NFC south.(NFL)

ATLANTA FALCONS

Ike Reese is expected to replace MLB Ed Hartwell, who was lost for the season with a torn Achilles' tendon. Reese (6-2,222) has the speed to play all three linebacker spots, but he lacks the bulk to play inside. He's best suited as a backup so he can save his burst for special teams. The team valued Hartwell, a physical run stopper, for his ability to plug the middle of the field and allow WLB Keith Brooking to disrupt formations and pursue the quarterback.... Now that nickel back Chris Cash (broken arm) likely is out for the season, CB Allen Rossum must shore up his deficiencies in coverage with better technique. His 30-yard pass interference penalty on the Patriots' final drive led to a game-winning field goal PROBLEM SPOT: The team needs to light a fire under WRs Michael Jenkins and Dez White. Jenkins doesn't always run his routes aggressively, and White had lapses in concentration that cost him two catches against the Patriots. Brian Finneran deserves a starting job over Jenkins. Rookie Roddy White has the ability to take Dez White's job, but his inexperience--he continues to make wrong reads--is an issue.--George Henry

CAROLINA PANTHERS

Some thought DeShaun Foster would emerge as the feature back this season, but it hasn't happened. He still fumbles too much, and he's not a great fit in a ball-control offense. Foster is at his best running outside the tackles, which means he won't get an abundance of carries in the team's physical rushing game. Fosters biggest contribution has been as a receiver, a role in which he can use his speed in the open field.... Second-year TE Michael Gaines has earned more playing time and a bigger role. Gaines (6-3, 280) has excellent size and is prospering because he has worked hard on his blocking--the top priority for the team's tight ends. Gaines also has decent receiving skills and will continue to get more opportunities. PROBLEM SPOT: With Ken Lucas emerging as a shutdown cornerback, opponents are challenging Chris Gamble on the other side and succeeding. Gamble has good size (6-1,200) and speed and has shown good instincts for the ball, but he has regressed after a solid rookie season. He's not very physical for his size, and receivers are getting separation from him. He needs to be more aggressive.--Pat Yasinskas

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