In order for the New Orleans Saints to pull off a big win against the Minnesota Vikings, they’ll have to win some key matchups. One of which is more about a player versus the Vikings’ scheme than a player-vs-player battle.
Ultimately, this game may come down to play-callers, however, notably Saints head coach Kellen Moore will go up against Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores on Sunday.
Moore, the Saints’ offensive playcaller, will be tested often by Flores, who deploys blitzes and generates pressure among the highest rates in the NFL. While they battle it out from the sidelines, Saints quarterback Tyler Shough will have to show he can handle the pressure on the field.
QB Tyler Shough vs. Vikings’ Blitz
Rather than competing with any one coverage player or pass rusher, Shough will face off against a defense that blitzes more than 67% of the time.
Per Pro Football Focus, Shough has completed 71.9% of his passing attempts this season against the blitz. He’s gained 442 passing yards, four passing touchdowns and has thrown just one interception on those attempts.
Shough has been very effective in blitz situations. It will be interesting to see how he handles the exotic pressure packages of Flores on Sunday.
Saints EDGE Chase Young vs. Vikings’ OL Ryan Van Denmark
The Falcons had a strong gameplan in taking on edge rusher Chase Young in the Saints’ last game, but keeping Young at bay won’t happen for long.
With starting left tackle Christian Darrisaw sidelined, it’ll be backup tackle Ryan Van Demark in his place. Van Demark appeared in 22 snaps last week allowing a trio of pressures against the Miami Dolphins.
Young will be looking to make a statement about his club this weekend after an upsetting loss on Monday Night Football.
Saints CBs vs. Vikings WR Justin Jefferson
Like Saints wideout Chris Olave, Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson moves all along the offensive formation. That means he’ll draw coverages from a number of defenders including perimeter opportunities against cornerbacks Kool-Aid McKinstry and Quincy Riley.
Both corners gave up big plays against the Falcons in Week 4, and now will draw a tough matchup against Jefferson.
Health could play a factor here with Jefferson working to come back from an ankle injury. But the expectations are optimistic for his availability on Sunday.
