Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers: 5 keys to victory

The Minnesota Vikings will host the Green Bay Packers on November 22, 2015. Here are the five things they must do in order to win the big NFC North match-up.

It is always a big game when the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers play against each other. Not only are the two teams division rivals, but their states share a border and the fans of both teams interact on a regular basis. Recently, the Packers have gotten the best of the Vikings, winning the last 4 NFC North titles.

But this isn’t the Minnesota Vikings team of old. Mike Zimmer has installed his tough method of defense and has former NFL MVP Adrian Peterson hitting on all cylinders. On the other hand, the Packers are currently on a 3 game slide and are struggling to get things going offensively.

Despite Green Bay’s struggles, this should be one heck of a hard game for both teams. Because of that, I’ve put together my 5 keys to victory for the Minnesota Vikings if they hope to protect TCF Bank Stadium and stay in command of the division.

Here are my keys to victory:

Get pressure on Aaron Rodgers. Green Bay’s star quarterback admitted recently that he got scared when he saw defenders coming at him. He is also dealing with a shoulder problem. Being a wounded quarterback with a bad offensive line against this Minnesota Vikings pass rush is NOT a good thing for Rodgers.

Execute quick passes efficiently. Green Bay will likely take the route that other teams have recently. They’ll look to shut down Adrian Peterson and force Teddy Bridgewater to beat them through the air. This mean’s the 23-year-old quarterback will need to make good, fast decisions and continue moving the chains.

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Don’t allow yards after the catch.

The Minnesota Vikings have done a great job at stopping plays before they gain huge yardage. They have accomplished this through solid tackling and taking smart angles. Green Bay has a roster full of talented, elusive players, so the boys in purple will have to be at their best.

Wide receivers need to get open. Teddy Bridgewater has watched his pass catchers the last couple weeks, but has hesitated to pull the trigger. These wide receivers need to run tight routes at full speed to help out the passing game as much as possible. Green Bay’s speedy young corners will be a big test for the team.

Don’t give up on the ground game. It’s not that I think the Minnesota Vikings would, but even if Adrian Peterson isn’t picking up big yardage per carry early on, wearing down the Green Bay defensive line is an important part of victory. And, let’s be honest, Adrian is one of those guys that will break a big run given enough opportunities.

Don’t miss the Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings when they face off for the first time in the 2015 season. You can catch the game at 3:25 pm central time on Sunday, November 22, 2015. Check your local listings for time and availability.

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