The Atlanta Falcons are back in the spotlight as they will battle the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday Night Football in a matchup that will mark the toughest test of Michael Penix Jr's young career. But with countless eyes on the Dirty Birds, it'll take more than Penix outdueling J.J. McCarthy to avoid an 0-2 start.
While all eyes will justifiably fall on the two young quarterbacks and former college rivals, Atlanta’s fortunes will ultimately hinge on the defense—and whether one key defender can bounce back from a disappointing season opener. Kaden Ellis is the heart of this Falcons' defense, and the 30-year-old has quickly grown into one of the league's most underrated pass-rushers.