Atlanta Falcons vs. Vikings Predictions: Big showdown equals big win?
By Randy Gurzi
Writer: Yuriy Andriyashchuk
Week 13- Atlanta Falcons (7-4) vs Minnesota Vikings (9-2)
Breakdown: The Atlanta Falcons are on a roll right now as they’ve won three games in a row, doing so without running back Devonta Freeman. The Falcons will now begin a three-game home stand which kicks off with a crucial matchup vs the surprising 9-2 Minnesota Vikings.
Matt Ryan and the Falcons’ explosive offense will be facing the fifth ranked defense in the NFL. Due to this matchup, I expect offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian to decide to call plays through the air rather than rely on the running game vs a resilient Vikings defensive line. Expect Matt Ryan to attempt at least 35 passes and go for the deep ball as he has in Atlanta’s previous three wins. Look for Ryan to also call some play action passes in the red zone to throw the defensive line off guard as Minnesota will expect many runs up by the middle by Tevin Coleman in these situations. The Falcons may also get some help in the backfield as starting running back Devonta Freeman is hopeful to play this week, per Head Coach Dan Quinn.
Vikings’ Quarterback Case Keenum has done an excellent job this year keeping drives going in what has been known as a very underrated offense. Wide Receiver Stefon Diggs will have a solid game vs Atlanta but I expect Julio Jones to have another excellent game in a battle of star wide receivers. Atlanta’s passing game will be effective as they will make up for a Desmond Trufant-less secondary.
Next: Falcons will play without a key starter Sunday
The Falcons will be locked in a shootout with the Vikings but as the smoke clears, they will prevail with an upset over a red-hot Minnesota team.
Final: Falcons 28 Vikings 24