Week 4 matchup

Many of the Vikings' offensive problems have been caused by defensive pressure on Daunte Culpepper, and Rosenthal will have his hands full trying to contain Kerney. Atlanta's linemen use their quickness to shoot gaps in the offensive line and make plays in the backfield. Extremely quick for his size, Kerney (6-5,273) has excellent technique, is a sure tackler and plays with great intensity. He has a boxful of pass-rush moves and can get inside leverage after drawing his opponent outside with his speed.

Rosenthal struggles against players such as Kerney. He tends to overextend himself to the outside and is susceptible to inside moves. He's at his best run blocking, using his size (6-7,315) and strength to overpower defenders. Look for the Vikings to try to establish the run first, running right at the smaller Kerney to try to wear him down. The Falcons will bring pressure up the middle against Minnesota's shaky interior line, forcing the back to bounce outside into Kerney's pressure. Even if the Vikings run left, they'll have trouble preventing Kerney from chasing down plays from the back side. Advantage: Kerney.

More matchups: warroom.sportingnews.com

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