Coach Mike Smith says 10-1 Falcons must fix mistakes before they become one of the NFL's elite

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – Leading the NFC with a 10-1 record isn't nearly enough to satisfy Atlanta Falcons coach Mike Smith.

His team is playing too many close games and still making too many mistakes for Smith to say that Atlanta is one of the NFL's few elite teams.

He will only say that if the Falcons keep winning, they will put themselves in position to earn a top playoff seed.

With just three days to prepare for Thursday night's home game against New Orleans, Smith wants his team to clean up inconsistencies in the running game, red-zone offense and pass rush.

Atlanta's declining turnover margin needs attention, too. Injuries to cornerbacks Asante Samuel and Dunta Robinson are another concern.

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