Atlanta Falcons: 3 Bold predictions in Week 6 vs. Vikings
3. With no Dalvin Cook, Falcons must focus on the passing game
On the side of the Vikings, they have a solid running back group that has been led by Dalvin Cook in the first five games of the regular season. In Week 5, however, Cook suffered a groin injury that sidelined him for basically the entire second half and he’s now out in Week 6. Therefore, Atlanta might have to focus on the passing game led by Kirk Cousins and company in Minnesota.
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After not getting into much of a rhythm in the first few weeks of the year, the Vikings offense has picked up the pace and continues to trend in the right direction going into Week 6. If Cook isn’t on the field on Sunday, Minnesota will have the chance to continue to air the ball out and try and get more creative on offense to balance the solid running game that has been consistent all season long.
So far this season, Minnesota has thrown the ball just 139 times this year, which ranks fifth-least in the NFL. The Vikings, however, have averaged to throw for 8.1 yards per pass attempt, which ranks in the top 10 in the league. They have been one of the top-performing running offenses in the league once again.
On the other side of the line of scrimmage, the Falcons have allowed opposing offenses to throw for a total of 1,482 yards this year, which is the second-most in the NFL. Opposing teams have also thrown for 15 touchdowns against Atlanta’s defense, which is tied with New Orleans for the most by a defense.
Atlanta’s defense might have to adjust on the fly leading into the game this weekend in Minneapolis, but if Cook isn’t on the other side, the Falcons will have to hold the passing game in check to try and grab a win.