The first of four must-win games for the fading Vikings (6-6) to remain in playoff contention. Cosmetically this looks like a simple task against spiraling Jacksonville (2-10), which has lost seven straight. But nothing has come easy for Minnesota, which has lost six of seven and might not have hit rock bottom.
The Jaguars boast the fourth-ranked pass defense, yielding 311 yards per game, and they held the Broncos to 206 total yards last week. Minnesota ranks 31st in total offense and 25th in pass offense. Quarterback Sam Bradford has 13 touchdowns against just three interceptions. But he has been sacked 28 times behind a ravaged offensive line and is averaging a paltry 6.77 yards per pass attempt.
The Vikings have averaged just 14 points in their six losses. Something has to give. Turnovers, as usual, figure to be a determining factor. Jacksonville is tied with San Diego and the New York Jets with an NFL-high 25 turnovers. Minnesota has scored six touchdowns via defense and special teams.
Free safety Harrison Smith is out with an ankle injury. Look for second-year man Anthony Harris or veteran cornerback Terence Newman to replace him on the back end.
Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles is struggling. He only has completed 58.4 percent of his passes and has accounted for 19 turnovers, including a devastating interception Denver returned for a touchdown last week in the Broncos’ 20-10 victory.
Kickoff: Noon Sunday
Where: Everbank Field
TV: FOX Channel 9
Announcers: Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, Laura Okman (sideline)
Radio: KFXN-FM 100.3
Announcers: Paul Allen, Pete Bercich, Greg Coleman (sideline)
Referee: John Hussey
Series: Minnesota leads 4-1
Line: Vikings by 3 1/2