Arizona Cardinals vs. Minnesota Vikings: 3 Key matchups to watch
By Joe Kipp
The Arizona Cardinals (1-4) will attempt to play spoiler against the Minnesota Vikings (2-2-1) this Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium. Here are three key matchups to watch.
The Minnesota Vikings have had a few up-and-down weeks to start the season, but enter Sunday in what looks to be an easy matchup on paper against the Arizona Cardinals.
Minnesota is still be searching for an identity after a confusing 27-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills, but a narrow 23-21 victory over the reigning, defending Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles. At 2-2-1, every game is crucial from here on out. The NFC North is arguably the toughest division in football, and the Vikings will need every win they can muster to claim the division.
As for the Cardinals, a lack of competency at the quarterback position has been their biggest downfall. Over the first few games, Sam Bradford — who was wearing purple and gold the last time these two teams faced — was one the worst quarterbacks in the league until he was rightfully benched for rookie Josh Rosen.
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The biggest weakness for the Vikings has been their ability to get anything going on the ground. They currently stand at 31st in rushing yards per game (65.8), although much of that may be attributed to Dalvin Cook‘s continued absence (hamstring). For Arizona, the offensive line has been their biggest weakness, which obviously doesn’t bode well for a rookie quarterback.
Entering Sunday, the Vikings are 10.5-point favorites over the Cardinals, with the over/under being set at 43 points, according to OddsShark. If Arizona were to force the upset, it would be the first win by the Cardinals at Minnesota since Nov. 6, 1977.
Here are three key matchups to watch as the game unfolds: