5 bold Minnesota Vikings predictions for Week 9 vs. the Atlanta Falcons
By Chris Schad
3. The Vikings will rush for over 100 yards
When Dalvin Cook was in the backfield, 100 rushing yards was nothing for the Vikings offense. But with his departure this past offseason, Minnesota's running game has struggled this year, as they've gained over 100 rushing yards in just two of their eight games this season.
While Alexander Mattison and Cam Akers were supposed to be relied upon to provide the Vikings' rushing attack with more efficiency, that hasn’t panned out. But this weekend, there’s a chance Minnesota could get what they want against the Falcons defense.
Atlanta comes into Sunday’s game allowing just 3.8 yards per carry to their opponents this season, but suffered a big loss when defensive lineman Grady Jarrett tore his ACL in last week’s loss to the Tennessee Titans.
While Jarrett will leave a hole in the Falcons' pass rush, it also leaves a large gap in the middle of their defense, which the Vikings should be able to attack no matter who leads their offensive backfield on Sunday.