Rate The Alternate Jerseys: NFC South

It's time to move to football in the Rate The Alternate Jerseys series. Today's division is the NFC South. This division sports four colorful teams that seem to be, other than Charlotte, residing in big party cities. This should be fun...

ATLANTA FALCONS

Originality: C-

Aesthetic Appeal: B-

Overall Grade: C+

This jersey reminds me a lot of the old Buffalo Sabres jerseys in the late 90's and early 00's. Swapping a red and black jersey for an alternate is done a lot, so no high marks for originality. However, all black jerseys are generally viewed as "bad ass" by the public, including me, so I give them slightly higher Aesthetic Appeal and Overall grades. Bottom line: NOT VERY ORIGINAL, STILL PRETTY AWESOME.

CAROLINA PANTHERS

Originality: A-

Aesthetic Appeal: B

Overall Grade: B+

I might get some flack for giving these jerseys such high ratings, but hear me out. The Panthers became the first team to feature its SIGNIFICANTLY brighter color in a uniform (not including Dolphins who only have bright colors, the Broncos for orange over blue, etc.) This was teal, TEAL! and black. The Panthers black jerseys look badass, especially at night. But these ones seem to shine in day games against divisional opponents. And to be truthful, they look pretty damn good in action. I say it's a good jersey.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

Originality: C+

Aesthetic Appeal: B+

Overall Grade: B

The Buccaneers have officially made their old creamsicle jerseys their alternate jerseys, and that is a bold move. I would normally give a throwback jersey a C for Originality, but to have the balls to bring back uniforms that saw nothing but heartbreak and basement dwelling during their tenure is gutsy. The jerseys are refreshing in these overly modern NFL jersey days. I give them a solid grade overall and again commend Tampa Bay for its brashness.

As has been the case in the NBA and NHL divisions we have gone over so far, there is a usually a team in a division with no alternate jersey, and that is true for the NFC South as well. The Saints do not have an official alternate jersey. They mix and match with black and white tops and gold and black pants a fair amount, however. Not having an alternate jersey has not stopped the Saints from winning the Super Bowl though, so I think they should just stick with what works.