Falcons, Vikings in similar spots, needing defense to lead

Minnesota Vikings coach Mike Zimmer talks with reporters following the team's 27-23 loss to the Buffalo Bills in an NFL preseason football game in Orchard Park, N.Y., Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019. (AP Photo/David Dermer)

FILE - In this Dec. 18, 2017, file photo, Atlanta Falcons strong safety Keanu Neal (22) pressures Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) during the second half of an NFL football game in Tampa, Fla. The Falcons won 24-21. Neal is one of several key defensive players back from injury for the Falcons after a disappointing season in 2018. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack, File)

Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn watches play against the Washington Redskins during the first half an NFL preseason football game, Thursday, Aug. 22, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

FILE - In this Sept. 9, 2018, file photo, Minnesota Vikings defensive back Xavier Rhodes, right, intercepts a pass intended for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Dante Pettis during the second half of an NFL football game in Minneapolis. Rhodes, whose play was affected by injury last year, is one of several players being counted on to help get the team back to the playoffs. (AP Photo/Jim Mone, File)