Vikings vs. Eagles: Who wins NFC Championship rematch?
The Minnesota Vikings face the Philadelphia Eagles in a rematch of the 2017 NFC Championship Game as both teams try to find their footing.
The Minnesota Vikings (1-2-1)were riding high in January after a thrilling win over the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Divisional Round of the playoffs. They were about to face the Philadelphia Eagles (2-2) with Nick Foles under center. Everything was perfect for a run to the Super Bowl.
Well, that’s not exactly what happened as Foles was phenomenal in shredding a terrific Minnesota defense to lead the Eagles to a 38-7 blowout victory. The Eagles, of course, would go on to win their first Super Bowl in franchise history. T
he Vikings, meanwhile, went all-in this offseason, replacing Case Keenum at quarterback with high-priced free agent, Kirk Cousins. Cousins has played well thus far, unfortunately, it’s Minnesota’s defense that’s been the issue.
The Eagles started the year with Foles at quarterback while Carson Wentz worked his way back from last season’s ACL injury. Went returned to the lineup two weeks ago and is still rounding into form. Philadelphia received even more good news last week when wide receiver Alshon Jeffery made his season debut.
Jeffery was terrific, catching eight passes for 105 yards and a score. With Jeffery, tight end Zach Ertz, slot receiver Nelson Agholor and rookie tight end Dallas Goedert, Wentz has a nice supply of weapons. Running back Jay Ajayi has been solid, but the Eagles need more from him.
While Minnesota’s defense has struggled, Philly’s defense is solid, ranking No. 11 in total defense. Despite their struggles in the secondary, the Eagles still have a terrific pass rush to help cover some deficiencies on the back end. On the flip side, the Vikings have struggled to keep Cousins clean. If Cousins finds the time, he will pick apart the Philadelphia secondary with Adam Thielen, Stefon Diggs and Kyle Rudolph.
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The Vikings are also waiting on more from their running game. Second-year back Dalvin Cook is also returning from an ACL injury and hasn’t quite looked like himself thus far. Cook has just 98 yards this season at only 2.7 yards per attempt.
TV and Live Stream Info
Date: Sunday, October 7, 2018
Start Time: 4:25 p.m. ET
Location: Philadelphia, Pa.
Stadium: Lincoln Financial Field
TV Info: FOX
Live Stream: FuboTV, NFL Sunday Ticket
Betting Odds
Point Spread: Philadelphia -3
Moneyline: Minnesota +127, Philadelphia -149
Over/Under: 46.5
All odds courtesy of Odds Shark.
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Prediction
The Vikings need this win badly. If they fall to 1-3-1 this early, recovering could be tough, although the NFC North isn’t as strong this year. This game will be another shootout. Cousins will find plenty of plays to be made against Philly’s secondary and Wentz will have an equally big day. Minnesota’s running game will once again struggle and that will prove to be the difference in the game. Minnesota suffers another loss, while Philly keeps pace in the NFC East.
Final Score: Philadelphia 31, Minnesota 27