Minnesota Vikings vs Seattle Seahawks Playoffs 2016 Preview, Team News: Vikings Looking for Revenge
The Minnesota Vikings go up against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday for the NFC Wildcard Game at the TCF Bank Stadium, with both teams wanting to extend their run this season and hopefully make it all the way to the Super Bowl.
The Vikings finished the regular season at 11-5, eventually winning the NFC North division on their final game. The Seahawks, on the other hand, finished at 10-6 and may be a slight favorite in this game after winning consecutive games to end the season.
Minnesota Vikings preview
Arguably the biggest weapon for the Vikings in this game and for any other succeeding game is Adrian Peterson, one of the league's best in rushing. With him on the ground, the Vikings have the clear advantage here. Also, the team's defense is a bit unappreciated, when in fact it may well be the one propelling them to victory on Sunday, thanks to the expected return of two players from recent injuries — Anthony Barr and Harrison Smith. But Minnesota's barometer will be sophomore quarterback, Teddy Bridgewater. If he plays well, they win. If not, they lose; simple as that.
Seattle Seahawks preview
Seattle has been a regular fixture in an NFL playoff scenario for the past four years. They have a winning tradition coupled with experience. The win against the Cardinals brought them here, but unlike in the past, they no longer will have home-field advantage. However, they might no longer need the support of their own home crowd because QB Russell Wilson has been playing magnificent, breaking team records in the process, including touchdowns and passing yards. It should also be an interesting thought if Marshawn Lynch, who's been out for almost two months after undergoing surgery for an abdominal injury, makes a return.
It is worth mentioning that the Seahawks dumped the Vikings 38-7 the last time they met, which actually is still fresh (four weeks ago). It's interesting to see how the Vikings respond this time.