Three Intriguing Questions Ahead Of Vikings Vs. Texans
The Minnesota Vikings are 2-0 for the first time since the 2016 season behind quarterback Sam Darnold and a strong defense.
Can the Vikes continue to play winning football in Week Three? Here are three intriguing questions ahead of Vikings vs. Texans this weekend.
3) Will The Vikings Defense Stop Stroud?
This will be the first time the Vikings go up against second-year quarterback C.J. Stroud. The former Ohio State Buckeye won Rookie of the Year, Offensive Rookie of the Year, and was named to the Pro Bowl last season.
Stroud has turned around the Texans organization, and the fanbase has big hopes for this season. So far, so good for Houston, who has started the season 2-0 with victories over the Indianapolis Colts and Chicago Bears.
On the other side, Minnesota’s defense has been excellent. While the Brian Flores-led group allowed 399 yards last week against the 49ers, holding San Francisco to 17 points is a significant accomplishment for a defense that has struggled in years past.
If Minnesota can limit Stroud and the Texans' offense on Sunday, this unit should be considered one of the best in the NFL.
2) Can Sam Darnold Continue To Play At An Elite Level?
Sam Darnold has been a pleasant surprise for Vikings fans. The former first-round draft pick is playing the best football of his career under head coach Kevin O’Connell. Darnold has completed 72% of his passes for 476 yards, four touchdowns, and two interceptions this season.
One play in particular was critical to Minnesota's win last weekend. The Vikings were facing third down in the fourth quarter without wide receivers Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and tight end T.J. Hockenson. Darnold threw a perfect ball to Jalen Nailor to extend the drive.
Darnold is playing like a top quarterback in the NFL. Another strong outing from the quarterback, and the Vikings could have their 10th 3-0 start in franchise history.
1) Will Justin Jefferson Play?
There’s no debate that Justin Jefferson is the most important player on the Vikings roster. The three-time Pro Bowler has recorded eight catches for 192 yards and two touchdowns in the season's first two games. One of those scores came off a 97-yard grab in the second quarter of the 49ers game.
Jefferson left the game in the second half with a leg injury, but the team immediately let everyone know the injury wasn’t severe. Jefferson was at the Vikings walkthrough on Wednesday, and ESPN’s Adam Schefter believes he is “on track” to play in week three.
Final Thoughts For Vikings Vs. Texans
The Minnesota Vikings are a better team than anyone gave them credit for ahead of the season. They’re the only team in the NFC North with a 2-0 record, and things look promising. For Houston, they’re hoping Danielle Hunter and Stefon Diggs have big games against their former squad.
The Vikings are 1.5-point underdogs this weekend and are +115 on the money line as of publishing. The game total is set at 46.0.
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