Minnesota Vikings @ Atlanta Falcons: Preview, Keys to Victory and Prediction
Sep 28, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes (29) breaks up a pass intended for Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) during the third quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Falcons 41-28. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Keys to Victory
Contain Julio Jones
Xavier Rhodes has been a mixed bag this season, showing some flashes of brilliance while also showing some flashes of “what are you doing?”. In all likelihood, he’ll be matched up with Julio Jones often on Sunday, who sits right next to Calvin Johnson as his biggest test of the season. Jones leads the NFL in receiving yards (1,189) and has been a big play machine all season. Moreover, Jones has topped nine catches and 137 yards in each of his past three games.
On the bright side, when the Vikings and Falcons met last season, Rhodes played pretty darn good against both Jones and Roddy White. According to Pro Football Focus, Rhodes was targeted 11 times in that game and only allowed five catches for 66 yards. Additionally, when matched up with Jones, he allowed just two catches for 27 yards.
Ryan has relied heavily on Jones all season, and taking away his go-to target would probably throw Ryan off enough to swing this game in favor of Minnesota.
Offensive line must rebound
I’ve touched on this already, but it’s worth mentioning again. This unit was absolutely dreadful last week, both in the running game and especially in pass protection.
Atlanta’s offensive line has sacked opposing quarterbacks just twelve times this season, which is last in the NFL. If the Vikings let this defensive line get to Bridgewater often, there will be some serious changes needed to this offensive line.
Win special teams battle
I’ve used this as a key to victory before, and I’m going to again because Minnesota’s special teams has been so good this season. In many games this season, a key special teams play late in the game has helped the Vikings to victory.
Last week against Green Bay, the Vikings were outplayed on special teams for the first time in a long time. The Packers were able to generate a number of solid returns and win the field position battle.
If the Vikings can gain the advantage in this aspect on Sunday, it would really help them win this game that they desperately need.
Next: Vikings @ Falcons: Prediction