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When the Atlanta Falcons' upset bid fizzled Monday night in frosty Green Bay, it officially ensured the the NFC South champion would not be a winning team.

For fans who have followed the division's struggles in 2014, that should come as no surprise.

But what might be a surprise is that with three games left, three teams have a decent shot to win the division.

The Carolina Panthers (4-8-1), who thumped the New Orleans Saints last week to break a six-game losing streak, are a half-game behind the Saints (5-8) and Falcons (5-8).

Check out Gene Guillot's post for a concise look at the race. For a longer explanation, dive in:

Which teams control their own destiny?

The Saints and Falcons. If the Saints go 3-0, they win the division. If the Falcons do the same, they will be champions.

Who has the tiebreaker?

The Falcons will win the tiebreaker over the Saints regardless of what happens in their second head-to-head meeting on Dec. 21 because of their superior record in division games.

Do the Panthers have to win out?

Not at all. If the Panthers go 2-1 and both the Saints and Falcons go 1-2, the Panthers are champs at 6-9-1. It doesn't matter which games the Panthers win (or the others lose). Carolina could even lose to Atlanta on the final day of the regular season and still win the division under certain scenarios.

Read more: 128 ways the crazy NFC South race could end: A guide to the final 3 weeks | NOLA.com

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Everyone is entitled to be stupid, but some abuse the privilege.

All little common sense goes a long way.