Sunday brings arguably the most significant Minnesota Vikings regular season game in years. The Green Bay Packers come in with 11 wins and looking to avenge an early-season loss. Kevin O’Connell’s squad is pretty healthy, and a full complement of their defensive roster would be great to see.
Minnesota Vikings get a big boost
Harrison Smith returning to the starting lineup is a significant boost. His lack of presence was felt last weekend in how organized the Minnesota Vikings defense appeared. The veteran captain has no injury designation and is ready to rock. It would be great if linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. joined him.
Minnesota has been without Pace Jr. since Week 12 against the Chicago Bears. He missed the last four games while stashed on injured reserve, but there is optimism that he can play.
Pace Jr. was not available for Minnesota’s first game against Green Bay this year. If he can go Sunday, the Vikings would have their top linebacker pairing to deal with talented Packers running back Josh Jacobs. Pace Jr. has 59 tackles and three sacks in nine games this season.
Smith making his absence a brief one and being back for the biggest game of the season is a big development. Pace Jr. has seen a more extended absence, but will quickly be a difference maker once again.
Packers missing talent against Vikings
While Minnesota is healthy, the Packers do not have the same good fortune. Cornerback Jaire Alexander continues to duck the Vikings wide receivers and won’t be on the field Sunday. He isn’t the only player Matt LaFleur will be without.
Starting linebacker Quay Walker can’t go against Minnesota. He has 72 tackles and 2.5 sacks this season. The former first round pick is on pace to set career-high tallies across the board. The Vikings can hope to exploit the middle of Green Bay’s defense without one of their key contributors.
It remains to be seen if Christian Watson can play. He suffered a knee injury last week and would leave quarterback Jordan Love with one less weapon to utilize. With a questionable designation, his status is one to monitor on Sunday.
