The Minnesota Vikings are looking to put a blowout loss to the Green Bay Packers behind them as they face the Detroit Lions at home.
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The Minnesota Vikings are coming off a humiliating 42-10 loss on Thursday Night Football to the Green Bay Packers, and they are looking to even their record at 3-3 against the Detroit Lions.
Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater was missing for that game, but he will return to face the Lions. He has already shown the potential he has to be the Vikings’ future after a win over the Atlanta Falcons.
Their offense sputtered against the Packers, but running back Matt Asiata had a respectable performance as he rushed for 72 yards on 15 carries.
The Lions will present a much bigger defensive challenge than the Packers and Falcons though, as they rank first in the NFL in total defense while allowing 15.8 points per game, which is good for second in the league.
The Lions’ offense is also looking to get back on track after a heartbreaking loss to the Buffalo Bills. The running game looked shaky without Joique Bell in the lineup, as George Winn rushed for a team-leading 48 yards while Reggie Bush was held to 13 yards.
The kicking game was dreadful as Alex Henery, who is now released, missed three field goals. They signed Denver Broncos castoff Matt Prater to replace him.
They will have to continue without wide receiver Calvin Johnson, but Golden Tate has proven to be a useful weapon after catching seven passes for 134 yards and a touchdown against the Bills.
If Bridgewater can overcome a tough Lions defense, the Vikings have a chance at pulling off another upset win. However, their 11th-ranked pass defense will need to hold quarterback Matthew Stafford. Home-field advantage and a solid defense that won’t have to deal with Johnson will help them keep it close.
Prediction: Vikings 21, Lions 17
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