Falcons

The Falcons faced a tough overtime loss in Week 17, needing a Buccaneers defeat in Week 18 to secure a postseason spot. Atlanta’s head coach, Raheem Morris, expressed pride in first-round QB Michael Penix Jr. despite a challenging performance, maintaining that their focus is on handling their business in the upcoming week.

“I love the kid,” Morris stated, as reported by Josh Kendall of The Athletic. “I admire his fight and desire. Anyone who can stand tall in adversity and deliver a strike like he did to Kyle Pitts for a chance to win is what this is all about. He embodies our spirit, represents Atlanta, and showcases all that is good about us.”

“We need to focus on what we can control. Our goal is to go out and win our football game; that’s all we can do.”

Panthers

After surrendering 48 points in one of the franchise’s worst defeats, Panthers head coach Dave Canales emphasized that the blame shouldn’t rest solely on the defense or DC Ejiro Evero.

“It’s a collective effort. I recognize that we have given up too many yards and points,” Canales remarked, according to Joseph Person of The Athletic. “However, when we only convert 22 percent (2 of 9) on third downs, it puts pressure on the defense, and they have to go back out against a strong offensive team.”

“It’s about opportunities. We provided them with multiple chances to build on their momentum, and that’s a team effort.”

Saints

• Saints interim head coach Darren Rizzi announced that TE Taysom Hill successfully underwent ACL surgery without complications, and Hill is “fired up” about his rehab and plans to return next season. (Katherine Terrell)
• Regarding RB Alvin Kamara’s status for Week 18, Rizzi added: “Alvin wants to play. I’ll defer to the medical staff to see if he’s fit to play.” (Nick Underhill)