Vikings Take on Packers in Key NFC North Matchup

Green Bay, Wisconsin — The Minnesota Vikings (4-6) visit the Green Bay Packers (6-3-1) this Sunday at 1 p.m. EST in a crucial NFC North matchup. With both teams looking to improve their playoff positioning, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

The Packers lead the series over the Vikings with a record of 66-60-3. In their last encounter, the Vikings edged the Packers with a 27-25 victory in Minneapolis on December 29, 2024. However, last week saw Minnesota suffer a narrow 19-17 loss at home, while Green Bay secured a 27-20 road win against the New York Giants.

The Vikings’ offense has struggled this season, currently ranking 27th overall and 22nd in scoring. Star wide receiver Justin Jefferson is facing difficulties; he has not surpassed 100 receiving yards in seven weeks, substantially impacting his performance despite being a top-level talent.

Conversely, the Packers’ offense ranks 12th overall and has shown potential, highlighted by wide receiver Christian Watson, who has stepped up as a reliable target following his return from injury. Watson caught two touchdown passes in their last game against the Giants and aims to continue his momentum in this weekend’s clash.

As for the running game, Vikings running backs Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon will need to push against a Packers defense that has allowed an average of 138.7 rushing yards in their last three outings. The Vikings look to leverage their running attack to ease the pressure on struggling quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who has the league’s worst completion rate among starting quarterbacks.

In terms of injuries, the Vikings will be without outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard (shoulder) but welcome back center Ryan Kelly (concussion). The Packers hope to see key players return, including cornerback Nate Hobbs (knee) and running back Brandon Jacobs (knee bruise), although their statuses remain uncertain as kickoff approaches.

The Vikings are attempting to break a lengthy road streak against the Packers, seeking their first three-game winning stretch in the series since the early 1990s. The intensity of the rivalry guarantees a competitive atmosphere at Lambeau Field this Sunday.

The Vikings and Packers’ resilience will be tested as they strive to gain an advantage moving forward in the crowded NFC playoff race.