3 Bold Predictions for The Vikings Season
K. Joudry
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With the roster in place, it’s time to turn our attention toward the season. I’ve discussed the list of Vikings bold predictions before. Sam and I took on this topic on an episode of Notes from the North earlier in the offseason. Alas, the first game is nearly here, so I’m circling back.
Frankly, I’m not sure if these things will actually happen, which is part of the point. Making a prediction that seems quite likely to occur isn’t particularly bold. In some ways, then, one needs to reach for something that feels somewhat unlikely. I’ve tried to find a balance between “no chance” and “far too likely.”
With that being said, the predictions.
Prediction #1:
Kirk Cousins Throws for 5,000 Yards
Back in 2016, Cousins threw for more than 4900 yards, so he has come close to this milestone. There are now 17 regular season games and Kevin O’Connell’s offense is supposed to make life easy for the QB.
There is tremendous skill at both WR and RB. The tight end position, moreover, can be really good if Irv Smith Jr. is available. Bringing it all together, perhaps, is an offensive line that may show decent improvement from last season.
Prediction #2:
Za’Darius Smith & Danielle Hunter Combine for 30 Sacks
If one or both get hurt for a long time, this one won’t materialize. The hope is certainly that the top two edge rushers can be on the field for the whole season.
If they’re to get to 30, there will need to be a 15-sack average between the two. It’s ambitious but not impossible. I’m banking on Ed Donatell finding a way for his edge rushers to create a lot of pressure.
Similar to Cousins and his passing yards, I’m also keeping an eye on that 17th game.
Prediction #3:
A Top 10 Defense and Offense
Let’s start with the easier one.
In many ways, having a top 10 offense is the expectation. Even with all the struggles last season, the Vikings finished the year 14th overall with an average of 25 points per game. A decent step forward should be enough to push this group into the top 10.
Defensively, it’s a different story. The Vikings allowed 25.1 points per game, which was 24th overall. Getting into the top 10 will thus require a large improvement. If the aforementioned pass rushers are excellent, though, then we ought to see a much different defense.
Again, I’m putting some faith in Donatell, but of the three bold Vikings predictions, this is the one I’m most worried about.
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