Saints Defeat Falcons 23-13 and Secure Playoff Spot

Rookie cornerback Marshon Lattimore made an unexpected interception when the ball hit his back, and the New Orleans Saints defeated the Atlanta Falcons 23-13 on Sunday to secure their spot in the postseason.

New Orleans' defense stopped their rivals twice within their own two-yard line to advance to the playoffs, something they hadn't achieved since 2013.

Ted Ginn caught a 54-yard touchdown pass just a few plays after Lattimore's interception and shortly before halftime. Mark Ingram made an impressive cut to escape and ran for a 26-yard touchdown for the Saints (11-4), who maintained their narrow lead in the NFC South Division heading into the final week of the season.

The loss eliminated the Falcons' (9-6) chances of winning the NFC South Division. However, Atlanta can still secure a playoff spot if they defeat Carolina in their final game, the day before New Year's Day.

The Falcons entered the game with the possibility of winning their second consecutive division title, but they needed to beat New Orleans. They wasted numerous opportunities to do so, much to the delight of the Superdome crowd.

Some spectators mocked the Falcons with a sign that read "28-3, Merry Christmas," referring to the lead Atlanta blew in the last Super Bowl.