Part 6/11:
Panthers and Falcons: These teams exemplify the season's unpredictability. The Panthers started with a stunning 30-0 victory over a division rival, only to be shellacked the next week, yet then rallied with a standout rookie performance by Rico Dowdle. The Falcons, after a shutout loss, defeated playoff-caliber teams like the Bills and Commanders, shocking many observers.
Defensive Surges: The Atlanta Falcons’ turnaround is especially notable—they evolved from one of the league's worst pass defenses to a formidable unit, collecting 10 sacks and 17 quarterback hits in key games, exemplifying the season's thematic unpredictability.