Minnesota Vikings vs. Seattle Seahawks: Preview, Keys to Victory and Prediction

Sep 27, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen (97) against the San Diego Chargers at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Chargers 31-14. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Keys to Victory

Get pressure on and contain Russell Wilson

Russell Wilson is playing quite well lately there’s no denying that. However, he hasn’t played against a front seven like Minnesota’s in a while, and it could be what takes him off his game.

The key, though, as I’ve already mentioned, is to keep Wilson contained in the pocket and get pressure on him that way. Similarly to Bridgewater, Wilson is rather conservative in that he holds the ball for a good amount of time. If he can’t escape the pocket, the Vikings will be able to take advantage of this and get to Wilson.

It’ll be a big game for Everson Griffen going up against Russell Okung. If Griffen can stay disciplined when rushing Wilson, he should be able to make a sizable impact in this game.

Stop the run

I’m benching Thomas Rawls in my fantasy league this week, so I’m counting on Minnesota to make this happen. The Vikings like to give up the occasional big run to opposing running backs, and Rawls is the type of runner that will bust one of those often.

Keeping Rawls contained will only put more pressure on Wilson to move the ball against the 4th-best secondary in the NFL, and that plays right into Minnesota’s hands.

Make field goals

This may seem like an odd key to victory, but in a game that very well may turn into a field goal fest, it’s just as important as anything. Additionally, Minnesota’s red zone offense hasn’t exactly been spectacular this season, so expect to see a lot of Blair Walsh field goal attempts on Sunday in a game which the Vikings’ offense might have a tough time putting together a complete drive against Seattle’s talented defense.

There’s a pretty good chance this is a low-scoring game decided by a small margin. In a game like that, it will be important for Walsh to take advantage of every opportunity to put points up for the Vikings.

Next: Vikings vs. Seahawks: Prediction