3 reasons why the Vikings will beat the Packers in Week 8

3. Improved run game makes Vikings offense more dynamic

Minnesota's ground game just hasn't been what we're used to in 2023, but during Monday's performance, the run game played a vital part in the offense's success.

It wasn't always pretty, but the ability to make teams sell out to defend the run has opened up the passing game in a way that we really haven't seen under Kevin O'Connell.

In 2023, the game plan for most defenses has been to stop the passing game and, more specifically, stop Justin Jefferson, and you have a good shot at winning.

Now, with running backs Alexander Mattison and Cam Akers improving their game, O'Connell can pick his poison as to how he wants to attack teams.

The Packers defensive back room has been hit with the injury bug as of late, and while it is expected that star cornerback Jaire Alexander is going to play in this game, the unit itself has underperformed. When Jefferson is healthy, the Packers like to employ Alexander and safety help to try and stop the star receiver.

Jefferson being out may be a blessing in disguise for this Vikings offense in this game; the Packers may test their luck, leaving Alexander on an island with Jordan Addison, which opens up the likes of KJ Osborn and T.J. Hockenson in position for big games and, at times, leaving the Packers defense susceptible to big plays in the run game.