Game Preview: Atlanta Falcons vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Atlanta Falcons, currently standing at 6-6, will face off against the Minnesota Vikings, who boast a record of 10-2, this Sunday at 1 p.m. EST, with the game being broadcast on Fox. According to BetMGM, the Vikings are favored to win by 5.5 points. In terms of performance against the spread this season, Atlanta has a record of 5-7 while Minnesota has fared slightly better at 7-5. Over the years, the Vikings have held a significant advantage in the series, leading 21-12, and they narrowly edged out the Falcons in their last encounter on November 5, 2023, with a score of 31-28.
Last week, the Falcons fell short against the Chargers, losing a close match 17-13, whereas the Vikings managed to secure a victory over the Cardinals, finishing 23-22. This season, Atlanta’s offensive stats are impressive, ranking 8th overall, with passing offense placed 4th and rushing at 14th, but their scoring only ranks 19th. However, their defense has struggled, falling to 21st overall, 17th against the run, 22nd in pass defense, and 22nd in scoring. Minnesota’s offense is slightly lower ranked at 13th overall, struggling particularly in the running game at 17th, while they have a solid passing game sitting at 10th and rank 9th in scoring. Their defense presents a contrasting picture, ranking 13th overall, 1st against the run, but 28th in pass defense, with a strong scoring defense at 5th.
Key players to watch for the Falcons include quarterback Kirk Cousins, who returns to his former home in Minnesota during a troubling phase of his career. Recently, Cousins had a shocking performance, throwing four interceptions against the Chargers, bringing his total to six interceptions with no touchdowns in the past three games. This slump has raised doubts about his position, leading to discussions regarding rookie Michael Penix Jr.’s potential to take over, although coach Raheem Morris remains supportive of Cousins. On the Vikings’ side, cornerback Byron Murphy stands out with five interceptions this season, ranking him third in the NFL. His role will be crucial, especially if fellow cornerback Stephon Gilmore is unable to play due to injury.
A critical matchup to observe will be between the Falcons’ defensive backs and the Vikings’ star wide receiver Justin Jefferson. Atlanta’s safeties, Jesse Bates and Justin Simmons, built impressive reputations last season as Pro Bowl selections and will likely be tasked with containing Jefferson, who has still managed to accumulate 1,038 receiving yards this season despite facing consistent double coverage.
In terms of injuries, the Falcons have defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro trying to recover from an ankle issue, although he may not return this week. Linebacker Troy Andersen participated fully in practice, while JD Bertrand was limited due to a concussion. The Falcons are monitoring their wide receivers Drake London and Darnell Mooney for minor injuries. On the Vikings’ side, cornerback Gilmore’s participation is uncertain after he left the last game with a hamstring injury, and tight end Josh Oliver is expected to return after missing two games with an ankle issue. The Vikings also welcome back long snapper Andrew DePaola after a hand injury.
Historically, the Vikings have excelled against the Falcons, winning five out of the last six encounters. Atlanta’s sole victory during this period came during the pandemic in a game without fans in 2020. Notably, both franchises have faced off in memorable playoff games in the past, reinforcing the competitive nature of their rivalry.
As for statistics and player performances, wide receiver London is on the verge of an impressive feat, aiming to become the first player in franchise history with at least 65 receptions in each of his first three seasons. Kicker Younghoe Koo, despite a hip injury that led Atlanta to sign an emergency backup last week, has had a solid season. Meanwhile, tight end Kyle Pitts has seen limited touches recently, and running back Bijan Robinson set a personal best with 26 carries last week. On the Vikings’ end, quarterback Sam Darnold has achieved consistent passer ratings above 100 in numerous games this season, tying him with franchise legends.
For fantasy football enthusiasts, it’s worth noting Cousins’ inconsistency in terms of touchdowns this season, as he has been unable to find the end zone in multiple games. Additionally, the Vikings’ defense is excelling this year, leading the league with 18 interceptions and having achieved at least one turnover in each game, something not seen since the 2001 season.
