Storylines headed into the Saints vs. Viking game don’t revolve around the teams as individual units. It’s primarily about where they currently stand and what this game can do for them. Kirk Cousins’ injury provides the lone exception.
There are some similarities between these teams. They currently have identical records and would make the playoffs if the ended today. They’re both also entering this game looking to extend their longest win streaks of the season.
These are the 4 biggest storylines in the Week 10 game versus the Vikings:
1
Someone's winning streak has to end
New Orleans has won two games in a row for the first time since their two opening games of the season. Last week’s game wasn’t pretty for the offense. A win is a win, however. They’re looking to win a third consecutive game, which would be a season high.
Minnesota is on a winning streak of their own, and it’s seemed pretty improbable. The Vikings lost four of their first five games. Then, Justin Jefferson went on injured reserve with a hamstring injury. Since Jefferson’s injury, the Vikings have won four straight without their best player. They won the last game without Kirk Cousins, who is out for the season. They’ve also won three one score games, regaining some magic from last season.
2
Can the Saints break their bad habits?
The Vikings have two tendencies that could exploit areas of weakness for New Orleans: defending quarterback runs and handling the blitz. No team in the NFL blitzes more than the Vikings. The Saints struggled with diagnosing and handling extra rushers early in the season. The offensive line has improved, but this tendency will put that improvement to the test.
Stopping the quarterback from scrambling for yards has been an issue. It isn’t designed runs hurting them. Quarterback Joshua Dobbs has rushed the ball five or more times in seven games this year. The results have varied, but the frequency is the noteworthy aspect. New Orleans has let quarterbacks who don’t run the ball find success.
3
Joshua Dobbs making his first start
Joshua Dobbs had an impressive debut as a Viking, leading the Vikings to a game winning drive. He should have a greater grasp on the playbook and more plays at his disposal. He made pivotal plays with his legs, which comes from natural ability.
The passing game should be improved as well due to practicing all week as the starter. The Saints should be able to outduel Dobbs, but they also shouldn’t have to. New Orleans should be able to contain him and the Vikings offense.
4
Possible Wild Card ramifications
The Saints and Vikings both have a record of 5-4, good enough for the final playoff spot. The Vikings currently hold that position. The Saints lead the NFC South, so they don’t have to worry about the wild card, yet. Winning the division is an automatic playoff berth, but this game would provide some extra insurance. If these teams were to end tied for the 7th seed, this game would determine who gets last playoff berth.
