The Minnesota Vikings struggled to find any rhythm on Sunday night against the Atlanta Falcons. Injuries to the offensive line and a relentless Falcons pass rush left the team reeling, while turnovers and mistakes late in the game sealed their fate. Despite a few defensive highlights, it was a night the Vikings would like to forget.
Top two takeaways from Vikings’ 22-6 loss to Falcons:
1. Offensive Line Injuries Cripple the Offense
The Vikings were already missing Christian Darrisaw, and Sunday saw starting center Ryan Kelly and left tackle Justin Skule leave with concussions. Backup linemen Michael Jurgens and Walter Rouse stepped in, but the Falcons’ pressure was relentless, resulting in six sacks. J.J. McCarthy had limited success through the air, and the run game could not establish itself against Atlanta’s front, highlighting how much the team relies on a healthy offensive line.
2. Turnovers and Late Mistakes Cost the Vikings
Minnesota had several opportunities to stay close, but costly errors doomed them. J.J. McCarthy threw two interceptions, including a late fourth-quarter pick that sealed the game. Myles Price also muffed a punt in the final minute, allowing Atlanta to run out the clock. Even when the Vikings’ defense made stops, the offense couldn’t capitalize, making this a frustrating night from start to finish.
Up next for Minnesota: Sunday, September 21 vs. Cincinnati Bengals (1:00 p.m. ET on CBS)
