NFC South: Teams, Rankings, Standings, and 2024 Odds to Win the Division
The NFC South is one of the most unpredictable and dynamic divisions in the NFL, known for its fierce rivalries, dramatic turnarounds, and ever-changing power balance. As the league heads into the 2024 season, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how the NFC South teams will stack up in terms of standings, rankings, and odds to win the division.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the NFC South: the teams, the NFC South standings 2024, recent changes, divisional odds, and how this group compares to others like the teams in the NFC West. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a sports bettor looking for insights, this comprehensive article covers it all.
What is the NFC South?
The NFC South is one of the four divisions in the National Football Conference (NFC) of the NFL. It was formed during the 2002 NFL realignment, which expanded the league to 32 teams and created a symmetrical four-division structure in each conference.
Teams in the NFC South
The NFC South teams include:
- Atlanta Falcons
- Carolina Panthers
- New Orleans Saints
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Each of these teams has had its moments of glory over the last two decades, and the division has produced multiple Super Bowl contenders. Notably, the Buccaneers won Super Bowl LV in 2021, led by Tom Brady.
Current NFC South Standings (2024)
The NFC South standings 2024 are a hot topic as the season progresses. While preseason predictions had the division looking relatively balanced, a few key injuries and trades have shifted the landscape.
2024 NFC South Standings (As of Week 9)
| Team | Wins | Losses | Division Record | Streak |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Falcons | 5 | 3 | 2–1 | W2 |
| New Orleans Saints | 4 | 4 | 2–2 | L1 |
| Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 3 | 5 | 1–3 | L2 |
| Carolina Panthers | 2 | 6 | 1–2 | W1 |
These numbers fluctuate weekly, but so far, the Falcons appear to be the surprise leaders, with a rejuvenated offense and a top-10 defense.
How Do the NFC South Teams Stack Up?
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons have impressed in 2024, particularly with their new quarterback who has shown poise and precision. Their defensive front has also improved, allowing fewer points per game compared to last season.
- Ranking: 1st in NFC South
- Odds to Win Division: +160
New Orleans Saints
Despite a .500 record, the Saints remain competitive. Injuries to key players have slowed their momentum, but they’re still very much in the playoff picture.
- Ranking: 2nd in NFC South
- Odds to Win Division: +200
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The post-Brady era has been challenging. While they show flashes of brilliance, inconsistency at quarterback and a shaky secondary have held them back.
- Ranking: 3rd in NFC South
- Odds to Win Division: +300
Carolina Panthers
Still in rebuilding mode, the Panthers have shown grit but struggle to close out games. Their young roster is developing but isn’t ready to contend yet.
- Ranking: 4th in NFC South
- Odds to Win Division: +750
Key Players to Watch in the NFC South
- Bijan Robinson (Falcons) – One of the most exciting young RBs in the league.
- Derek Carr (Saints) – Veteran leadership guiding a younger offensive unit.
- Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers) – Inconsistent, but capable of high-level play.
- Bryce Young (Panthers) – A promising rookie with flashes of brilliance.
These players will be pivotal in shaping the NFC South standings 2024.
NFC South vs. NFC West: A Division Comparison
Many fans compare the NFC South to the teams in the NFC West, which includes:
- San Francisco 49ers
- Los Angeles Rams
- Seattle Seahawks
- Arizona Cardinals
In contrast to the high-powered NFC West, which often features MVP-caliber quarterbacks and elite defenses, the NFC South is more unpredictable. While the West has dominated the NFC landscape in recent years, the South has struggled to maintain consistent playoff success.
However, the NFC South’s parity makes it one of the most entertaining divisions to watch. Any team can beat any other on a given Sunday, which keeps fans engaged and oddsmakers busy.
NFC South Division Odds and Betting Insights
Latest Odds to Win the NFC South (2024)
- Atlanta Falcons: +160
- New Orleans Saints: +200
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: +300
- Carolina Panthers: +750
These odds to win are derived from sportsbooks tracking betting trends and team performance. The Falcons currently have the inside track, but given the division’s unpredictable nature, things can change quickly.
Top Bets for the NFC South
- Most Value: Saints at +200 – Veteran leadership and solid defense could swing things late in the season.
- High-Risk/High-Reward: Panthers at +750 – If Bryce Young finds his rhythm, they could pull off some upsets.
- Best Bet: Falcons at +160 – With momentum and a favorable schedule, they have a clear path to the division title.
Coaching and Strategy Breakdown
Falcons – Arthur Smith
Smith’s run-heavy offense has paid dividends. The use of play-action and creative formations has helped the Falcons stay unpredictable.
Saints – Dennis Allen
Allen has emphasized defensive discipline and clock management. The team’s offensive creativity needs to improve for postseason success.
Buccaneers – Todd Bowles
Bowles’ defensive-minded approach has not translated to consistent wins. Offensively, the team needs more innovation.
Panthers – Frank Reich
Still adjusting in his first season with the team. Developing the young core is clearly the priority.
2024 NFC South Schedule Highlights
- Week 10: Saints vs. Falcons – Could determine the division leader.
- Week 12: Panthers at Buccaneers – A chance for either team to climb the standings.
- Week 15: Falcons at Saints – Possibly the most important game of the NFC South season.
- Week 18: Buccaneers vs. Falcons – Could have playoff implications.
Expect these games to shape the final NFC South standings 2024.
How Has the NFCSouth Evolved Over the Years?
The NFC South has seen every team win the division since 2002, and no team has repeated as champion more than twice consecutively. This parity is a defining feature.
Super Bowl Appearances Since 2002
- Buccaneers: 2 (Won in 2002, 2021)
- Saints: 1 (Won in 2009)
- Panthers: 2 (Lost in 2003, 2015)
- Falcons: 2 (Lost in 1998 and 2016)
Unlike divisions with dynasties like the AFC East or NFC West, the South often sees a new champion each year.
Fantasy Football and the NFCSouth
The NFC South teams are goldmines for fantasy football managers due to offensive stars like:
- Bijan Robinson (RB – Falcons)
- Chris Olave (WR – Saints)
- Mike Evans (WR – Buccaneers)
- Miles Sanders (RB – Panthers)
Understanding these players’ value in fantasy football can also give insights into real-world matchups and game outcomes.
Media Coverage and Fanbases
Each team in the NFCSouth has a passionate fanbase and significant media presence. The rivalries are intense, especially Falcons vs. Saints, one of the most heated in the NFL.
With increased coverage from national outlets, podcasts, and betting platforms, the NFC South remains in the spotlight year after year.
Conclusion
The NFCSouth continues to be one of the most compelling divisions in the NFL due to its parity, unpredictability, and passionate rivalries. With the 2024 season already halfway through, the NFC South standings 2024 show a tight race that could go down to the wire.
Whether you’re following the NFC South teams as a fan or evaluating the odds to win for betting purposes, there’s no shortage of drama. From rookie sensations to veteran resilience, the division showcases the very essence of football excitement.
As the season progresses, keep an eye on weekly rankings, standings, and game analysis to stay ahead of the curve. And don’t forget to compare how the teams in the NFC South measure up against those in the NFC West — both divisions will likely play major roles in determining the NFC playoff picture.
FAQs about the NFC South
1. How many teams are in the NFCSouth?
There are four teams in the NFCSouth: the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
2. Who is leading the NFCSouth in 2024?
As of Week 9 in the 2024 season, the Atlanta Falcons are leading the NFC South.
3. What are the current odds to win the NFCSouth?
The Falcons have the best odds at +160, followed by the Saints (+200), Buccaneers (+300), and Panthers (+750).
4. How does the NFCSouth compare to the NFC West?
The NFC West has recently been stronger overall, but the NFCSouth is known for its competitive balance and unpredictable outcomes.
5. Has any NFCSouth team won a Super Bowl?
Yes, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2002, 2021) and the New Orleans Saints (2009) have both won Super Bowls.
6. What’s the biggest rivalry in the NFCSouth?
The most intense rivalry is arguably between the Atlanta Falcons and the New Orleans Saints, known for their historic and passionate matchups.
7. Who are some key players to watch in the NFCSouth?
Bijan Robinson (Falcons), Chris Olave (Saints), Mike Evans (Buccaneers), and Bryce Young (Panthers) are among the top players in the division.
