The Indianapolis Colts will play their first primetime game of the season on Sunday night against the Minnesota Vikings–a game that does come with important playoff implications.
Being in the NFC, Minnesota is a fairly uncommon opponent for the Colts. The last time these two teams met was in December of the 2022 season when the Vikings won—you know what, we won’t talk about that. Let’s focus on the upcoming game instead.
To help us preview this game, Andrew Harbaugh, the managing editor of Vikings Wire, answered a handful of questions to provide some insights into this 2024 Minnesota Vikings team.
What are some of the key elements that have led to Sam Darnold’s resurgence in Minnesota?
Harbaugh: Game scripts have played a big part for Darnold early in games to allow him to get into a groove and build confidence. Having players like Justin Jefferson, Aaron Jones, and now T.J. Hockenson around him has also helped. But the simplest thing, and perhaps the funniest thing in my opinion, is Kevin O’Connell has taken the critical thinking out of things for him.
Overall, at 5-2, what has gone well for the Vikings this season? Where do they excel?
Harbaugh: The parts of the game where the Vikings have thrived is in rushing the passer, taking what the defense has given them in terms of offense, and creating pressure to help out the defensive backs. Now, in the last two games, they have struggled to get pass-rush help and good coverage from their corners. Brian Flores could well be on his way to a head coaching job this offseason for how well the defense has played.
On the flip side, where have opponents found some success against this team?
Harbaugh: In recent week the Vikings have really struggled to protect against the run and it has killed them. Blake Cashman has missed the last two games which can’t be a coincidence, nor is the fact the last two games they have lost were during his absence. Stopping the run has become their biggest issue and it is one that has started to doom them.
Who is one under the radar player on offense to know and one on defense?
Harbaugh: On offense it has to be Jalen Nailor, he has taken the next step in his development and become a safety valve for the entire offense. He blocks well on every plays, plays to the whistle, and is there to make critical third down catches for Sam Darnold when he needs it.
On defense, Andrew Van Ginkel has flown under the radar and had a very good season. He should be in the conversation for Defensive Player of the Year with the touchdowns he has (2) and the sacks and pressures he has created.
What does the Vikings’ path to victory look like?
Harbaugh: For the Vikings to find a path to victory they need to get to Joe Flacco, hold the Colts to under 100 yards rushing as a team, and force turnovers. They literally need those three things to happen for them or I don’t see a path to victory for them. This entire season has taken a turn and I have a hard time seeing them turning it around until I can see them doing it.