When the Green Bay Packers were upset by the Chicago Bears on Thanksgiving day an opportunity was born for the Minnesota Vikings to swoop in and claim first place in the NFC North. With a resounding 20-10 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, they did just that.
Minnesota jumped out to an early touchdown lead after a 13 play drive that took over half the quarter highlighted by a mix of bruising Peterson run’s and quick Teddy Bridgewater passes.
Atlanta looked poised for a comeback on multiple occasions in the first half, each time stymied by a turnover. The first was forced by young Minnesota linebacker Anthony Barr who hustled down the field to punch the ball out during a 46 yard Falcon run. Grizzled veteran’s Terrence Newman and Captain Munnerlyn also had interceptions with the Falcons in scoring position, highlighting a great defensive game for the Vikings.
After the Falcons added a field goal, Minnesota answered midway through the third quarter with a 13 play drive that ended in a field goal of their own. Another long field goal drive in the fourth quarter extended Minnesota’s lead to two scores.
Then came the hammer. With just over 4 minutes left in the fourth quarter Adrian Peterson erupted for a 35 yard TD run down the near sideline. The run capped a nearly 160 yard game for the 9th year running back who passed OJ Simpson and others on the all time rushing list with his performance.
Atlanta would add a touchdown late but after the Vikings recovered the onside kick, Minnesota’s lone place atop the NFC North was sealed.
Minnesota will now turn their attention towards Seattle who they face at home next week. Kickoff for that NFC contest is scheduled for noon.
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