The Minnesota Vikings can regain first place in the NFC North with a win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, which would give them their sixth victory in the last seven games. Here are three reasons why they're guaranteed to do just that:
3) Trending in opposite directions
On top of Minnesota's recent success, Atlanta has been equally as bad, losing three in a row and four of their last five after starting the season 5-0. Those kind of streaks don't just suddenly change against other teams moving in the opposite direction, meaning you can expect the Vikings to play well and the Falcons to play poorly.
2) Matt Ryan's miscues vs. Minnesota's defense
The Vikings have quietly put together a top-five defense this year, and they should be able to control the game in this one with turnovers. Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan has thrown six interceptions over the last four games, and Minnesota should be able to take advantage of that, setting their offense up in great scoring position.
1) Adrian Peterson's greatness
Minnesota is built to run the ball down opponents' throats, and Adrian Peterson is the main reason why. Teddy Bridgewater understands his role as a game manager and has done a fantastic job protecting the ball in order to set Peterson up for success. Atlanta's front seven is extremely vulnerable and Peterson's going to exploit that BIG TIME.