NFC South Notes: Drake London’s Status, Chuba Hubbard’s Breakout, and a Panthers Team That’s Suddenly in the Hunt
As we head into the stretch run of the regular season, two NFC South teams are trending in very different directions - but both have compelling storylines worth watching. From Drake London’s injury status in Atlanta to Chuba Hubbard’s emergence in Carolina and the Panthers’ unexpected playoff push, there’s no shortage of intrigue.
Falcons Monitoring Drake London’s Knee Injury
The Falcons are keeping a close eye on wide receiver Drake London as they prepare for a pivotal Week 14 matchup against the Seahawks. London, who’s dealing with a knee injury, didn’t participate in Wednesday’s practice, but there’s cautious optimism around Flowery Branch.
Head coach Raheem Morris described London as “day-to-day” and noted that while the wideout isn’t practicing just yet, he’s staying active with side work and running drills. “We’ll check him out,” Morris said, leaving the door open for a possible return this week.
For an Atlanta offense that’s been searching for consistency in the passing game, London’s availability could be a difference-maker. His size, catch radius, and ability to win contested balls have made him a go-to target when healthy. If he’s able to suit up against Seattle, it would provide a much-needed boost for a Falcons team still trying to find its footing in a crowded NFC playoff picture.
Chuba Hubbard’s Moment Arrives in Carolina
It’s been a long road for Chuba Hubbard in Carolina - five seasons of hard work, flashes of potential, and a whole lot of patience. But in the Panthers’ recent win over the Packers, Hubbard finally had the kind of breakout moment he’s been working toward since day one.
“I prayed so many times for moments like this,” Hubbard said after the game. “I’ve been in Carolina five years now, and the goal has always been to bring wins to Carolina, bring good football to Carolina. No matter how that looks.”
Hubbard’s performance was more than just a strong stat line - it was a tone-setter. He ran with purpose, vision, and energy, and it clearly resonated with his teammates and coaches.
“He looked explosive, and he looked strong,” said head coach Dave Canales. “He really brought an attitude to our group.
You could feel it on the sideline - the way he was running, the way he was making yards. All he wants to do is win.”
That mindset has earned Hubbard plenty of respect in the locker room, including from fellow running back Rico Dowdle, who’s also seen his share of touches this season. “That guy works harder than anybody I’ve ever seen,” Dowdle said.
“First on the field, first in the building, last off the field doing extra. It’s great seeing him get back to that and have it pay off.”
For Hubbard, the numbers matter less than the wins. “Whether I get the ball a thousand times or not, I just want to win,” he said. “That’s been my goal since I came to Carolina - to win, win, win.”
Panthers’ Playoff Push Gains Steam
Don’t look now, but the Carolina Panthers are very much alive in the NFC South race. After their upset win over the Rams in Week 13, the Panthers improved to 7-6 and now sit just half a game behind the division-leading Buccaneers - with two head-to-head matchups still on the schedule.
It’s a remarkable turn for a team that’s spent much of the season flying under the radar. But with four games left and a bye week to rest and regroup, Carolina is in position to control its own destiny.
Head coach Dave Canales knows what’s at stake and isn’t shying away from the moment. As the team heads into the bye, his message was clear: stay focused, stay smart, and protect what they’ve built.
“Guys are free to do and go wherever they want to go,” Canales said. “My message to them is just like, ‘Look what we’re playing for.
Look what we’re working for. Let’s be smart.
Let’s take care of our bodies and make sure we move within reason.’”
Hubbard echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of staying locked in even during the break. “To be honest, every week is a must-win,” he said.
“We’re gonna go into this bye week, rest up, study, take the lessons from everything that’s happened and just keep moving forward. Try to finish the season.”
What’s Next
For the Falcons, London’s status will be one of the biggest storylines to watch this week. Atlanta needs all hands on deck as they try to stay in the mix, and London’s presence could tilt the balance against a Seahawks team fighting for playoff positioning of their own.
In Carolina, the bye week comes at the perfect time. The team is hot, Hubbard is rolling, and the locker room believes. With two games left against Tampa Bay, the Panthers have a legitimate shot at flipping the NFC South on its head.
It’s December football - and in the NFC South, things are just getting interesting.