Predictions for Vikings vs. Commanders, Week 9

Can the Washington Commanders [4-4] win their fourth game in a row Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings [6-1]?

The Vikings present the stiffest test Washington has faced during its current three-game winning streak. While the Vikings defense isn’t as stout as it was in the Mike Zimmer years, it’s still a competent group, particularly the pass rush.

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Minnesota’s offense is easily the best group the Commanders have faced during the winning streak. Running back Dalvin Cook and wide receiver Justin Jefferson are two of the best in the NFL at their respective positions. Former Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins is playing well but is always one mistake away from blowing the game.

Who wins?

Bryan Manning

This game will be close. The Vikings have won five in a row, all decided by one score. In Washington’s three-game streak, the Commanders have won by a combined eight points.

Sunday’s game will be about which quarterback makes the fewest mistakes. Washington quarterback Taylor Heinicke will have an opportunity to make plays against a questionable secondary.

Can the Commanders get enough pressure on Cousins to force some mistakes?

Ultimately, I believe Jefferson is the deciding factor in this game, and Washington struggles to stop him.

Vikings 23, Commanders 17

Ivan Lambert

The black uniform silliness reveals further naivete in leadership seeing change as progress. Are the team’s colors Burgundy & Gold or not?

Does this marketing distraction fool you?

Back to football.

The Vikings have repeatedly pulled out close wins. Heinicke must get the ball out quickly to McLaurin and Samuel. The third-down offense must be much better this week than it was against the Colts last week.

The Commanders run defense will need to contain Dalvin Cook because Cousins likes those bootlegs and play action passes. Justin Jefferson can strike so quickly for the big play.

So the Commanders offensive line needs to keep the ball away from the Vikings, and the ball needs to be in Antonio Gibson’s hands most.

Commanders 24, Vikings 23