Oakland Raiders Week 3 opponent preview: Minnesota Vikings

The Gameplan:

The defense for the Vikings is very aggressive when it comes to play-action and counters. Getting the running game going will help open up opportunities for the passing game and using short slants and short routes will help the offensive line not have to block for a long time against the dominate Vikings defensive line.

However, on defense, the Raiders need to pass-rush hardcore and force Cousins to make mistakes, especially in the red zone where he is prone to make mistakes. The Packers did a good job at swarming and switching up the bull-rush and speed-rushes against the Vikings which led to a lot of pressured throws by Cousins.

The Vikings should crumble if the pass-rush is fierce and strong. Darren Waller needs to be a focal point in the slot or on tight end screens to get that aggressive defense focused on the running back and keeping them distracted from Waller running a screen.

Overall, this is a game the Raiders should win. Both teams are coming off hard losses to divisional opponents and both teams need a win this week.