The Falcons have four very close and heated games this year. 2 with the Saints 2 with the Panthers. Maybe 2 with Tampa Bay. They know each other, they hate each other, the games can go either way, like with the Pats and Steelers of the past or the Pats and Ravens. Except if we are lucky we will see the Pats play their big rivals every year or so. in a strong division big rivals, Giants & Cowboys, Cowboys & Redskins Redskins and Giants, This year, maybe Eagles, play 2 times a year.

Tell me you are not looking forward to 49ers v SeaHawks next week. and to the next matchup in Candlestick later in the year.

This does not diminish the Pats in the playoffs, in fact it means that the Pats have a much easier path to the playoffs with less likelihood of injuries. But the regular season is more exciting in a strong division. In my opinion.