Week 13 game grades: Minnesota Vikings vs. Atlanta Falcons

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ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 03: Head coach Mike Zimmer of the Minnesota Vikings looks on from the sidelines during the first half against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 3, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

Minnesota Vikings defensive grade: A-

The Vikings defense had a challenge on Sunday facing an elite offensive group. But this unit stepped up and showed that defense win games.

Julio Jones was coming off 200-yard receiving performance. Then he faced off against Xavier Rhodes who held Jones to two catches for 24 yards. Rhodes didn’t allow Jones any space and was physical with the wide receiver.

Early in the game, the Falcons were having success running the ball on first down. They continued to get solid run gains until Mike Zimmer made an adjustment to his defense.

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) /

Zimmer started sending Harrison Smith on blitzes that stopped the run and forced quick passes. This adjustment made by Zimmer was a key and Smith is one of the best tackling safeties in the NFL.

Another key to the Vikings defense success was their ability to get off the field on third down. The Falcons only were 1/10 on third down conversions. This was important for the team as in past seasons the Vikings struggled to get off on third downs.

Overall, the Vikings defense looked like the best defense in the league. They may not have forced any turnovers or sacks but they did the small things. They held the Falcons to field goals instead of touchdowns, they got off the field on third down and finally, they did not let their superstars beat them.

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