Every weekday, we walk you through what's going on with the Vikings.

WHAT YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED

— The Vikings are 7-3 with a defense that ranks ninth in the NFL overall, fifth in third-down conversions and third in scoring. But when it comes to takeaways, only four teams have fewer than their modest total of 11.

— Harrison Smith was held out of practice on Wednesday. But the standout safety downplayed concerns about the severity of his knee injury.

— This week's five Vikings stats that stand out include a look at how Mike Wallace has been the NFL's least efficient wideout the past four weeks.

— Teddy Bridgewater is confident he will connect with Wallace soon.

BEHIND ENEMY LINES

— Falcons starting running back Devonta Freeman remains in the league's concussion protocol program and did not practice on Wednesday.

— Because Freeman is reeling, the Falcons may utilize rookie backs Tevin Coleman and Terron Ward more this weekend against the Vikings.

— Star wide receiver Julio Jones said the Falcons, who have lost four out of their last five games, can lean on him to get through this rough patch.

TODAY'S VIKINGS SCHEDULE

The Vikings will practice in the morning before players are dismissed to go feast on some turkey. There is no media access, which I'm thankful for.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

Smith might be as close to irreplaceable as any Vikings defender. He is one of the NFL's premier safeties and he plays a valuable role in coach Mike Zimmer's blitz packages. No NFL safety has created more pressure this season as a blitzer than Smith, who has recorded one sack, a league-high five hits and 10 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus.