The New England Patriots look to turn things around after an upset loss to the Dolphins last week.
Much of the hype leading up to this game is being rightfully overshadowed by Adrian Peterson's indictment on child endangerment, which has him inactive for Sunday.
Records:
Vikings: 1-0
Patriots: 0-1
Last Meeting: Patriots won 28-18 in 2010
Key Stat: Last weekCordarrelle Patterson became the first Vikings receiver to rush for over 100 yards in a game, finish with 102 and a score.
Minnesota Outlook: The biggest story surrounds the allegations and current legal process involving Adrian Peterson. He will not play on Sunday, with his status for future games likely coming sometime next week.
Minnesota will move forward without him, riding high off a 34-6 drubbing of St. Louis. Dynamic threat Cordarrelle Patterson had a huge showing, rushing for 105 yards and a touchdown, while adding three catches for 26 yards.
Backup runners Matt Asiata and Jerrick McKinnon will fill in at running back, looking to help replace the lost production of All-pro Peterson.
New England Outlook: Which offense is the real Patriots' offense? After scoring 20 points in the first half last week, the New England offense disappeared in the second half, getting shutout and ultimately losing to Miami.
New England should figure things out this week, and coupled with a defense that played well at times look to get in the win column in 2014.
After Shane Vereen scored last week, New England will look to get him more involved moving forward.
What to watch for: Without Peterson, the Vikings offense will face an uphill battle against a tough Patriots defense. Expect Matt Cassel to throw a bit more in this one, meaning the pressure is on guys like Greg Jennings, Kyle Rudolph and Cordarrelle Patterson.
What they're saying - Vikings:
Does Peterson deserve a second chance? (Daily Norseman)
What they're saying - Patriots:
How Patriots should defend Vikings receivers (Pats Pulpit)
Prediction:
Patriots - 30, Vikings - 23
The Patriots offense should turn things around this week, as Bill Belichick and Tom Brady rarely fall flat two weeks in a row. Even without Peterson, the Vikings can hang around in this game with explosive playmaker Cordarrelle Patterson.
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