Falcons have left-tackle decision to make

FLOWERY BRANCH -- The Falcons have a potential dilemma at the left-tackle position entering their game against Minnesota, which features the league's sack leader in defensive end Jared Allen.

Left tackle Sam Baker, the original starter who's been out with a back injury, returned to practice last week and could be ready for action against the Vikings. However, Will Svitek, Baker's backup, has been stout in four starts.

"We are not going to make that determination until we get Sam back out there on the field," Falcons coach Mike Smith said on Monday.

Svitek has not given up a sack while going against Detroit's Kyle Vanden Bosch, Indianapolis Dwight Freeney, New Orleans' Will Allen and Tennessee's Jason Jones.

Baker, a former first-round pick, struggled early in the season while playing with his back issue.

"Sam practiced on a limited basis and we’ll continue to see how he progresses," Smith said. "We think because he’s been able to increase his workload each and every day, that he will be able to get back to full speed."

Baker has given up just three sacks, while right tackle Tyson Clabo has permitted five, according to Stats Pass LLC.

Right guard Garrett Reynolds has allowed three sacks, center-guard Joe Hawley 2.5 sacks and left guard Justin Blalock 1.5 sacks. Center Todd McClure has not allowed a sack. There are five unattributed sacks.

The Vikings are tied for the league lead with 31 sacks with Washington and the New York Giants.

Weems was starter

With the Falcons opening in their no-huddle attack and using three wide receivers, Eric Weems made his first start of the season and fifth of his career.

Weems was targeted three times and caught three passes for 20 yards against the Titans. He also caught three passes for 25 yards against the Saints.

"I thought Eric Weems did some good things," Smith said. "He had a tough draw. He drew Cortland Finnegan, who's a Pro Bowl player at the nickel spot. I thought he did a nice job of keeping him off of our back. Finnegan is one of the most aggressive and physical defensive backs in the league."

Falcons wide receiver Kerry Meier saw his most extensive action of the season from scrimmage, but was not targeted on any pass plays.

Abraham adds sack

Defensive end John Abraham had the Falcons' only sack against Tennessee. The defense also registered three quarterback hits on Matt Hasselbeck and Jake Locker.

The Falcons have 16 sacks on the season, which was tied for 28th in the league with Buffalo (before the Monday night game).