Minnesota Vikings vs Detroit Lions Preview

The first divisional game for the Minnesota Vikings takes them to Detroit for a game against the 0-4 Lions. The Lions have already lost to division foe the Green Bay Packers with their other three games sharing the same fate.

The Minnesota Vikings are coming off a bad loss to the Cleveland Browns and have lost three of their first four games. Jared Goff is off to a pretty good start to the season but this tough Vikings defense will be a challenge for the young quarterback.

There are a few keys to this game for the Minnesota Vikings. The first is to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. The Vikings offensive line could not hold off the strong Browns defensive line but this week against the Lions shouldn’t be as much of an issue.

Being able to protect Kirk Cousins while also blocking well and creating lanes for however is in the backfield, whether it is Dalvin Cook or Alexander Mattison. If the running game can get established that gives Kirk more time for play action which could create come big plays for Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson and maybe even K.J. Osborn.

On the defensive side the Vikings need to continue their pass rushing pressure and attack the offensive line of the Lions in order to cause trouble for Jared Goff. Stopping the run should be the priority with the Lions having their own form of a duo in the form of D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams.

Another key is stopping the connection between T.J. Hockenson and Jared Goff. Hockenson leads the team in receiving yards and could have a big game if the Minnesota linebackers and safeties aren’t aware of him at all times.

This game could have some other exciting news as Anthony Barr could make his return after 13 months rehabbing from his knee injury last year. Barr was a full participant in Wednesday’s practice and could bring back the strong leader this defense may need.