Minnesota Vikings at Denver Broncos: Week 4 Prediction

Sep 13, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) calls an audible over center Matt Paradis (61) in the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Ravens 19-13. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

This is easily one of the most interesting games of week 4. The Denver Broncos, an established contender, play host to the upstart Minnesota Vikings who are riding a winning streak that includes a convincing one over San Diego. Will their success against the AFC West continue?

Injuries

Jarius Wright a game-time decision with hand ailment

The weapons are drying up fast for Teddy Bridgewater. With Charles Johnson already out due to a rib injury, other key receiving target Jarius Wright is faced with possibly missing the game as well due to a hand problem. He’s questionable at this point and will be declared active or inactive by game time.

Ty Sambrailo out with shoulder injury

The problems at left tackle are becoming acute for the Broncos. Already down Pro Bowler Ryan Clady for the year, the team must now go without his promising rookie replacement Ty Sambrailo, ailing with a shoulder problem. This could put Peyton Manning in a difficult position against a good Vikings front.

Key Matchups

T.J. Clemmings vs. Von Miller

So far rookie right tackle T.J. Clemmings has held up well filling at right tackle for Phil Loadholt. He’s about to get his first real trial by fire though as he faces against All-Pro pass rusher Von Miller. The Broncos star presents all sorts of challenges and Clemmings will need to meet them all if the Vikings want to win.

Xavier Rhodes vs. Demaryius Thomas

After getting through a concussion from last week, it seems cornerback Xavier Rhodes should be okay to play. That’s good because the Vikings will need his help trying to stop star Broncos receiver Demaryius Thomas. He hasn’t had a breakout game yet, but history says that’s coming at some point. Minnesota must make sure it’s not them.

Fantasy

Sit: Adrian Peterson

Knowing the Vikings receiving corps is banged up, the Broncos defense (#1 in NFL) will be free to shift their entire focus towards stopping Adrian Peterson. They have a big defensive front, athletic linebackers and tough safeties. There is no reason to believe Peterson should be able to get going on the road against them.

Start: Emmanuel Sanders

The Vikings have a good defense but they’ve had their share of troubles in pass defense against quicker wide receivers. That was true of Golden Tate and Keenan Allen over the past two weeks. Rest assured Peyton Manning will put that to the test with Emmanuel Sanders, who is enjoying another strong start to the season (22 catches, 239 yards, 2 TDs).

Prediction: Broncos win 30-20

Denver is gaining serious momentum over the past few weeks. Their defense is already the best in football and now their offense has figured out some things and begun to play much better. Minnesota should give them a game, but the home field and more experienced quarterback will tell the tale in this one.

Next: Houston Texans at Atlanta Falcons: Week 4 Prediction

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