What to know when the Vikings host the Detroit Lions on Sunday afternoon:
Lions at Vikings
When: 12 p.m. Sunday
Where: U.S. Bank Stadium
TV: FOX
Radio: KFAN
Line: Lions – 3.0
Over/Under: 47.5
Keys for the Vikings
— The best way for the Vikings to defend this weekend will be by pressuring Lions quarterback Jared Goff. It will be on defensive coordinator Brian Flores to draw up exotic blitz packages that make Goff uncomfortable in the pocket. In the past, Goff has shown that he can be affected by pressure in his face.
— On the flip side, the Vikings should be able to attack the Lions downfield when they’re on offense. The last time the teams met, star receiver Justin Jefferson dominated with more more than 200 yards receiving. If he can make a similar impact this time, the Vikings will have a pretty good chance at an upset victory.
Keys for the Lions
— If the Vikings are going to try to pressure Goff, the Lions need to counter by running the ball with regularity. The running back combo of veteran David Montgomery and rookie Jahmyr Gibbs has been a godsend for the Lions this season. It would behoove them to get Montgomery and Gibbs rolling in this one.
— There should be ample opportunity for Lions pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson to make his presence felt. If he can sack Vikings quarterback Nick Mullens a couple of times, or even simply generate some hurries, the Vikings might have a difficult time operating offensively. The fact that Mullens has a tendency to turn the ball over should not be overlooked.
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