Vikings Looking Forward to Week 7 Divisional Matchup

The Minnesota Vikings are looking to carry the momentum of their two-game winning streak into Soldier Field for a big divisional showdown against the Da Bears this week. Both teams are currently sitting at 3-3 with the winner of Sunday’s matchup having at least a share of first place in the tight NFC North.

This should be a typical, smash-mouth style NFC North game, with the emphasis being on controlling the line of scrimmage and running the ball. With many of Chicago’s offensive receiving weapons nicked up, Minnesota will want to key in on rookie Bears running back Matt Forte, trying to take him out of the game early.

Bernard Berrian will be making his first appearance in Chicago since signing with Minnesota this past off-season, and I’m sure that he will be out to show Chicago what they missed in not locking him up themselves. I’m expecting a big day from him. I’m also looking for Adrian Peterson to hit the century mark again on 20-25 carries. AP must be more conscious of protecting the ball this week after losing two fumbles to the Lions last week.

Finally, the Vikings have to be very aware of their punt/kickoff placement and coverages for same this week as Devin Hester will be returning again for the Bears. Minny learned their lesson in Week 5 when they got torched by Reggie Bush for two PR TD’s. There is no shame in punting the ball out of bounds!

In what should be a tightly contested game, I have to give the edge to Chicago on this one for the sole reason that they have home field advantage…a last second field goal could very well be how this one ends. If Minny can dominate the Bears O-line, then the Vikings may very well find themselves atop the NFC North by the end of the day Sunday.

- Jesse Noonan

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