Vikings vs. Packers Preview: Cousins Makes His Return

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Vikings and Packers Meet in a Compelling NFC North Matchup at Lambeau Field

The Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers meet at Lambeau Field at 1:00 p.m. Eastern in one of the most compelling games of the early slate. Despite being at the bottom of a highly competitive NFC North, both teams are considered among the NFL’s best.

Green Bay enters as the favorite after a dominant performance against the New England Patriots. Minnesota, meanwhile, hopes to answer its offensive questions by bringing in Kirk Cousins from the Las Vegas Raiders. Cousins is familiar with the offense and head coach, giving the Vikings hope that he can help them secure a much-needed road victory.

While many may favor Green Bay’s surging offense and lay the 2.5 points, Minnesota’s money line presents an intriguing alternative. Cousins’ familiarity with the system could help the Vikings’ offense return to its full potential.

Jordan Addison will be out, potentially creating more opportunities for Justin Jefferson. Jefferson averaged more than 99 receiving yards per game with Cousins, compared with 76.5 without him. That connection makes Jefferson an appealing touchdown option.

Tucker Craft’s receiving total is another option to consider. Although Minnesota has defended opposing tight ends well, Craft was one of Green Bay’s bright spots early in the season. Against an aggressive defense, Jordan Love may need to release the ball quickly, allowing Craft to block and then release into receiving opportunities.

For Minnesota, Gavin Bartholomew will replace TJ Hawkinson. Hawkinson’s absence, combined with Addison being unavailable, could result in a more conservative offensive approach featuring Aaron Jones, Jordan Mason and Jefferson. Establishing the run would also help Minnesota keep Love and Green Bay’s explosive receivers off the field.

Christian Watson could again spend more time working from the slot after doing so last week. That adjustment may be important against a Minnesota defense capable of forcing quick decisions.

Both defenses enter the matchup playing well, making an interception by each quarterback another possibility. The individual prices were around -160 on DraftKings, but pairing the two could offer a more appealing option. Minnesota’s defense will look to support Cousins, while Green Bay may try to capitalize on possible miscues between the quarterback and his receivers.