5 Bold Predictions: Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions – Week 5
By Chris Schad
Minnesota will have five or more sacks
The defensive line was supposed to be a strength for the Vikings, but coming into Sunday’s game, they have just 12 sacks on the season. This inspired a spirited conversation with defensive coordinator Andre Patterson, who insisted that the Vikings’ main goal is to get pressure on the quarterback.
That shouldn’t be a problem this week as the Lions will be without three starters along the offensive line. All-Pro center Frank Ragnow was placed on injured reserve with a toe injury while Taylor Decker hit IR after a finger injury sustained in the preseason.
With starting right tackle Penei Sewell listed as questionable, the Lions’ offensive line should be ripe for the picking. That’s excellent news, in particular for Danielle Hunter, who has 11 career sacks against Detroit — more than any other team in the NFL.
If Hunter and the rest of the Vikings’ defense can get pressure, it should be a long day for Jared Goff.