Anthony Barr punched a ball out early and helped the Vikings deliver the knockout Sunday in a 20-10 victory against the Falcons. The second-year linebacker forced two fumbles (one recovered by teammate Antone Exum, Jr.; the other during a sack on a fourth-down play) and had an important pass breakup while covering Atlanta rookie running back Tevin Coleman on a wheel route in the fourth quarter.
Hustle — and a solid effort by Exum to slow down Coleman — enabled Barr to chase the runner from behind after a 46-yard gain on the Falcons fourth offensive play of the game.