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Panthers crush Falcons 34-3, roll into playoffs

Carolina Panthers safety Roman Harper, right, celebrates intercepting Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan and returning the ball for a touchdown, with Frank Alexander, left, during the second quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 28, 2014, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Atlanta Journal Constitution, Curtis Compton) Carolina Panthers safety Roman Harper, right, celebrates intercepting Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan and returning the ball for a touchdown, with Frank Alexander, left, during the second quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 28, 2014, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Atlanta Journal Constitution, Curtis Compton)

By Associated Press December 28, 2014 1 min read

ATLANTA (AP) – Roman Harper and Tre Boston returned interceptions for touchdowns as Carolina’s defense led the Panthers to a 34-3 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday to win the NFC South.

Carolina (7-8-1) will host a wild-card playoff game next week. The Panthers have won four straight, but still are the first team to enter the playoffs with a losing record since 2010, when Seattle was 7-9.

Harper scored on a 31-yard return in the second quarter and Boston helped clinch the win with his 84-yard interception return late in the third quarter. A 33-yard fumble return by Thomas Davis set up another touchdown.

The Falcons (6-10) were booed as they finished their second straight losing season under embattled coach Mike Smith.

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Online: AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL

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