Minnesota Vikings Official 2014 Regular Season Schedule Released

Dec 1, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) rushes for 18 yards against the Chicago Bears in the third quarter at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. This run marked his 10,000 yards in career rushing. Vikings win 23-20 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

Are you ready for some football?

Well, we’re still over four months away, but NFL fans can rejoice in tonight’s unveiling of the 2014 schedule. For the Minnesota Vikings, they’ll kick off the season on the road versus the Rams.

One thing about Minnesota’s schedule that jumps right away is the tough start. After visiting the Rams, they have New England at home in Week 2 and then travel to New Orleans in Week 3. For a young rebuilding team like the Vikings, a tough early schedule can be especially daunting, as an 0-3 start could cripple some teams.

Last season the Vikings played their NFC North opponents especially tough, and this season, their schedule is back-loaded with divisional matchups. Four of their final seven are against the Bears, Packers or Lions.

The Vikings will be in prime time only once in 2014, Week 5 at the Packers. The Vikings do have the benefit of having a potential easy stretch in the middle of the season. Starting in Week 6, they play Detroit, Buffalo, Tampa Bay and Washington in a row, all four teams that finished under .500 last season, then follow that stretch up with a bye in Week 10. 

For the full Minnesota Vikings schedule, click here.