Atlanta Falcons: What are the key matchups against the Vikings?

Sep 28, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) throws during the third quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Falcons 41-28. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

With the Packers losing on Thanksgiving, the Vikings have a chance to sit alone at the top of the NFC North once again. How do you see the division race panning out?

AC: Technically, the Vikings are currently on top of the NFC North according to win percentage, but that doesn’t tell the actual story. Minnesota has an incredibly hard schedule coming up and have already lost once to the Green Bay Packers. In order to push a possible tiebreaker in favor of the Vikings, Minnesota has to travel to Green Bay and get a win.

But the team can’t afford to think ahead that far, as Atlanta is a team that must have the Vikings full attention. Right now, I still see the NFC North as a toss up, but Green Bay have dominated too long not to consider them favorites.

Outside of Adrian Peterson, what should the Falcons be most concerned about in this game?

AC: Atlanta should be aware of a hard hitting team that is focused on fundamentals. The Falcons have made a living off picking up yards after the catch and having a punishing ground attack.

However, the Minnesota Vikings could make things very difficult for the Falcons by limiting their opportunities through solid tackling and smart football. Shutting down Atlanta’s offense might be impossible, but I think that Minnesota has a chance of containing them.

Next: What's the biggest matchup in this game?