4 keys to victory for the Vikings vs. the Lions in Week 9

Here are four keys to victory for the Minnesota Vikings against the Lions.

Things could finally start heading in the right direction for the Minnesota Vikings. They are coming off a hugely impressive win over the Green Bay Packers in Week 8 and have the chance to topple another NFC North rival this weekend at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Getting two consecutive victories is something the Vikings haven’t been able to accomplish this season. They are 2-5 for a reason. But their last outing leaves plenty of reasons to be encouraged coming up against a Lions team that has been hit and miss so far.

Although their performances overall are evidence to the contrary, Minnesota isn’t out of the playoff hunt just yet. There is an extra spot up for grabs in 2020 and the Vikings also have some winnable games upcoming on their schedule that might be able to generate some real momentum down the stretch.

Detroit will have quarterback Matthew Stafford available for the contest after he was taken off the reserve/COVID-19 list on Saturday. But the former No. 1 overall pick will be without the services of stud wide receiver Kenny Golladay, who has endured a frustrating time with injuries of late.

This is a high-stakes game for both teams and could go a long way to determining their fortunes for the remainder of the campaign. Here are four keys to victory for the Vikings in Week 9.