Three intriguing questions ahead of the Vikings vs. Texans game

Can the Vikings continue their winning football in Week 3? Here are three interesting questions ahead of this weekend’s Vikings-Texans game.

3) Will the Vikings defense stop Stroud?

This will be the first time the Vikings will face second-year quarterback CJ Stroud. The former Ohio State Buckeye won Rookie of the Year, Offensive Rookie of the Year and was named to the Pro Bowl last season.

Stroud has turned the Texans organization around and fans have high hopes for this season. So far, so good for Houston, which started the season 2-0 with wins over the Indianapolis Colts and Chicago Bears.

On the other hand, Minnesota’s defense has been excellent. While Brian Flores’ group gave up 399 yards last week against the 49ers, holding San Francisco to 17 points is a significant feat for a defense that has struggled in recent years.

If Minnesota can limit Stroud and the Texans’ offense on Sunday, this unit should be considered one of the best in the NFL.

2) Can Sam Darnold continue to play at an elite level?

Sam Darnold has been a pleasant surprise for Vikings fans. The former first-round draft pick is playing the best football of his career under head coach Kevin O’Connell. Darnold has completed 72 percent of his passes for 476 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions this season.

One play in particular was key in Minnesota’s victory last weekend. The Vikings were facing a third down in the fourth quarter without receivers Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and tight end TJ Hockenson. Darnold threw a perfect ball to Jalen Nailor to extend the streak.

Darnold is playing like a top-tier NFL quarterback. Another good performance from the quarterback and the Vikings could have their 10th 3-0 start in franchise history.

1) Will Justin Jefferson play?

There’s no doubt that Justin Jefferson is the most important player on the Vikings roster. The three-time Pro Bowler has eight receptions for 192 yards and two touchdowns in the first two games of the season. One of those scores came on a 97-yard reception in the second quarter of the game against the 49ers.

Jefferson left the game in the second half with a leg injury, but the team immediately let everyone know the injury was not serious. Jefferson was in attendance for the Vikings’ visit on Wednesday, and ESPN’s Adam Schefter believes he is “on track” to play in Week 3.

Final Thoughts on Vikings vs. Texans

The Minnesota Vikings are a better team than anyone thought they would be heading into the season. They’re the only team in the NFC North with a 2-0 record, and things are looking promising. For Houston, they’re hoping Danielle Hunter and Stefon Diggs have big games against their former team.

The Vikings are 1.5-point underdogs this weekend and are +115 on the money line at press time. The game total is set at 46.0.