Minnesota Vikings at Carolina Panthers: Week 3 Preview

There are a number of intriguing clashes set for week three of the 2016 season. Topping the list are the Minnesota Vikings visiting the Carolina Panthers.

No doubt this could be not just a regular season preview but also a glimpse of a possible game fans will see again in January. Could the outcome of this contest set the tone for what follows? Here is the preview and the prediction to help set the tone.

Background:

It’s never a bad thing when two teams who are expected to figure prominently in the playoff picture get together. Minnesota lead the NFC North at 2-0 while hosting Carolina are the defending NFC champions. In many ways the two teams are mirrors of each others. They play an old school brand of football built around tough defense, running the ball and controlling the line of scrimmage. This should make for a pretty physical contest.

Injuries:

Adrian Peterson (knee) – Though he wasn’t running well to start the season, it’s never been wise to doubt the abilities of Adrian Peterson. That is until he underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his knee. He will be out months now, leaving the Vikings in a difficult position regarding their running game.

Jonathan Stewart (hamstring) – Seems this game could threaten to become an aerial circus with the big-name running backs who have gone down. Jonathan Stewart will also be out as he deals with a nagging hamstring problem. Carolina hopes backup Fozzy Whittaker continues to have success in his stead.

Key Matchup:

Kelvin Benjamin vs. Trae Waynes

The Packers abused young Vikings corner Trae Waynes in week two before he avenged his ugly performance with a big interception. His task won’t get any easier in Carolina where he’ll have face off with the 6’5″ monstrosity that is Kelvin Benjamin. He’s shown no ill-effects from his knee injury and is once again a favorite target in the passing game. Carolina is almost certain to throw some jump balls his way. Can Waynes avoid his persistent issues with penalties?

Prediction:  Panthers win 21-14

When both defenses are solid, it’s usually the better offense that wins the day. Sam Bradford and Stefon Diggs made plays against the Packers, but the Vikings don’t have near the options that Cam Newton does for the Panthers. Greg Olsen and Kelvin Benjamin will do enough to put them ahead late and hand Minnesota their first loss of the year.