TAKE AN EARLY LEAD
If the Giants score first and force Minnesota quarterback Sam Darnold into more passing situations than Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell prefers, the pass rush of Brian Burns, Dexter Lawrence and Kayvon Thibodeaux can go to work. If the Vikes take an early lead, Minnesota will be able to keep the ball on the ground with longtime Packers running back Aaron Jones and control the pace of the game. So early points from Brian Daboll’s offense are critical.
PROTECT THE BALL
Brian Flores’ blitz-heavy Vikings defense is going to put Daniel Jones and the Giants’ offense in a lot of uncomfortable situations. Before the Giants score against those schemes, though, Daboll’s play-calling and Schoen’s offensive line will have to give Jones answers and protection. That will help Jones avoid rushed decisions, turnovers and short fields for Minnesota’s offense.
MANAGE THE GAME
The 41.5-point Vegas over/under and 1.5-point spread in Minnesota’s favor reinforces that both teams are limited. This projects to be a low-scoring game with one or two big plays or decisions making the difference. Daboll struggled last season in tight spots, coughing up three tight games to the Bills, Jets and Rams by mismanaging situational football. So while taking over as the full-time offensive playcaller, he also must improve his decision-making in the biggest spots.