Indianapolis Colts vs. Minnesota Vikings
Just three weeks away from either the playoffs or offseason seclusion somewhere on an island, both the Minnesota Vikings and the Indianapolis Colts need to run the a table, and need a little help from others, to make the dance in the postseason.
Indianapolis didn’t do themselves any favors losing to the Houston Texans at home last Sunday, practically negating any hope for them if they were to tie Houston at the end of the year. Minnesota finally pulled off a road victory, their first since Week 3 of the season against the Carolina Panthers.
The Colts are getting a hint of the injury bug on the wrong end of the season, while Minnesota make welcome its best offensive weapon back to the lineup within the next week or two.
Both teams are on opposite swings to close the season, resiliency will surely come into play when Indianapolis travels to play in Minnesota’s new stomping grounds.
Keys to Victory
For Indy, it’s very simple; they won’t win this game if Andrew Luck cannot get protection. That’s partially a fault of his own, as Luck is known to hold the ball longer then he should.
The key to beating this Minnesota defense is remaining patient, take what their lackluster offense gives them, and attack with quick releases. Minnesota has three defensive ends boasting six or more sacks this year, while also having the second best defense versus the pass. Luck will need to make plays with his feet, be decisive on third down, and not be afraid to check it down.
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The Vikings must not let shoot themselves in the foot. Too many times this offensive line has been called for penalties, with how porous they have been this season it almost understandable why they need to get away with certain things but still.
Sam Bradford needs a clean pocket, continue where he left off last week and take shots down the field. This Colts secondary is on its last leg, guys like Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs will have multiple opportunities to exploit them down the field.
On defense, Minnesota has the pass rush to create havoc, and it must, as the secondary may now be without Trae Waynes as well along with Harrison Smith. They always say a battered secondary can always be disguised by a vaunted pass rush. Danielle Hunter, Brian Robison, Everson Griffen, and Anthony Barr need to bring their “A” game Sunday.
Odds
Point Spread: Minnesota -4
Moneyline: Indianapolis +170, Minnesota -200
Over/Under: 44
via Oddsshark.com
Prediction
Andrew Luck is nursing an injury and so is Donte Moncrief. Frank Gore is wearing down and the offensive line is starting to allow more and more hits on their franchise quarterback. Even without Harrison Smith, this Vikings rotational front seven may be one of the most potent in the league. With Adrian Peterson nearing return and coming off a road victory, Minnesota should be able to continue the momentum going into Green Bay.
Pick: Indianapolis Colts 16, Minnesota Vikings 24
