Vikings Flashback: Minnesota throttles Atlanta in 2019 season opener
By Ali Siddiqui
The Minnesota Vikings defeated the Atlanta Falcons in the 2019 season opener.
The 1-4 Minnesota Vikings and 0-5 Atlanta Falcons are set to face off on Sunday and both teams have had rough seasons, to say the least. Two of Minnesota’s losses were by one point, including last week at Seattle and three of Atlanta’s losses have been by seven points or less. Plus, Atlanta dismissed head coach Dan Quinn after last week’s loss.
Last season the Vikings defeated the Falcons 28-12 in week one at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Kirk Cousins went 8/10 for 98 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for a touchdown. Dalvin Cook rushed for 111 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries. Adam Thielen had three receptions for 43 yards and a touchdown.
The defense recorded four sacks and two interceptions (both by Anthony Harris). Harrison Smith and Jayron Kearse each tied with a game-high of nine tackles.
The Vikings finished the season at 10-6 and advanced to the divisional round of the playoffs.
For Atlanta, Matt Ryan went 33/46 for 304 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. Austin Hooper had nine receptions for 77 yards. Julio Jones had six receptions for 31 yards a touchdown.
Minnesota is 20-11 all-time against Atlanta, including the previous four meetings resulting in a Vikings win.
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The Minnesota Vikings are not likely to make the playoffs this season, but any positivity the rest of the season could bring the team and its fans some hope heading into 2021. The play of the rookies has been a nice silver lining and will be among the things to watch for the rest of the season. Ezra Cleveland is now expected to finally see some snaps with Dru Samia hurt.