Date: October 1st, 2023

Time: 1:00 ET 

Location: Bank of America Stadium 

Television: FOX

​​The Minnesota Vikings and Carolina Panthers will face off in a Week 4 NFC showdown on Sunday, October 1st at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. Both teams are currently 0-3. Additionally, this game could be a must-win for both teams if they want to stay in the playoff race. Historically, if they are a team is unable to win a game by this time in the season, they are not likely to make the playoffs. Therefore, we are going to see an all-out battle in this game on Sunday.

Vikings Fall Short in Week 3 

The Vikings are coming off a heartbreaking 28-24 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 3. Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins had a solid game, throwing for 335 yards and two touchdowns. Yet, the Vikings’ Defense couldn’t stop the Chargers in the second half. Ultimately, they lost and fell short to the Los Angeles Chargers. In the end, this was their third loss of the season. 

Panther’s Struggle Against Seahawks 

The Panthers are coming off a 37-27 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 3. Meanwhile, Bryce Young missed the game because of an injury. Consequently, P.J. Walker started in his place. Furthermore, Walker struggled, throwing for just 168 yards and two interceptions. In conclusion, the Panthers’ defense also struggled. They finally, gave up 432 total yards to the Seahawks. To sum it up, this was their third loss of the season. In the end, they are hoping to come back stronger in this week’s game against the Vikings. 

Vikings vs. Panthers Key Matchups 

• Kirk Cousins vs. Jaycee Horn: Overall, Cousins is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, but he has struggled to protect the football this season. Furthermore, Horn is one of the best young cornerbacks in the NFL. He will also be tasked with covering Cousins’ top targets, such as Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen.
• Bryce Young (if healthy) vs. Eric Kendricks: Young is a talented young quarterback, but he is still learning the ropes. Kendricks is one of the best linebackers in the NFL. Meanwhile, he will be tasked with leading the Vikings’ defense against Young.
• Vikings Running Game vs. Panthers Run Defense: The Vikings have a strong running game led by Dalvin Cook. The Panthers’ run defense has been solid so far this season, but they will be facing a tough test against the Vikings.

Vikings Running Game vs. Panthers Run Defense

The Vikings have a strong running game led by Dalvin Cook. Cook is one of the best running backs in the NFL, and he is capable of taking over games.

The Panthers’ run defense has been solid so far this season, but they will be facing a tough test against the Vikings. If the Vikings can get Cook going, it could open up the passing game and put the Panthers’ defense on the ropes. However, if the Panthers can stop the run, they could force the Vikings to become one-dimensional. All in all this could make it easier to defend them.

These are just a few of the key matchups that will be worth watching in the Vikings-Panthers game. Overall, the outcome of these matchups could have a big impact on the final score.

Vikings vs. Panthers Sunday Game Prediction

This is a tough game to pick, as both teams are evenly matched. However, I think the Vikings have a slight edge because they have a better offense. I predict the Vikings will win a close game, 24-21.

All odds are courtesy of Action247 Sportsbook. Good luck!!

* All odds provided by Action247 Sportsbook and all odds subject to change.
**All views expressed are my own. My picks are my own and are not a guarantee, bet at your own risk.
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