quarterback who made some rookie mistakes in his first start. But, the excitement around Atlanta's Week 1 start is real. Their defense played about as good as you could play, again, intercepting Bryce Young twice and forcing a Miles Sanders fumble.

Overall, the Falcons played a physical game. It was a game that saw both offenses stay under 300 total yards, with the Falcons only totaling 221 of their own. Desmond Ridder didn't do much, but he also didn't have to do a whole lot with the way the Falcons ran the ball and took advantage of their opportunities.

Atlanta looks to have a lethal one-two punch behind second-year pro Tyler Allgeier and rookie first-round pick Bijan Robinson. Allgeier led the way in carries with 15, that went for 75 yards and two scores. Meanwhile, Robinson rushed 10 times for 56 yards, but also caught six passes, one of which went for his first NFL touchdown.

The additions on defense seemed to come alive and make a difference too, especially Bates. If Atlanta can ride this momentum and continue their physical play while dominating on the ground, they will have a real shot at winning this division come year's end.