Minnesota Vikings at Washington Redskins: 5 keys to victory

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Oct 23, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford (8) throws a pass under pressure by Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham (55) defense during the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles defeated the Vikings, 21-10. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 23, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford (8) throws a pass under pressure by Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham (55) defense during the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles defeated the Vikings, 21-10. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /

#5. Hold on to the football

It seems obvious to say that the Minnesota Vikings shouldn’t fumble. Holding on to the football as a ball carrier or protecting it as a quarterback is one of the essential rules in playing each of the “skill” positions in the league.

But that point isn’t as obvious when facing a team like the Washington Redskins. They are the #2 team in the NFL when it comes to forcing fumbles (12) and seem to attack the ball during the tackle better than most other teams in the league.

Minnesota still has a +12 takeaway differential this season, but they have lost some possessions due to fumbles. Particularly, the protection of Sam Bradford has resulted in some balls being batted out of his hand on a couple of occasions.

The Vikings will need to play conservative football on offense and not turn the ball over while picking up first downs to be successful against Washington, and that can’t happen if Minnesota puts the ball on the turf too many times.

Next: Vikings expected to stick with Blair Walsh at kicker

The Minnesota Vikings will take on the Washington Redskins at noon central time on Sunday, November 13, 2016. If they can accomplish these 5 keys to victory, they should be well on their way of walking away from the contest with a win during week 10 of the NFL season.

All team stats from NFL.com or Sporting Charts