5 Bold Predictions: Minnesota Vikings vs. New England Patriots – Week 12

Patriots running backs will account for 250 total yards

One of the most disappointing elements of the Vikings’ loss to the Cowboys was their effort to stop the run. Tony Pollard and Ezekiel Elliott ran through the Minnesota defense all afternoon, and the end result was 151 rushing yards to help Dallas. Even worse was their effort in stopping both running backs in the passing game, where Pollard racked up six catches for 109 yards and two touchdowns.

You can bet that this was one of the first things Belichick noticed about the Vikings’ defense when watching last week’s tape. It’s even a safer bet to assume that Belichick will make Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson the focal point of this week’s game plan.

Stevenson is a physical presence that should be able to take advantage of a defensive front that was manhandled last week. Damien Harris isn’t as dynamic as Pollard but has enough to create a threat on the ground and in the passing game. Knowing the Patriots, they could have someone on their practice squad just waiting to strike.

The good news is that the Vikings might get Dalvin Tomlinson back after he missed two games with a calf injury and the Patriots’ offensive line ranks 23rd in PFF’s run-blocking grade this season. The Patriots should be able to devise a game plan, however, and create another long night in the trenches.