Vikings Podcast: Digging Into the Specific Predictions

K. Joudry |

Jul 17, 2023

Not too long ago, I ventured into some ultra-specific stat predictions for the Vikings. Well, it’s time to circle back around. In the latest episode of Notes from the North – a Vikings Podcast – Sizzlin’ Sam and I discuss the predictions for the 2023 season.

Vikings Podcast: 07.17.2023

Take a peak at what Sizzlin’ Sam has to say about the episode: “On this week’s episode of Notes from the North, Kyle goes through some oddly specific predictions on some player performances for the upcoming season.” Succint and to the point, Sizzlin’ Sam never fails to deliver.

NFL: New York Jets at Minnesota Vikings — Dec 4, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; New York Jets quarterback Mike White (5) runs the ball while Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jordan Hicks (58) defends during the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

One take that I’ve grown increasingly fond of is the belief that we’ll see Hicks more than double his blitz total from last season. For a reason that escapes my mind, Hicks only got to blitz 17 times last year — an average of once per game — even though he has a long history of getting sent a ton. Expect the veteran linebacker to be used in a different manner with Brian Flores calling the shots.

Moreover, I remain a believer in Josh Metellus and his potential to shine in 2023. The competitive, physical safety is going to be tasked with a variety of responsibilities for Flores. In Week 1, I think we’ll see Lewis Cine starting alongside Harrison Smith. The first off the bench will be Metellus, who gets blended into the secondary as a CB/S hybrid.

Aug 14, 2022; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Minnesota Vikings safety Josh Metellus (44) tackles Las Vegas Raiders running back Austin Walter (32) during a preseason game at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Of course, there are several more predictions in the aforementioned piece (found here), so readers/listeners can feel free to give it a shot.

The other guesses include stats for Kirk Cousins, Greg Joseph, and Harrison Smith.

Making offseason predictions isn’t for the faint of heart. Last year, my bold predictions included claiming that Za’Darius Smith and Danielle Hunter would combine for 30 sacks and that Kirk Cousins would surpass 5,000 passing yards. Neither outcome came to fruition, but cheering for these things to transpire did make the games more entertaining.

Jul 29, 2022; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings outside linebackers Danielle Hunter (99) and Za’Darius Smith. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports.

Folks who are into Vikings podcasts or think they’d like to get into Vikings podcasts should feel free to give Notes from the North a shot. Hop over to iTunes, Spotify, or Podbean. My understanding is that you don’t need an account at these spots. Just press play and enjoy the pod.

Enjoy the listening, Vikings fan.

Also Read:
The Vikings Captain Contenders for 2023