Best 2014 NFL Games to See in the South

The South is college football country, but that doesn't mean there isn't a place for Sunday's finest as well.  The rise of the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons in recent years has led to increased interest in professional football in the region.  So if you wish to catch an NFL game this season, here's some of the better ones in the region:

New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons; September 7th

The first meeting of the year between these fierce rivals should set the tone for the rest of the season.  The Falcons were a disappointment last year, but with a healthy team back they should be much improved this season.  The Saints have been one of the most consistent franchises in the league over the past decade, and they have championship aspirations.  It's a game that should be full of former Bama players, highlighted by Mark Ingram for the Saints and Julio Jones for the Falcons.

Dallas Cowboys at Tennessee Titans; September 14th

The Dallas Cowboys are one of the premier franchises in the NFL, but it has been a long time since they lived up to the level of play expected of those who wear the Star.  This renews an old rivalry as the Titans were once the Houston Oilers, who had a string of winning seasons in the 1980's.

Pittsburgh Steelers at Carolina Panthers; September 21st

The Panthers are emerging as one of the best teams in the NFL after last season's division title.  The Steelers have won more Super Bowls than any other franchise.  It's past meets present when these two face off.

Chicago Bears at Carolina Panthers; October 5th

The Bears have been just outside of contention for several seasons now, and beating the Panthers would be a great way to show they are for real this year.  Carolina has a couple of big home games early this season, so if they're true contenders, we'll know pretty early.

Chicago Bears at Atlanta Falcons; October 12th

The Bears' southern tour continues the following week as they head to Atlanta.  A win here would be crucial for the Falcons who wish to regain the home-field advantage they lost last year.

Green Bay Packers at New Orleans Saints; October 26th

Aaron Rodgers vs. Drew Brees in the Superdome.  That's all you really need to know.

New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers; November 2nd

The Saints gave up their long-held control of the NFC South when the Panthers won the division last season.  Revenge will be on the Saints' minds as they had several chances to beat the Panthers in Carolina last year, but failed to pull through.

San Francisco 49ers at New Orleans Saints; November 9th

San Fran might have been the best team in the NFL last year, and could be the best this year as well.  The Saints' high-flying offense will go up against the 49ers' staunch defense.  The Niners have been a thorn in the Saints' side in the playoffs, so a win would send a message that New Orleans can take on a solid defensive team.

Atlanta Falcons at Carolina Panthers; November 16th

If the Falcons want to become contenders again, they'll have to get past the Panthers in Charlotte.  Atlanta's weapons on offense will have a tough time against the Panthers' young and hungry defense.

Baltimore Ravens at New Orleans Saints; November 24th

This should be a decent game, but the main attraction here is that it's Monday Night Football in New Orleans.  Nobody does a party like the Big Easy, and the Superdome will be a madhouse for MNF.

Arizona Cardinals at Atlanta Falcons; November 30th

The Cards were overshadowed last year by their NFC West brethren Seattle and San Francisco.  But Arizona might have one of the best young teams in the league, highlighted by a ball-hawking secondary that gives opposing QBs fits.  Atlanta's Matt Ryan will have a battle on his hands.

Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints; December 7th

After battling in Charlotte earlier in the season, the Saints get their incredible crowd back for the second meeting with the Panthers.  Cam Newton's growth as a QB will be tested in one of the most intimidating environments in the NFL.

Pittsburgh Steelers at Atlanta Falcons; December 14th

Steeler Nation heads to the ATL for a late season match-up that should be a lot of fun for fans of both teams.

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints; December 21st

After meeting in the season opener, these rivals meet again late in the season, this time in the Superdome.  It is sure to be one of the best atmospheres for an NFL game this year.

Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons; December 28th

The Falcons end the season with two straight division games.  The NFC South race will be tight, so it might all come down to this match-up.

Indianapolis Colts at Tennessee Titans; December 28th

The Colts used to torture the Titans with Peyton Manning.  Now they're doing it with Andrew Luck.  The Titans will look to ends years of misery in this one by knocking off what should be a heavily favored Indy team.