The Falcons know if they are going to beat the Vikings and stop their back sliding, they must contend with running back Adrian Peterson, who leads the NFL in rushing with 1,006 yards.
The Falcons are giving up just 88.7 yards per game to lead the league is run defense, which must embody coach Dan Quinn’s fast and physical brand of football in order to slow down Peterson.
“I guess you can honestly say that we’re about to face the best back in the NFL,” defensive lineman Tyson Jackson said. “They have a really good offensive line and a talented quarterback. We’re going to have our hands full. We know what’s being asked of us and we’re ready to accept the challenge.”
The Falcons aren’t in awe of Peterson, who was suspended last season for his role in a child abuse case.
“He’s the best back that I’ve ever played against,” defensive tackle Paul Soliai said. “He runs with an attitude. Just for a back to line up that far back and come down hill, he’s a good back. We just have got to gang tackle.”
The Falcons have slowed Philadelphia’s DeMarco Murray (eight carries for 9 yards), Houston’s Arian Foster (8 for 10), Washington’s Alfred Morris (8 for 15), New Orleans’ Mark Ingram (20 for 46) and Tampa Bay’s Doug Martin (23 for 71) this season.
Dallas (127), Tampa Bay (117) and San Francisco (133) are the only teams to crack the 100-yard mark against the Falcons .
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