Minneapolis, September 12, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Falcons will take on the Minnesota Vikings in a highly anticipated prime time matchup on Sunday. Both teams have new starting quarterbacks and are looking for early-season success. The Vikings aim to build on their recent victory against the Bears, while the Falcons seek redemption after a narrow loss. Key players and injuries will play a significant role in determining the outcome of this exciting NFL matchup.
Minneapolis, MN – The Atlanta Falcons will square off against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday at 8:20 p.m. ET in a prime time matchup at U.S. Bank Stadium. This game marks the home opener for the Vikings, who are coming off a victory against the Chicago Bears.
The Falcons enter the contest with a record of 0-1 after suffering a close 23-20 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their season opener. In contrast, the Vikings sit at 1-0 following their 27-24 win over the Bears. This meeting also presents an intriguing quarterback battle, as both teams have new starters under center.
Michael Penix Jr. will lead the Falcons as he makes his fifth career start. The first-round draft pick from 2024 struggled to capitalize on opportunities in his first outing of the season. On the other side, Viking quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who was also drafted in the first round last year, is making his second career start. McCarthy received the NFC Offensive Player of the Week award after guiding the Vikings to a comeback victory on Monday Night Football.
The previous meeting between these two franchises occurred in December 2024, during which the Falcons fell to the Vikings by a significant margin of 42-21 in Minnesota. Both teams will be looking for improvement and momentum as they begin their seasons.
Injury Report
Injuries are a concern for both teams heading into the game. The Falcons’ rookie defenders, James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker, are listed as questionable. Walker was a key addition in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and the Falcons hope that rookie talent will bolster their pass rush.
Additionally, Falcons’ wide receivers Drake London and Darnell Mooney are dealing with shoulder injuries but have participated in practice sessions. However, Casey Washington did not practice for the second consecutive time, raising concerns about his availability for Sunday’s game.
For the Vikings, they will be missing left tackle Christian Darrisaw, linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, and cornerback Jeff Okudah, all due to injuries. Furthermore, safety Harrison Smith is questionable because of a personal health matter. Despite these setbacks, the Vikings aim to leverage their strengths against a Falcons team looking to bounce back.
Key Matchup and Players to Watch
The game highlights the individual performance of key players. Justin Jefferson of the Vikings is on the brink of a milestone, with the chance to become the youngest player in NFL history to reach 500 career receptions. Both Penix Jr. and McCarthy have previous history, having faced off in the 2024 College Football National Championship, making this QB matchup particularly captivating.
Running back Bijan Robinson impressed in the Falcons’ season opener with a notable performance, accounting for substantial scrimmage yards. His ability to create plays will be essential for Atlanta as they face a Vikings defense that has key players sidelined due to injuries.
Outlook
As both teams aim for early-season success, the matchup promises to be significant for their overall records and momentum. With a mix of injuries and pivotal player performances, fans are eager to see how this contest unfolds.
Summary of Key Information
- Game: Atlanta Falcons vs. Minnesota Vikings
- Date: Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET
- Location: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis
- Falcons’ Record: 0-1
- Vikings’ Record: 1-0
- Key Players: Michael Penix Jr. (Falcons), J.J. McCarthy (Vikings)
- Injuries: Both teams missing key players; Falcons’ draft picks James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker are questionable.
FAQ
What time is the Falcons vs. Vikings game?
The game starts at 8:20 p.m. ET on Sunday.
Where is the game taking place?
The game will be held at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
Who are the starting quarterbacks for both teams?
Michael Penix Jr. is starting for the Falcons, and J.J. McCarthy is starting for the Vikings.
Are there any significant injuries to report?
Yes, both teams are missing key players due to injuries, including the Falcons’ James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker, and the Vikings’ Christian Darrisaw and Jeff Okudah.
Key Features Comparison
| Feature | Atlanta Falcons | Minnesota Vikings |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 0-1 | 1-0 |
| Starting Quarterback | Michael Penix Jr. | J.J. McCarthy |
| Injuries | Pearce Jr., Walker (questionable); London, Mooney (shoulder issues) | Darrisaw, Van Ginkel, Okudah (out); Smith (questionable) |
| Key Player | Bijan Robinson | Justin Jefferson |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Falcons Prepare for Tough Matchup Against Vikings
Falcons Focus on Key Injuries Ahead of Vikings Matchup
Falcons Fall Short to Buccaneers in Season Opener
Falcons Update Depth Chart Ahead of Vikings Clash
Atlanta Falcons Seek Kicker After Koo’s Missed Field Goal
Falcons Face Tough Start to Season with Injury Woes
Falcons Fall Short Against Buccaneers in Close Matchup
Atlanta Falcons Narrowly Lose Season Opener to Buccaneers
Atlanta Gladiators Sign Louis Boudon for Upcoming Season
Atlanta Falcons Prepare for Season Opener Against Buccaneers
Additional Resources
- Star Tribune: Vikings vs. Falcons Preview
- Minnesota Vikings Official Site: Game Preview
- Sports Illustrated: Vikings vs. Falcons Score Predictions
- Google Search: Minneapolis Vikings vs Atlanta Falcons 2025
- Wikipedia: Minnesota Vikings
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
