ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 03: Case Keenum #7 of the Minnesota Vikings shakes hands with Brooks Reed #50 of the Atlanta Falcons after winning the game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 3, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 03: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons is tackled by Anthony Barr #55 of the Minnesota Vikings during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 3, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
The bad things from Week 13 vs Falcons
The opening possessions. Minnesota failed to move the ball into Atlanta territory during their opening possession and then they allowed the Falcons defense a long drive that resulted in a field goal. Not a good start against a team that can turn on the heat at any time.
Third down conversions. The Vikings are one of the better teams in the NFL at picking up first downs, but they struggled against an underrated Falcons defense. While that isn’t a surprise, Minnesota needed to be more efficient in their play.
Time management. As much as I like the Vikings, they always struggle when facing the clock. The decision to throw the ball into the middle of the field with no timeouts and very little time left was a bad decision that left them going into halftime without putting more points on the scoreboard.
Returning punts. There was one occasion where Marcus Sherels could have returned a punt but instead opted to wave for a fair catch. This could have given Minnesota better field position, even if it didn’t have too much of a negative impact on the outcome.
Getting pressure, but no sacks. The pass rush did seem to get to Matt Ryan, but couldn’t bring down the Falcons quarterback once during the game. There were a few opportunities, but they could not be taken advantage of.
