Courtesy of the Minnesota Vikings
1. Handling the Vikings pressure: Both quarterback Drake and the offensive line will have their hands full against the Vikings multiple defense. Old friend Brian Flores runs an aggressive, attacking defense which utilizes a lot of bluff and simulated pressure. Maye has to win in pre-snap with his decision making and adjust post snap when he gets a different look. He needs to be on the same page with offensive line and his receivers.
The offensive line must do a good job of communicating and staying patient. They cannot overcommit to one or two defenders and leave other defenders unblocked. Talking pre-snap and adjusting post snap will be key.
2. Set a physical tone: The Patriots will use the two joint practices to build off what they did last week against the Commanders. A commitment to running the football and being physical will be emphasized this week. It won’t be easy against one of the best defensive fronts in football but Vrabel will challenge his team to set a tone physically.
3. Banged up secondary will be challenged: The Patriots secondary will get some good work facing off against Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and TJ Hockenson. Not having Christian Gonzalez causes match up problems but it is practice. The rest of the secondary should get some much needed work against one of the top skill groups in the NFL.
4. Watching 1 on 1’s: The Patriots offensive and defensive lines will face a stern test against the Vikings up front. The offensive line in particular will get challenged by Jonathan Allen, Javon Hargrave, Andrew Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard. All four are explosive pass rushers who can win one on one’s. All eyes will be on Will Campbell but the rest of the line should be watched as well.
Defensively, the Patriots front should have success against a good but not great Minnesota offensive line. Milton Williams, Christian Barmore, Harold Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson should win their fair share of reps.
5. Receivers should thrive against the Vikings secondary: The Vikings secondary is average on paper. The Patriots receivers should have some success against Jeff Okudah, former UMass standout Isaiah Rodgers and Byron Murphy, especially in one on one’s and team periods.
The tight ends could have their hands full with Minnesota’s safeties however. Josh Metellus and Harrison Smith are good man cover safeties. Hunter Henry and company will be challenged.
The next two practices are a golden opportunity for the coaches to evaluate the roster and for players to step up and make a big impression. The Patriots will get a lot of good work in.