How the Buccaneers, Falcons and Saints can win the NFC South - ESPN

The Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints and Tampa Bay Buccaneers were locked in a three-way tie for the NFC South entering Sunday's games when the one-win Carolina Panthers decided to crash the division party.

The Bucs and Saints, who secured wins over the Green Bay Packers and New York Giants, respectively, remain tied for the division lead at 7-7 and took a one-game lead over the Falcons.

The Falcons' hopes to win the division title — and a wild-card berth — took a hit heading after the loss to the league-worst Panthers, while the Saints and Bucs both control their own destinies.

With three weeks remaining, let's take a look at each team's path to an NFC South title.

Remaining schedule: vs. Jacksonville Jaguars, vs. New Orleans Saints, at Carolina Panthers

Chances of winning the division: 58.3%

Chances of making the playoffs: 68.9%

What scenario needs to happen to make the playoffs: The most ideal scenario would be to win out, which would secure the division, or finish out 2-1. They could also lose to the Panthers and Jaguars and still get in by beating the Saints, who they have already beaten. A unique wrinkle though is that two of these three remaining games are at home, but they've been a better road team.

What's the key to make the playoffs: Consistency. Quarterback Baker Mayfield went from completing 48.3% of his passes in Week 14 against the Falcons to 78.6% against the Packers in Week 15. They've found a ground game with Rachaad White, and receiver Chris Godwin is picking up momentum. They've had a revolving door on defense because of injuries, but they need to keep their stout play in the red zone, where they've been one of the league's best this season. — Jenna Laine

Remaining schedule: at Los Angeles Rams, at