Week 16 comes to a close as two rivals clash for the second time this year. The Green Bay Packers (11-3) visit the Minnesota Vikings (10-4) with the NFC North title on the line. Green Bay won the first meeting at Lambeau (21-16) in Week 2. Aaron Rodgers and first-year head coach Matt LaFleur were still in the process of learning each other back then and it was Green Bay’s defense that led the way to victory that time. However, Minnesota was having their own offensive issues early. Star wide receivers Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs went out of their way to be critical of the scheme and play of Kirk Cousins to begin the year when the Vikings operated as a very run-heavy team.
Soon the rhythm was found for all parties and the skill of Dalvin Cook was too much to ignore and Minnesota transformed into a complete team seemingly overnight. Green Bay has also seen an improvement offensively and at one point, Aaron Rodgers was squarely in the running for the MVP—before Lamar Jackson claimed it as his own.
Both teams have already secured their spots in the postseason but the winner of this game could potentially also take home the division title and get a home playoff game. Were the Packers to win things would be settled as they’d have a two-win advantage with one game left to play. Minnesota would need win their final two games if they have any shot at controlling their seeding.
Rodgers and Cousins will both attempt to lead their team to victory tonight, however, both are bolstered by strong running games. Minnesota might be down to their third-string running back (Mike Boone) but their whole backfield has been able to do damage this season. Green Bay has a two-headed monster in Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams begins Rodgers, Jones has been a touchdown machine and Williams is no slouch as his back up either. This game will come down to which defense can better stifle their opponent for the full 60 minutes.
PREDICTION: PACKERS 27 , VIKINGS 17
Recent Comments