5 questions with the Vikings opponent: Week 1 vs. the Packers

4. The Vikings will open the 2020 NFL season with no fans at U.S. Bank Stadium. What is your general feeling about how the lack of a crowd could impact a football game this year?

PB: On third downs or in big moments within the game, the lack of fans is going to help visiting offenses, especially at a place like U.S. Bank Stadium that can reach incredibly loud levels. With that said, as odd as it will be initially for everyone, once locked in an on the field, I think largely the players won’t notice it a whole lot.

My Take: The small crowd in attendance for Thursday Night Football wasn’t too big of a distraction from the game, but it could be different with zero fans in the stands. When at games, it feels like you have a little control over their opponents being able to hear calls in the huddle and making adjustments, but that opportunity won’t even be there for this game.

5. What is your prediction for what will happen in this Vikings/Packers game in Week 1? Include a score prediction, please.

PB: As I alluded to in question No. 1, I believe the Packers win. Last season the Vikings had a hard time stopping Davante Adams and Aaron Jones, and now they will have to do that with a young secondary – although they still have Harrison Smith – and no Danielle Hunter. I also think the Packer pass-rush is going to be too much for the Vikings’ offensive line and Kirk Cousins to handle.

Packers – 20

Vikings – 13

My Take: Of course, I don’t agree with this. I feel like the Minnesota Vikings are a more talented team and have the advantage of playing at home. The Packers shouldn’t be discounted though, since they will likely push the purple and gold until the final seconds tick off the clock.

Huge thanks go out to Paul Bretl of Dairyland Express for answering these questions for The Viking Age. Also, be sure to check out the questions that were asked of us when Getting to Know the Opponent earlier this week.