Vikings vs. Packers: Preview, score prediction for Week 16
Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers
You have to go back to 2009 when Brett Favre was the quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings to find the last time the Purple Gang swept the Green Bay Packers. But Mike Zimmer’s team is in position to do just that on Saturday night at Lambeau Field.
Obviously it’s always a big game when the rival Vikings and Packers go toe-to-toe. However, the hope of having Aaron Rodgers for this game has been quelled as the Green Bay star is on IR once again, ending his season, after making a return in a loss for Week 15.
So with the stage set, what will this matchup look like on Saturday?
Keys to Victory
While quarterback Case Keenum has enjoyed a solid year since taking over as the team’s starter, it is a balanced attack that has been the catalyst of the team’s offensive revival. The Vikings are ranked ninth in the NFL in both rushing and passing offense. A year ago, Zimmer’s club owned the worst running attack in the league.
Early on it was rookie Dalvin Cook. Now running backs Latavius Murray and Jerick McKinnon as well as an improved offensive line has made life easier for Keenum and targets such as wideouts Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs and tight end Kyle Rudolph. Green Bay’s 26th-ranked defense has its work cut out for itself.
Betting Odds
Point Spread: Vikings (-9)
Moneyline: Vikings +105, Packers -125
Over/Under: 40
Prediction
For the first time since 2008, the NFL playoffs won’t include Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers. His sustained absence this season isn’t the sole reason the franchise won’t be around to compete for a 14th NFL championship. There needs to be some major changes ahead, in particular when it comes to Dom Capers’ defensive unit.
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The Minnesota Vikings have no such issues and have gotten better as the season has unfolded. The club has grown with confidence and has all the makings of a team ready to reach the Super Bowl for the first time in more than four decades. The undermanned Pack will make things interesting but only for a short time.
Final Score: Minnesota Vikings: 28, Green Bay Packers: 20