Last-minute reminder of what Saints fans are rooting for Sunday

Week 18 is here, and there are several games that affect the New Orleans Saints playoff chances. Here is one last reminder of who Saints fans should root for.

We didn't hear no bell. That's right, somehow, some way the New Orleans Saints aren't dead quite just yet. They still have a chance at the playoffs despite this roller coaster of a season. Speaking of roller coasters, week 18 in the NFL has become a carnival with all of the playoff scenarios, and there are a few games that Saints fans need to keep their eyes on during the regular season finale.

First and foremost, the Saints need to take care of their own business first. If they want any shot at the playoffs, then they need to defeat their biggest rival, the Atlanta Falcons. They themselves are also fighting for their playoff lives. Unlike the Saints though, the Falcons could be playing for their coach's job, while Dennis Allen is reportedly safe (which is a topic for another time).

If the Saints do what they need to there, then we go to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. If they ay and egg and are stunned by the lowly Carolina Panthers, then with a Saints win we will in fact have a playoff game in the Superdome.

Suppose the Saints and Bucs both win though. Well, the Saints may not be able to be crowned the kings of the NFC South, but there will still be hope for a Wild Card birth.

With a Saints win, they can still squeak into the playoff if the Seattle Seahawks lose to the Arizona Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers lose to the Chicago Bears. This may be a tall order, but it could also be far worse. Divisional games are unpredictable, and the Bears and Cardinals are somewhat hot. Just saying.

So there you have it. Of course, none of this matters if the New Orleans Saints don't get off the bus against Atlanta. Take care of business first, then see if the pieces fall into place.

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