Adrian Peterson has been making headlines this week for the obvious reason that he is... well, Adrian Peterson. The iconic running back's status for this week's matchup with the Falcons is more than a little uncertain, with a distinct possibility that he'll miss the game. That would be a big blow to a Vikings team that's struggled mightily this season.
But for the Falcons, the real story has been Michael Turner. Atlanta's workhorse running back is perhaps having his finest season since 2008, and has topped 100 yards thrice in his past five outings (not to discount his 96-yard effort against New Orleans). He also has four rushing touchdowns in that span.
Not only is Turner's statistical performance impressive, but his presence on the field also gives me flashbacks of 2008. He looks like he's showing more power and burst out there on the field. He's lowering the boom and he's breaking off those 20+ yard runs. Most of all, he scores.
That said, don't let this week's matchup scare you away. Minnesota does have a top-10 rush defense (they rank ninth in yards allowed per game). But if Matt Ryan & Co. can put the game out reach early by taking advantage of a Vikings' secondary currently allowing the fifth most yards per game in the league, there won't be much left but for Turner do wear down that Minnesota front for the rest of the game.
So without further ado, your week 12 numberFire.com projections:
For more, check out SB Nation's Falcons blog The Falcoholic and Titans blog Music City Miracles