Vikings vs. Falcons | Key Personnel Battles

Vikings vs. Falcons | Key Personnel Battles

Vikings can expect a Falcons team that is out of form with three straight losses but desperate for a win to halt their season slipping away. A win for the Vikings would create a hefty gap between themselves and the Green Bay Packers in the NFC North while keeping them just one game back from division leaders, the Detroit Lions. If the Vikings are going to win, here are some of the key personnel battles they need to come out on top of.

Brian Flores vs. Kirk Cousins

Minnesota knows Kirk Cousins can be rattled if you put him under pressure. They also know he is good at reading the blitz and getting the ball out quickly. The Vikings have often struggled to get pressure up front without blitzing, and it’s an issue that Brian Flores needs to solve — not only for this week but also for the big games against the Packers and Lions that are on the horizon. 

Pro Football Focus ranks second among running backs across the league. I expect quick passes and screens to Robinson to be a big part of the Falcons’ offensive game plan.

Sam Darnold vs. The Falcons Secondary

When opposing teams come to play the Vikings, the question is whether their defense will stick to their tendencies or the Justin Jefferson effect will cause them to change completely. The Falcons operate almost entirely from a three-high shell, running either Cover 3 or 3 Seam 41.8% of the time. Darnold has had great success against that look this season, but will the Falcons stick to it or go down the route most do and give Jefferson special attention?

One Viking Leads the League in Rather Important Stat

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