Falcons Ride Strong Running Game to Beat Vikings 22-6
The Atlanta Falcons turned to their rushing attack in Week 2, and it paid off in a big way. Behind a stellar performance from Bijan Robinson, who carried the ball 22 times for 143 yards, the Falcons defeated the Minnesota Vikings 22-6 on Sunday night in Minneapolis.
The victory moves Atlanta to 1-1 on the season, bouncing back from its opening-week loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Minnesota also dropped to 1-1, struggling to find offensive rhythm behind rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy.
Falcons Control With Ground Game
Atlanta’s offensive strategy was clear from the start: establish the run. The Falcons racked up 218 rushing yards, consistently wearing down Minnesota’s defense. Robinson delivered the highlight performance, while Tyler Allgeier added 76 yards and scored the game’s only touchdown, a 5-yard run in the fourth quarter that sealed the outcome.
Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. played a supporting role, completing 13 of 21 passes for 135 yards. The Falcons weren’t explosive through the air, but they didn’t need to be. Their methodical rushing attack dictated the pace and controlled possession throughout the night.
Vikings Struggle to Move the Bal
The Vikings offense sputtered, managing just 198 total yards compared to Atlanta’s 326. Rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy endured a tough outing, going 11-for-21 with 158 yards and two interceptions.
Wide receiver Justin Jefferson provided the lone spark, hauling in three receptions for 81 yards, including a 50-yard catch late in the first half that set up a long field goal. But the Vikings running game never clicked, producing only 78 rushing yards.
Romo Shines in Falcons Debut
The Falcons relied heavily on newly signed kicker Parker Romo, who joined the team after a tryout earlier in the week. Romo stepped up with confidence, converting five field goals from 29, 33, 33, 38, and 54 yards. His consistent accuracy kept Atlanta ahead while the offense settled for drives that stalled in scoring range.
For the Vikings, rookie kicker Will Reichard delivered both of his attempts, connecting from 33 and 51 yards.
Key Injuries Impact Both Teams
Both teams suffered important injuries during the game. The Vikings announced that center Ryan Kelly and left tackle Justin Skule were placed in concussion protocol. Kelly, a four-time Pro Bowler, was ruled out at halftime, while Skule exited in the fourth quarter.
Atlanta also faced a setback when cornerback A.J. Terrell left the game in the second quarter with a hamstring injury. He did not return, raising concerns for the Falcons’ secondary going forward.
Game Flow Recap
- First Quarter: Romo gave Atlanta a 6-0 lead with two field goals.
- Second Quarter: Reichard got Minnesota on the board, but Romo added another kick before Reichard drilled a 51-yarder at the half to make it 9-6.
- Third Quarter: Romo’s third field goal extended Atlanta’s advantage to 12-6.
- Fourth Quarter: A 54-yarder by Romo and Allgeier’s late touchdown pushed the Falcons ahead for good, 22-6.
Atlanta’s defense kept the Vikings scoreless in the second half, tightening coverage and pressuring McCarthy into mistakes.
Looking Ahead
The Falcons will look to build momentum from their first win of the season as they prepare for a Week 3 matchup against another NFC opponent. With Robinson emerging as a game-changer and Allgeier proving reliable, Atlanta’s ground game could continue to be the team’s identity.
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Meanwhile, the Vikings will need to regroup offensively. McCarthy showed flashes but also growing pains, and injuries to key linemen could make things even tougher. Jefferson remains their offensive centerpiece, but Minnesota must find balance if it wants to contend in the NFC North.
Final Score: Atlanta Falcons 22, Minnesota Vikings 6
