4 keys to victory for the Vikings against the Colts in Week 2

Get the tight ends more involved

The Minnesota Vikings have two talented tight ends in Kyle Rudolph and Irv Smith Jr. So the earlier they can get them involved, the better it is going to be for their chances.

Both players are consistent catching presences both over the middle and in the red zone. But the game got away from the Vikings so much that Rudolph and Smith Jr. received just three targets between them.

They might have been a victim of circumstance with Minnesota chasing the game for the majority against the Packers. Their lack of time on the field on offense is another element of the game that shouldn’t be overlooked. But if the Vikings can control the clock more efficiently against the Colts, then it should come with increased production from the duo.

If Rudolph and Smith Jr. want to make their presence felt more effectively in Week 2, then they will have to overcome a formidable Indianapolis linebacker corps which excels in run support and coverage in equal measure. How the pair copes in their face of some stern opposition is going to be a big factor in the overall outcome and it is a battle they must win in no uncertain terms.

There is little doubting the skills that Rudolph and Smith Jr. bring to the table. Maximizing their impact on proceedings is a conundrum that Gary Kubiak must solve. But some improvements are expected thanks in no small part to just how low the bar is set regarding their involvement last time out.