What to know when the Vikings visit the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday:
Vikings vs. Jaguars
When >> Noon Sunday
Where >> EverBank Stadium, Jacksonville, Fla
TV >> KMSP Ch. 9
Radio >> KFXN-FM 100.3
Line >> Vikings -6.5
Over/Under >> 43.5
Keys for the Vikings
• There is going to be an opportunity for the Vikings to move the ball through the air. In total, the Jaguars allow 264.3 yards passing per game, which ranks No. 31 in the NFL in that particular stat category. It’s not hard to imagine quarterback Sam Darnold slicing and dicing the secondary with star receiver Justin Jefferson as the focal point. If the Vikings are able to gain chunk yardage when they pass, they should be in good position to win the game.
• It sounds like backup quarterback Mac Jones is going to get the nod for the Jaguars with starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence nursing a shoulder injury. That should have the Vikings licking their chops on defense. It wouldn’t be surprising to see defensive coordinator Brian Flores dial up the pressure with hopes of making life miserable for Jones.
Keys for the Jaguars
• As much praise as the Vikings have garnered on defense this season, they are allowing 250.0 yards passing per game. If the Jaguars can protect long enough for Jones to rip the ball downfield, there could be an opportunity to have some success. That’s probably a better bet for the Jaguars than to rely on the ground game considering how good the Vikings have been at stopping the run.
• If the past couple of months are any indication, Darnold could make a decision that results in a turnover-worthy play for the Vikings. It’s imperative the Jaguars make him pay in that scenario. As underdogs, winning the turnover margin is something that would likely keep the Jaguars in the game.
— Dane Mizutani