Game Summary

As we approach this season’s, regular season finish line, Sunday provides an intriguing, conference showdown – with the Atlanta Falcons (7-4) hosting the surprising, NFC North-leading Minnesota Vikings (9-2). The Vikings are riding an impressive, eight (8) game, winning streak into Mercedes Benz Stadium against the resurging, 2017 NFC Champion Falcons. Minnesota leads the all-time series 17-10 with them winning the last, head-to-head matchup in 2015 by the score of 20-10.

Tale of the Tape

Falcons Offense (currently ranked 6th) vs. Vikings Defense (currently ranked 5th)

The Falcons offense – that put up historic numbers last year under Kyle Shanahan – struggled early this season under first year, offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian. However, over the last three games it appears that they may have found their identity – averaging 30+ points per game.

The Vikings defense boasts one of the league’s more talented secondaries – while only surrendering 17.7 points per game. Their relentless front seven has tallied 12 sacks and allowed 3.4 yards per carry – against some of the more prolific offensive teams.

Vikings Offense (currently ranked 5th) vs. Falcons Defense (currently ranked 10th)

The Vikings offense has been surprisingly explosive behind backup QB – Case Keenum. Their wideouts – Diggs and Thielen – have made spectacular plays all year, despite a fairly, modest running game. The speedy, Falcons defense has held their own early but have become notorious for surrendering leads in the second half. The health of Desmond Trufant could come into play as he has yet to be released from the NFL’s concussion protocol. The Falcons will definitely need him to have any chance of containing the Vikings’ pass attack.

Keys to the Game

ATLANTA wins if:

Offensively – Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman have success in the run and the offensive line gives Matt Ryan the protection to get into a rhythm and find holes in the Vikings defense. An effective run game will also keep the offense off the field while giving a banged up, Falcons defense time to rest.

Defensively – Vic Beasley, Takk McKinley and Adrian Clayborn pressure (and punish) Case Keenum. The DTs/LBs must also contain the run and screen game by tackling well and staying disciplined. The secondary (namely Robert Alford) has got to eliminate unnecessary penalties.

Special Teams – Establish good field position on kickoffs and eliminate the recent lapses during kickoffs. Giving Keenum starts near/at midfield can cause this game to get out of hand.

MINNESOTA wins if:

Offensively – The Vikings offensive line gives Case Keenum time. Period.

Defensively – Focus on stopping the run. Get pressure on Matt Ryan and force him to throw into tight coverages. Do not risk single coverage on Julio Jones! Don’t lose sight of Austin Hooper on TE screens.

Special Teams – Establish good field position and put pressure on Atlanta special teams mistakes. Capitalize on field goal opportunities.

Score Prediction

Aside from having the home field advantage, I think the return of the two-headed backfield of Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman will help open up the passing lanes enough for Matt Ryan to exploit a very good secondary. Also, expect a wild card receiver (namely Taylor Gabriel, Austin Hooper or one of the RB in the flats) to take advantage of the massive amounts of attention likely paid to Julio Jones and Mohamed Sanu. While Minnesota will move the ball with playmakers Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen, Atlanta’s front four will stop Minnesota’s running game and pressure Keenum enough to prevent explosive plays downfield. Expect a late field goal from “Money” Matt Bryant to give the Falcons the victory in a competitive, exciting game!

Atlanta 27, Minnesota 24