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Vikings vs Falcons Prediction and Picks
It’s déjà vu for football fans. J.J. McCarthy and Michael Penix Jr. last met on the biggest stage in college football — the 2024 CFP National Championship, when McCarthy’s Michigan Wolverines topped Penix’s Washington Huskies. Now, the two rookie quarterbacks square off in the NFL as the Minnesota Vikings host the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday Night Football.
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The Vikings (1-0) ride into Week 2 with momentum after a thrilling 27-24 comeback win against the Bears. The Falcons (0-1) nearly pulled off a victory against the Buccaneers but fell 23-20 despite a strong debut from Penix.
McCarthy’s Home Debut
McCarthy, selected 10th overall in the draft, gets his first start in front of the U.S. Bank Stadium crowd. He went 19-of-32 for 242 yards, one TD, and one INT in his debut, showing poise in crunch time by leading three fourth-quarter scoring drives.
The rookie QB is eager to feel the energy of the “Skol” chant as he takes on an Atlanta defense that ranked 21st in passing yards allowed last season. With Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison as his main targets, McCarthy will have the weapons to test the Falcons secondary.
Penix Ready to Shine
Penix, the eighth overall pick, showed flashes of brilliance in his debut, completing 27-of-42 passes for 298 yards, one passing TD, and one rushing score. His dual-threat ability kept the Buccaneers off balance, and he nearly led a game-winning drive late in the fourth quarter.
The Falcons are optimistic about having star receiver Drake London back from a shoulder injury after he caught eight passes for 55 yards before exiting in Week 1. If London suits up, Penix will have a full arsenal to challenge Minnesota’s defense.
Team Stats Comparison
| Stat | Vikings | Falcons |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 1-0 | 0-1 |
| Points Per Game | 27.0 | 20.0 |
| Passing Yards/Game | 242.0 | 298.0 |
| Rushing Yards/Game | 104.0 | 92.0 |
| Opp. Points Allowed | 24.0 | 23.0 |
Betting Odds
According to the latest NFL odds:
| Spread | Moneyline | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Vikings -3 | Vikings -165 | 45.5 |
| Falcons +3 | Falcons +140 | 45.5 |
Prediction and Pick
Both rookie quarterbacks showed they belong in Week 1, and this matchup feels like a coin flip. The difference could be Minnesota’s home-field advantage and McCarthy’s ability to rally late, as he proved against Chicago.
- Pick: Vikings -3
- Lean: Over 45.5
For more insights and betting previews, check out the full NFL picks page.
