16-1 Isn’t Happening, Folks
Fans should be optimistic about their Vikings. Indeed, there are at least a few notable reasons to expect improvement, new coaching staff and increased defensive talent foremost among them. Even the most optimistic among us, though, would be shocked to see the Vikings turn in a historically great 16-1 season.
Recently, Vikings Territory responded to the news that Colin Cowherd predicted a 16-1 season for the Minnesota Vikings. Like Dustin, I just don’t see this happening (though I’d be thrilled to be wrong). The suggestion is probably hyperbolic, a way for Cowherd to underscore his purple optimism.
The year begins with a challenging home game against the reigning-division-champion Green Bay Packers. Taking on Aaron Rodgers and that talented defense is no one’s idea of an easy game. Rather, it’s one that – at best – is a coin flip. The next game takes place on Monday night against the Eagles. A couple weeks later, it’ll be New Orleans in London. What I’m trying to suggest, folks, is that there are a few spots in the opening moments of the season where the Minnesota Vikings may stumble.
After the bye, the Vikings will need to contend with the Bills, the Bears (a team that always finds a way to make life challenging for Minnesota), and the Packers in Lambeau. Sprinkled in are the Cowboys, Patriots, Cardinals, and Commanders. These teams likely won’t be dominant but will mirror Minnesota insofar as they’ll move between middling and strong.
The great wild card in all of this is Kevin O’Connell, a first-time head coach. He could be anywhere from disastrous to sensational. In all likelihood, he’ll be good but will have some growing pains. My expectation is that this team will find itself somewhere around 10-7.
Per PFR, Minnesota finished the 2021 season 24th in points allowed and 14th in points for. That translates to allowing an average of 25.1 points against while piling up 25 for, numbers that very fittingly led to a mediocre record. The roster has enough talent to far surpass this recent history. If successful, Minnesota will improve on their 8-9 record, but don’t expect them to miraculously flirt with a perfect season.
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