Two quarterbacks will make their first starts of the 2023 campaign this week in Atlanta.
For the Minnesota Vikings, rookie Jaren Hall steps in to replace the injured Kirk Cousins who tore his Achilles tendon last week, effectively ending the veteran's season. It's a disappointing blow for the quarterback who was among the league leaders.
What Hall lacks in experience, he may make up for with mobility. In each of his final two college seasons at BYU, Hall posted more than three hundred yards rushing. At 4-4, the Vikings will need steady play from the rookie if they're hoping to make a playoff push.
The Atlanta Falcons, also at 4-4, are looking to jumpstart their offense with Taylor Heinicke, who replaces a struggling Desmond Ridder. Ridder cleared concussion protocol earlier this week and will serve as the backup Sunday.
Heinicke does have starting experience in the NFL, including 24 games over the last two seasons in Washington where he went 12-11-1.
Noting he'd be asked about it multiple times this week, Atlanta head coach Arthur Smith gave a somewhat cryptic answer to the reason for the change in speaking on the Pat McAfee Show Friday.
"Things come up, a lot of things," the coach said. "We've gotta keep things as private as we can for multiple reasons, but we're excited about Taylor playing. He always finds a way...we're fired up."
How to watch Vikings vs Falcons
The game is scheduled for Sunday, November 5, at 1:00 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. FOX will broadcast the action with Chris Myers and Mark Schlereth on the call. Fans wishing to stream this game can do so via NFL+, Fubo, Paramount+ or through YouTube TV's NFL Sunday Ticket package.
Key injuries
Atlanta: Wide receiver Drake London and defensive back DeMarcco Hellams were the only two Falcons who didn't participant in Thursday's practice. Cornerback Mike Hughes was limited by a shoulder injury in Thursday's session. Fullback Keith Smith was also limited as he recovers from a concussion.
Minnesota: For the Vikings, defensive end Dean Lowry sat out all week with a groin injury and has been ruled out for the game. Linebacker Brian Asamoah (ankle), wide receiver Jalen Naiilor (hamstring) and Chris Reed (foot) are all listed as questionable.
Betting odds for Vikings vs Falcons
The Falcons are favored by four points on DraftKings Sportsbook Friday, indicating betting markets are skeptical about the Vikings' chances with a rookie quarterback. The over/under is set at 37.5 points.
Bettors seem to agree with the assessment, placing 65 percent of the wagers on Atlanta according to DraftKings.
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