Vikings-Saints preview: Key matchups, stats that matter, and an X-factor
The Vikings have a good chance to get to 5-0, but they'll have to do it against a desperate team.
This Sunday, the Minnesota Vikings head to New Orleans to face their longtime rival, the New Orleans Saints. The Vikings are currently undefeated, but they face significant challenges against a Saints team that has struggled this season. The Vegas odds have the Vikings favored by just 2.5 points at the Superdome. New Orleans boasts offensive talent, particularly on offense with Tyler Shough, Chris Olave, Devaughn Vele, and Juwan Johnson, while their defense has been a concern.
Kevin O’Connell, the Saints' coordinator, praises Kellen Moore, the Vikings' coach, calling him a great coach with a talented team. The Vikings' offense is struggling, ranking 31st in yards per game and 28th in EPA per play, but their defense leads the league in EPA per play. The Saints' offense is 14th in EPA per play and will face a dominant Vikings defense.
Key matchups include Ryan Van Demark for Chase Young, and Taliese Fuaga for Dallas Turner and Andrew Van Ginkel. A potential X-factor is the Vikings' impressive special teams performance, led by Will Reichard and Myles Price. The Vikings will be without Christian Darrisaw and Donovan Jackson, while Ryan Van Demark and Joe Huber will start.
The Saints are without linebacker Kaden Elliss and running back Alvin Kamara. Vikings players with Minnesota connections include Ryan Wright, Daniel Carlson, and Ty Chandler.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
