Two teams with high expectations for the 2008 season - but also 0-1 records after the season opener – will square off on Sunday as the Indianapolis Colts visit the Metrodome for a showdown with the Vikings. The last time Indianapolis played at the Metrodome was in 1997, a shootout the saw the Vikings win by a score of 39-28.
The 2008 season got off to a rough start for both the Colts and Vikings, as Peyton Manning and company were defeated at home by the Chicago Bears while the Vikings were dropped by the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on Monday Night Football. But the teams have a chance to rebound this week and get on the winning track.
Offensive efficiency – something the Colts typically excel at – was not achieved by Indianapolis in their Week 1 loss to the Bears. Manning had one touchdown pass and 257 yards passing, but he also threw the ball an exorbitant 49 times. Conversely, running back Joseph Addai had a mere 44 yards rushing on only 12 carries. Overall, Indianapolis averaged just 4.4 yards per offensive play, while the Bears posted a 5.1-yard average per play.
Defensively, the Colts were able to slow Kyle Orton and the air attack. But rookie running back Matt Forte burst onto the NFL scene in his first game with 123 yards and a touchdown on 23 attempts, gashing the Colts defense for several long runs, including a 50-yard touchdown run.
In Sunday’s game, look for the Colts to employ a more balanced offensive attack against Minnesota, featuring Addai and a stable of running backs as well as Manning and his handful of reliable receivers. The Vikings allowed 139 net rushing yards last week in Green Bay, so you can be assured that Indianapolis will look to crack the usually staunch Vikings run defense.
Another factor in the game will be the health and play of Manning, who is coming off offseason knee surgery.
Lastly, the matchup of Adrian Peterson and the Vikings ground game against the Colts rush defense will be an important factor in the contest. Peterson rushed for 103 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries last week in Green Bay, and a similar effort this week would go a long way for the Vikings.
The Colts will play their first game within the division following this week’s battle with the Vikings, as they host the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Vikings will remain home next week, hosting John Fox and the Carolina Panthers on Sunday at noon.