The Atlanta Falcons slumped to 3-5 with a big loss against the New England Patriots on Sunday, Nov. 2.
In this article, we’ll share the 2025 Atlanta Falcons schedule as well as an analysis of each game, which we’ll attend in person.
2025 Atlanta Falcons Schedule
The Falcons have some great games on their schedule, including a Monday Night Football (MNF) showdown and two Sunday Night Football (SNF) games. Another highlight is their Week 10 game against the Indianapolis Colts, which will be played in Berlin, Germany, at Olympic Stadium.
| Week | Opponent | Date and Time (EST) | Score (Falcons vs. Opponent) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Sun, Sep 7, 1:00 PM | L 20-23 |
| 2 | @ Minnesota Vikings | Sun, Sep 14, 8:20 PM (SNF) | W 22-6 |
| 3 | @ Carolina Panthers | Sun, Sep 21, 1:00 PM | L 0-30 |
| 4 | Washington Commanders | Sun, Sep 28, 1:00 PM | W 34-27 |
| 5 | BYE WEEK | ||
| 6 | Buffalo Bills | Mon, Oct 13, 8:15 PM (MNF) | W 24-14 |
| 7 | @ San Francisco 49ers | Sun, Oct 19, 8:20 PM (SNF) | L 10-20 |
| 8 | Miami Dolphins | Sun, Oct 26, 1:00 PM | L 10-34 |
| 9 | @ New England Patriots | Sun, Nov 2, 1:00 PM | L 23-24 |
| 10 | @ Indianapolis Colts (Berlin) | Sun, Nov 9, 9:30 AM | |
| 11 | Carolina Panthers | Sun, Nov 16, 1:00 PM | |
| 12 | @ New Orleans Saints | Sun, Nov 23, 4:25 PM | |
| 13 | @ New York Jets | Sun, Nov 30, 1:00 PM | |
| 14 | Seattle Seahawks | Sun, Dec 7, 1:00 PM | |
| 15 | @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Thu, Dec 11, 8:15 PM (TNF) | |
| 16 | @ Arizona Cardinals | Sun, Dec 21, 4:05 PM | |
| 17 | Los Angeles Rams | Mon, Dec 29, 8:15 PM (MNF) | |
| 18 | @ New Orleans Saints | Sat/Sun, Jan 3/4, TBD |
How Will the Falcons Do In 2025?
Below is a week-by-week breakdown of their opponents, based on the official schedule, along with an analysis of whether the Falcons are likely to win or lose each game and the reasoning behind each prediction.
The analysis considers the Falcons’ strengths (e.g., offensive firepower with Michael Penix Jr., Drake London, and Bijan Robinson; improved defense with draft picks like Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr.), weaknesses (e.g., unproven quarterback in Penix, defensive pass rush concerns), and opponent dynamics (e.g., 2024 performance, roster changes, and coaching).
The Falcons’ 2025 strength of schedule is the fourth-easiest in the NFL, per Sharp Football Analysis, with opponents having a .478 winning percentage from 2024, which could favor Atlanta.
With that being said, don’t expect Penix to change who he is.
Atlanta Falcons 2025 Schedule and Game-by-Game Analysis
As the full-time starter, Penix’s ability to manage games and avoid turnovers is critical. His 2024 cameo (1-2 record) showed promise but inconsistency.
With elite weapons like London, Robinson, and Pitts, he has the tools to succeed, but his inexperience against top defenses (e.g., Bills, 49ers) could lead to losses
Week 1: Falcons, 20-Tampa Bay 23
Despite a valiant fourth-quarter comeback led by second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr., the Falcons couldn’t overcome a resilient Buccaneers squad, leaving Atlanta fans with a familiar sting of what might have been. Read up on the game.
Week 2: Falcons, 22; Minnesota Vikings, 6
Facing the Vikings in primetime on the road was a tough early test. Minnesota, a second-place finisher in the NFC North in 2024, boasted a potent offense led by Justin Jefferson and a defense that ranked top-10 in points allowed last season.
The Vikings’ home-field advantage at U.S. Bank Stadium and their experience in primetime games tilt the scales. Penix, still adjusting as a starter, struggled against Brian Flores’ blitz-heavy scheme, especially with Atlanta’s offensive line facing pressure. The Falcons’ defense rose to the occasion, flustering JJ McCarthy all night. Falcons win as kicker Parker Romo goes 5-for-5.
Week 3: Falcons 0; Carolina Panthers, 30
The Panthers, a perennial NFC South bottom-dweller, are still rebuilding, but they didn’t show it on this day.
Penix exploits a weak Panthers secondary, and Bijan Robinson dominates on the ground. Even on the road, Atlanta’s superior talent and coaching edge secures a 2-1 record.
Week Falcons 34, Washington Commanders 27
The Commanders, second-place finishers in the NFC East in 2024, were without Jayden Daniels and that was all the leeway the Falcons needed. Penix mastered Dan Quinn’s aggressive defense, using the momentum and Atlanta’s defensive playmaking to steal a tight game.
Week 5: Bye Week
Week 6: Falcons 24, Buffalo 14
The Atlanta Falcons delivered a statement performance on Monday Night Football, dismantling the Buffalo Bills 24-14 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in a game that had Red and Black faithful roaring from the opening kickoff.
With explosive runs, precise passing, and a opportunistic defense, the Falcons improved to 3-2 on the season, marking their second straight victory over a playoff team from last year. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. shone in his steady command of the offense, while the run game terrorized Buffalo’s defense. As the city buzzes with excitement heading into a pivotal matchup against the 49ers, here are five key takeaways from the thrilling upset.
Week 7: at San Francisco 49ers (Away, Oct. 19, Sunday Night Football, 8:20 p.m. ET)
Prediction: Loss
Analysis: The 49ers, despite occasional inconsistency, remain NFC contenders with Kyle Shanahan’s offensive genius and a strong front seven. Playing in Levi’s Stadium on primetime is a daunting task for Penix, who may face relentless pressure from Nick Bosa and company. Atlanta’s defense struggles to stop San Francisco’s run game and play-action passing. Raheem Morris, a former 49ers assistant, keeps it respectable, but the Falcons drop to 3-4.
Week 8: vs. Miami Dolphins (Home, Oct. 26, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Prediction: Win
Analysis: The Dolphins’ high-octane offense, led by Tua Tagovailoa, relies on speed, but their 2024 season showed vulnerabilities against physical defenses. Atlanta’s home advantage and improving defensive front, with Matthew Judon and rookies, disrupt Miami’s rhythm. Penix, gaining confidence, connects with Drake London against a Dolphins secondary that ranked mid-tier in 2024. The Falcons’ balanced attack secures a 4-4 record in a shootout.
Week 9: at New England Patriots (Away, Nov. 2, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Prediction: Win
Analysis: The Patriots, under Mike Vrabel in 2025, are rebuilding with a rookie quarterback or journeyman starter. New England’s defense is tough, but their offense lacks playmakers to exploit Atlanta’s secondary. Penix manages the game well, leaning on Bijan Robinson to control the clock. The Falcons’ pass rush, with Pearce and Walker, overwhelms New England’s offensive line, leading to a 5-4 record with a low-scoring road win.
Week 10: at Indianapolis Colts (Away, Nov. 9, Berlin, Germany, 9:30 a.m. ET)
Prediction: Win
Analysis: The international game pits Atlanta against a Colts team with quarterback uncertainty (Anthony Richardson vs. Daniel Jones). The neutral site levels the playing field, and Atlanta’s offense, with Penix’s growing poise, exploits Indy’s middling defense. The Falcons’ defensive additions contain Indy’s run-heavy approach. Atlanta’s preparation for the Berlin trip, as shown in their 2024 London game, gives them an edge, improving to 6-4.
Week 11: Bye Week
Analysis: The early bye (earliest since 2017) allows Atlanta to rest and refine their game plan, critical for Penix’s development and defensive adjustments under Jeff Ulbrich.
Week 12: vs. New Orleans Saints (Home, Nov. 23, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Prediction: Win
Analysis: The Saints, in rebuild mode with young quarterbacks like Spencer Rattler or Tyler Shough, are vulnerable. Atlanta’s home dominance against New Orleans (4-2 in recent years) continues, with Penix outplaying the Saints’ inexperienced signal-caller. The Falcons’ defense feasts on a depleted Saints offense, and Robinson runs wild, pushing Atlanta to 7-4.
Week 13: at New York Jets (Away, Nov. 30, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Prediction: Loss
Analysis: The Jets, with Justin Fields at quarterback, present a dual-threat challenge. New York’s elite defense, led by Sauce Gardner, stifles Penix and forces turnovers. Atlanta’s pass rush struggles against Fields’ mobility, and the hostile MetLife Stadium environment rattles the young Falcons. Despite a valiant effort, Atlanta falls to 7-5.
Week 14: vs. Carolina Panthers (Home, Dec. 7, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Prediction: Win
Analysis: The second matchup with Carolina is a must-win at home. The Panthers’ lack of offensive firepower and poor road performance play into Atlanta’s hands. Penix, now comfortable in the system, dissects Carolina’s defense, while the Falcons’ front seven shuts down the run. Atlanta cruises to 8-5, solidifying their divisional standing.
Week 15: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Away, Dec. 11, Thursday Night Football, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Prediction: Loss
Analysis: The rematch in Tampa is critical for NFC South positioning. The Buccaneers, motivated by their Week 1 loss, lean on home-field advantage and a veteran roster. Baker Mayfield exploits Atlanta’s secondary, and Tampa’s defense pressures Penix on a short week. The Falcons fight hard but drop to 8-6 in a tight divisional battle.
Week 16: vs. Seattle Seahawks (Home, Dec. 21, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Prediction: Win
Analysis: Seattle, with Sam Darnold at quarterback, is a middle-tier NFC West team. Atlanta’s home advantage and defensive improvements neutralize Seattle’s passing attack. Penix, familiar with Darnold from his 2024 Vikings performance, avoids mistakes, and the Falcons’ run game controls the clock. Atlanta moves to 9-6, keeping playoff hopes alive.
Week 17: vs. Los Angeles Rams (Home, Dec. 29, Monday Night Football, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Prediction: Win
Analysis: This primetime matchup pits Raheem Morris and Zac Robinson against their former team. The Rams, led by Sean McVay, are formidable, the Birds will win.
Week 18: at New Orleans Saints (Away, Jan. 3/4, TBD)
Prediction: Win
Analysis: The season finale in New Orleans could decide the NFC South. The Saints, likely out of playoff contention, lack the firepower to match Atlanta’s offense. Penix, with a full season of experience, outshines New Orleans’ quarterback, and the Falcons’ defense dominates. Atlanta finishes 11-6, potentially clinching the division or a wild-card spot.
How Will the Falcons’ Season End Up?
- Predicted Record: 13-4
- Wins: at Arizona (Week 5), vs. Miami (Week 8), at New England (Week 9), at Indianapolis (Week 10), vs. New Orleans (Week 12), vs. Carolina (Week 14), at Minnesota (Week 2), vs. Washington (Week 4), vs. Buffalo (Week 6), at San Francisco (Week 7), at New York Jets (Week 13), vs. Seattle (Week 16), vs. Los Angeles (Week 17),
- Losses: (1) vs. Tampa Bay (Week 1), at Carolina (Week 3); at Tampa Bay (Week 15); at New Orleans (Week 18).
- Playoff Outlook: An 13-4 record likely secures the NFC South title, given Tampa Bay’s challenges and the weak division, or at least a wild-card spot. The Falcons’ favorable strength of schedule, offensive talent, and defensive upgrades support a playoff return after a seven-year drought.
Final Word
Can the Falcons win it all this year? It all depends on a lot of factors, including injuries, Penix’s maturity and the defense’s ability to turn the ball over.
The Falcons ranked 31st in sacks and 23rd in total defense in 2024, leading to Jimmy Lake’s firing. Jeff Ulbrich’s scheme, paired with draft picks Jalon Walker, James Pearce Jr., and Xavier Watts, aims to boost the pass rush and secondary. Success against mobile quarterbacks (e.g., Fields, Murray) and strong offenses (e.g., Buffalo, Miami) will determine their ceiling.