One of the biggest games in the NFL this week is the NFC showdown between the Minnesota Vikings and Atlanta Falcons. The game will be played at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday, and is scheduled to begin at 1:05 PM. ET.
Vikings vs Falcons Odds
Point Spread and Over/Under
- Minnesota Vikings +3
- Atlanta Falcons -3
- Over/Under 47
My Pick
Minnesota Vikings Analysis…
The Vikings currently have the second best record in the NFC, and a three game lead in the NFC North. They are only one game behind the Philadelphia Eagles in the conference making this a game they can’t afford to lose.
The Vikings weren’t expected to be this good after losing Sam Bradford and Dalvin Cook to season- ending injuries, have been playing very well on both sides of the ball.
Case Keenum, who was signed to backup Bradford during the offseason, has been playing at a very high level this season, and has been a big part of the team’s success.
Keenum, who was benched for Jared Goff in Los Angeles last year, has been able to hold on to the starting job despite Teddy Bridgewater finally being cleared to return to the field. If he continues playing well the rest of the way, the Vikings will have a tough decision to make during the offseason.
Atlanta Falcons Analysis…
The Falcons looked in danger of missing the playoffs a year after playing in the Super Bowl, after going through a stretch where they lost four out of five games. Since then, the Falcons have won three straight games and find themselves back in the mix of the NFC South division race.
Julio Jones will see a lot of bodies being sent his way after having a breakout game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. Jones finished the game with 12 catches for 253 yards and two touchdowns.
If the Vikings can’t keep Jones in check this week, they will have a hard time winning this game.
The Falcons will also have to do a great job protecting Matt Ryan as they are going up against one of the top defenses in the league.
If Ryan has enough time to find open receivers, he should be able to move the ball against Minnesota’s stingy defense.
Atlanta’s offense has not been as effective as it was last season, but they seem to be back on track after scoring less than 20 points in three of four games. Since that stretch, the Falcons are averaging 30.6 points per game, helping them win their last three games.
Final word…
Atlanta should have the advantage at home, but the Vikings have only one loss on the road this year, so I’m picking Minnesota to cover the spread. Take Minnesota +3.
Play: Vikings +3
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