5 Bold Predictions: Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions – Week 14
By Chris Schad
Hockenson will score a touchdown
A lot was made of the Vikings’ acquisition of T.J. Hockenson, but he hasn’t had the massive impact that many were hoping for since his arrival at the trade deadline.
In five games with the Vikings, Hockenson has more catches (30) than in his seven games with the Lions (26), but his yards per catch have been cut in half, averaging 7.5 yards per reception compared to 15.2 with the Lions.
A big change in Hockenson’s production has come at Ford Field. Hockenson put up big numbers in four home games with the Lions this season, catching 18 passes for 323 yards and two touchdowns. It’s worth mentioning that Hockenson exploded for eight catches, 179 yards, and two touchdowns in a Week 4 game against the Seattle Seahawks, but the Lions have a defense that could allow a similar outburst.
Detroit’s defense ranks ninth in the league with 60 receptions and 10th with 649 yards allowed against tight ends. What could be more beneficial for the Vikings is that the Lions have allowed eight touchdowns to tight ends this season, and only the Arizona Cardinals have allowed more.
Hockenson took advantage of another defense that struggled against tight ends when he caught his lone Vikings touchdown in a win over the New England Patriots. With the added “revenge game” narrative, the former Lion should be able to find the end zone on Sunday.