Packers (8-2) at Vikings (4-5)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, US Bank Stadium, Minneapolis
TV: Fox
Tipico Sportsbook line: by 2 ⁄2
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Vikings’ keys to victory: Minnesota upset the Packers at Lambeau Field last year by running the ball and stifling the Green Bay offense. The Vikings need to do even more more at US Bank Stadium this week. Recently, Vikings QB Kirk Cousins has played a conservative style in the passing game. By extension, the Minnesota offense has looked timid and predictable. The Vikings need RB Dalvin Cook to burst through the line for at least a few big runs. But if the team can’t find receivers deep downfield, it won’t keep up. Cousins needs to help WRs Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen thrive.
Packers’ keys to victory: Green Bay has the NFC North all but locked up for a reason: The Packers’ offense is mostly high octane with Aaron Rodgers behind center. Don’t let the rare offensive blemishes fool you. Rodgers is back for Green Bay, so the Packers should have little trouble scoring and moving the chains against an inconsistent Vikings defense in an indoor stadium. Rodgers needs to stay healthy. The Packers’ quarterback also needs to get more receivers than just Davante Adams involved. If Green Bay has success with WRs Marquez ValdesScantling or Allen Lazard, that would put the Vikings away.
Matchup to watch: Vikings CB Patrick Peterson vs. Packers’ Adams. Vikings GM Rick Spielman said that Peterson would be ready for Week 11. Adams is one of the best wide receivers in the league; Peterson has been the Vikings’ top corner this year.
Who wins? Rodgers picks apart the Vikings’ secondary.
Packers, 31-20
Jack White, Vikings Wire
Packers