A very impressive rookie debut, a new-found energy and a ridiculous rushing attack all contributed to the Minnesota Vikings victory.
The win improves the Vikings to 2-2 on the year, with the loss dropping the Atlanta Falcons record to 2-2.
5. Teddy Bridgewater was very impressive in his first career NFL start before leaving the game with injury
Bridgewater led the Vikings on numerous scoring drives as he threw for over 300 yards. He became the first rookie in franchise history to throw over 300 yards in their first start. Bridgewater led the Vikings to scores on six of his nine drives, and it could have been seven had kicker Blair Walsh not missed a long field goal.
4. The Falcons defense is still a work in progress...at best
The Vikings were gashing the Falcons defense all game long, as they compiled 558 total yards. Atlanta's defensive line was overpowered by the Minnesota offensive line, and the Falcons allowed 241 rushing yards at a 5.5 yards per carry clip.
3. Atlanta's offensive line can't stay healthy.
Already having lost their starting LT Sam Baker for the season, the Falcons offensive line was thin. This game saw three more of their offensive lineman go down - center Joe Hawley, right rackle Lamar Holmes and left guard Justin Blalock all left the game, forcing starting TE Levine Toilolo to play right guard for the remainder of the game.
2. Matt Ryan's road woes continue
With this loss, Matt Ryan's career road record is 24-26, compared to 38-10 at home. It makes sense for teams to struggle on the road when they play in a dome, but the difference in the Falcons' records at home and away stands out.
1. The Vikings have a new-found confidence
Depending on the severity of Teddy Bridgewater's injury, this Vikings team is going to be carrying a new confidence going forward with him under center. The initial reports are that Bridgewater's ankle is just fine, and that he's going to be dealing with a very mild sprain - if healthy, he has to be Minnesota's starter from here on out.
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