This game between the New England Patriots (5-1) and the Minnesota Vikings (2-4) could be special for many reasons. Randy Moss returns to Gillette Stadium after being traded to Minnesota a few weeks ago. Vikings quarterback Brett Favre likely makes his last return to New England. The big question that surrounds this game is: will Brett play? Right now he’s a game-time decision. Whether he plays or not, this game could very well end the Vikings’ season with a loss. I am wondering how many Patriots fans will wear Randy Moss masks.
When the Patriots Run: Push
The Patriots are 14th in rushing yards per game and the Vikings are 11th in stopping it. New England will look to mix it up between Benjarvis Green-Ellis and the ever-so-tough/elusive Danny Woodhead. The key in my mind is using Woodhead as a receiving threat.
When the Vikings Run: Push
The Vikings are 7th in rushing yards per game and the Patriots are 9th in stopping it. The Vikings will look to give Adrian Peterson many opportunities to run wild, but the Patriots are improving against the run. Their strategy has been to move those defensive linemen around, especially Vince Wilfork.
When the Patriots Pass: Push
The Patriots are 17th in passing yards per game and the Vikings are 13th in stopping it. The Patriots should have some success moving the football, just not in large chunks. Look for them to target Welker, Branch, and Hernandez early and often.
When the Vikings Pass: Push
As bad as the Patriots secondary has been, the Vikings passing game has been almost as bad. Minnesota averages just 182 yards per game through the air, which is pretty bad. They now have Randy Moss, but just how effective will a hurt Favre or a rusty Tarvaris Jackson be?
Special Teams: Advantage Patriots
The Patriots have an elite kickoff returner in Brandon Tate, who has brought two back to the house. Both teams are mediocre in terms of kickoff return defense. The Patriots rank 13th in punt return average while Minnesota ranks 27th. In punt return defense, the Patriots rank 7th while the Vikings are 1st. Stephen Gostkowski has made 10/13 field goals, and the Vikings have managed just 5 field goal attempts all year and are the only team to miss an extra point.
Prediction
New England 30, Minnesota 17
