4 keys to victory for the Vikings against the Packers
By Dean Jones
Get Justin Jefferson involved
Not seeing Stefon Diggs playing for the Minnesota Vikings is going to be strange. The wide receiver was moved on to the Buffalo Bills for a haul of draft picks, which was probably for the greater good given his potential to disrupt team chemistry off the field.
Others will need to step up and fill the void. Adam Thielen comes with some health concerns after struggling with a hamstring problem in 2019 and there is plenty of intrigue surrounding Minnesota’s first-round pick Justin Jefferson and his ability to make an instant impact.
Jefferson comes into the NFL riding on the crest of a wave after playing a leading role in LSU’s historic season on their way to a National Championship. He finished his time in college with 2,415 yards, 165 receptions, and 24 touchdowns over a three-year period, which included 1,540 receiving yards and 19 scores in 2019.
He is a polished route-runner who can make things happen with the ball in his hands. Jefferson is also adept at catching under pressure, which will be another useful tool to call upon against the Green Bay Packers.
Putting too much on the rookie’s shoulders might be asking a lot. But it is a challenge that Jefferson is clearly ready for.
Kirk Cousins needs to get Jefferson involved early. And if he can make a big difference early on, it is going to open up other areas of the field for other playmakers to do damage.