Staff report
MINNEAPOLIS — The Atlanta Falcons won a Sunday night defensive struggle against the Minnesota Vikings, with Atlanta taking a 22-6 road win that included a second-half shutout.
Both teams are 1-1.
Atlanta’s defense features a host of rookies, including former Salisbury High and University of Georgia star Jalon Walker, a first-round draft pick,
Walker recorded his first NFL sack in the game. It was an important play, as he nailed JJ McCarthy for a 7-yard loss with the Vikings in the red zone.
The Falcons also got a sack from rookie James Pearce Jr. and interceptions from rookies Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman Jr.
Atlanta signed a new kicker in an emergency, and Parker Romo responded with five field goals. He kicked three to give Atlanta a 9-6 halftime lead.
Javon Hargrave (North Rowan, SC State) didn’t have any sacks — he had two in the opener — but he played well again for the Vikings and was in on five tackles for the second straight week.
Tampa Bay is next for Atlanta. Minnesota plays Cincinnati next in what is expected to be a matchup of backup QBs. McCarthy and Joe Burrow are injured. McCarthy sustained a high ankle sprain in the game against Atlanta.
