The NFC South isn't that far behind the NFC East.
Compare the two divisions, since 2002.
NFC title appearancesNFC East - 4: 2002-2004 (Eagles); 2007 (Giants).
NFC South - 5: 2002 (Bucs); 2003, 2005 (Panthers); 2004 (Falcons); 2006 (Saints).
NFC TitlesNFC East - 2: 2004 (Eagles); 2007 (Giants)
NFC South - 2: 2002 (Bucs); 2003 (Panthers)
Super Bowl winsNFC East - 1: 2007 (Giants)
NFC South - 1: 2002 (Bucs)
Head-to-head Playoff winsNFC South - 5, NFC East - 4.
2002: Eagles def. Falcons
2002: Bucs def. Eagles
2003: Panthers def. Cowboys
2003: Panthers def. Eagles
2004: Eagles def. Falcons
2005: Redskins def. Bucs
2005: Panthers def. Giants
2006: Saints def. Eagles
2007: Giants def. Bucs
Records this season (thus far)NFC East:
Cowboys 3-0
Giants 3-0
Redskins 2-1
Eagles 2-1
NFC South:
Falcons 2-1
Panthers 2-1
Bucs 2-1
Saints 1-2
We could see some more matchups in the playoffs.
Wouldn't be surprised to see all of the NFC East in the playoffs.
That's not possible. There are only two wildcard spots.