The Viking Age
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5 keys to victory: Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions in week 12

By Adam Carlson

Nov 6, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Golden Tate (15) is tackled by Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr (55) during the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 6, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Golden Tate (15) is tackled by Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr (55) during the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 20, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions running back Theo Riddick (25) is tackled by Jacksonville Jaguars strong safety Johnathan Cyprien (37) during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions running back Theo Riddick (25) is tackled by Jacksonville Jaguars strong safety Johnathan Cyprien (37) during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /

#4. Make Detroit run the ball

While the Vikings run game this year has been atrocious, the Lions haven’t exactly been tearing things up on the ground either.

Detroit averages less than 80 yards per game on the ground, and have scored only 4 rushing touchdowns this year. If the Vikings can force the Lions to run the football instead of pass, the team could have a much better chance at shutting down the potent Lions offense.

Matt Stafford not having Calvin Johnson this season has opened up a whole new world for him. He’s been spreading the ball around in a big way and finding success getting into the end zone by forcing single coverage and not allowing defenses to cheat.

This will by far be the most difficult task for the Minnesota defense in week 12, but it should be a top priority with the Vikings coming off a big performance against the Arizona Cardinals in week 11.

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