Vikings Power Rankings: National media dislikes Minnesota in Week 1

What do all those numbers mean for the Vikings?

Judging from the placement of the Vikings in these power rankings, it’s obvious that experts aren’t expecting much from the purple and gold. In fact, only two of the 10 outlets have them in the top half of their list.

The average of the ranking places Minnesota at 18.7 heading into the game against Cincinnati. That means Kirk Cousins’ group is looked at as a below-average team this season and will have to prove their worth if they want to climb up the charts.

The range of placement is eight places. That is a large spread considering there are only 32 teams in the league. Still, since this is the first power ranking of the regular season, expect that gap to close as the weeks go on.

Of the 10 rankings, three places are repeated: 17, 20, and 21. Having two of those being beneath the average isn’t a good sign since lowered expectations seem to be the theme for Minnesota this season.

Sadly, a win over the Bengals might not do much for their placement unless their victory is a dominant one in all three phases of the game. However, if Minnesota drops this game, they are likely to see their average fall a spot or two.

Where would you place the Vikings in your power rankings heading into Week 1 of the 2021 NFL season? And what do you think is the most important reason the national media is so down on the purple and gold? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.