Minnesota's skill players will have trouble hearing Favre's audibles as the crazed fans of Louisiana will raise the decibel level inside the enclosed stadium. If this forces the Vikings to simplify their playcalling, they will have no hesitation to put the ball in the hands of Pro Bowl RB Adrian Peterson. While his 5th place finish in rushing yards was disappointing, much of the blame can be put on the offensive line, who were continually overpowered by opposing defenses. Peterson's ability to stay on his feet after contact and plow ahead for additional yards will pay dividends against a New Orleans defense starting defensive tackles Sedrick Ellis and Remi Ayodele, both weighing in at over 300 pounds. After unleashing Peterson on the Saints, who allow 4.5 YPC, Favre should see some open passing lanes to exploit. The ageless wonder may be missing his most explosive receiver, rookie Percy Harvin, who is listed on the Injury Report (link in the sidebar to the right) as questionable. Should Harvin be unable to play, the Vikings can still hurt the Saints with Sidney Rice and receiving tight end Vishante Shiancoe.
Drew Brees is at the helm of the NFL's most powerful offense. In 2008, Brees became the 2nd quarterback in NFL history to pass for over 5,000 yards in a season. A more balanced attack this year has caused a decline in yardage, but the potential remains. New Orleans is fully capable of picking apart Minnesota's 19th ranked pass defense. Defensive end Jared Allen creates problems for an offense that doesn't run with regularity. Minnesota finished the season with one of the league's most impressive run defenses. But linebacker E.J. Henderson was lost to a gruesome leg injury in early December.
Points will be plentiful. There will be turnovers. Harvin and Reggie Bush are ridiculously explosive. Both teams have Pro Bowlers in the secondary.
Prediction: NO 34 MIN 27
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