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

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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Oct 2, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) signals against the Chicago Bears in the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 2, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) signals against the Chicago Bears in the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports /

#5. Get to Matt Stafford

Recently, the Vikings pass rush has struggled to get to quarterbacks. This is a bit of a surprise considering how they opened the season as an absolute wrecking crew, making games miserable for opposing quarterbacks.

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Last time they faced off against the Lions, the pass rush struggled in a big way. They were only able to bring Stafford down once and get 4 hits on the quarterback. That will need to change if they hope to disrupt the Lions passing offense.

Sadly, the Lions won’t make it easy on Minnesota. Not only 23 sacks on the season, but they have the ability to dump the ball off to the running back or plan for other quick throws to ensure Stafford has options.

With some solid run defense and a hand in Matthew Stafford’s face all game, this is a game where the Vikings could bring home a win on Thursday. Of course, the Lions will have a lot to say about that.

Next: 5 WILD Vikings predictions in week 12 vs Detroit

Do you agree or disagree with these keys to victory? Have any that you’d like to add to the list? Be sure to discuss them in the comments below. Also, be sure not to miss the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving!