What to know when the Vikings host the Green Bay Packers on Sunday afternoon:
Vikings vs. Packers
When: 3:25 p.m. Sunday
Where: U.S. Bank Stadium
TV: FOX
Radio: KFAN
Line: Vikings -1.5
Over/Under: 48.5
Keys for the Vikings
— If the Vikings want to gain the upper hand in the rivalry matchup, it starts with limiting the Packers on the ground. That could be easier said than done considering star running back Josh Jacobs continues to prove he’s among the best in the NFL at his position. The Vikings have been extremely effective stopping the run this season, and will need that to continue that on Sunday against the Packers.
— There’s an opportunity for star receiver Justin Jefferson to take over for the Vikings. Not only are the Packers without star cornerback Jaire Alexander, they’re also missing standout rookie safety Evan Williams. That’s something the Vikings will certainly try to exploit. It also helps that Jefferson is fresh off a 10-catch, 144-yard performance against Seattle, and likely hungry for more.
Keys for the Packers
— If the Vikings load up the box in an effort to take away Jacobs, the Packers have to make them pay with star quarterback Jordan Love. It was a much different feel the last time the Vikings and the Packers played a few months ago. At the time, Love was returning from a knee injury and didn’t exactly look like himself. Now that he’s back in a groove, Love might have to carry the Packers this time around.
— A potential equalizer for the Packers will be turnovers. If they can force veteran quarterback Sam Darnold into some errant passes, that could help put them in control. The only issue with that is Darnold has done a very good job taking care of the ball over the past couple of months. That’s why the Packers need to put pressure on him to see if they can make him uncomfortable.
Related Articles
Vikings vs. Packers: Lions waiting, but this one’s just as big
The Loop NFL Picks: Week 17
Aaron Jones has meant more to the Vikings than just his 1,000-plus yards
Vikings linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. is trending in right direction
Lions sign Teddy Bridgewater as veteran playoff insurance
Leave a Reply