After a pitiful 0-2 beginning to the preseason, the Minnesota Vikings find themselves facing another tough opponent on the road, the Denver Broncos. Preseason games can go in any direction; however, with the Vikings continuing to rest many of their starters, this matchup could prove difficult.
The Broncos roster has taken a shift, with the new presence of elite quarterback Russell Wilson. Even more so, the Denver coaching staff looks quite different in 2022. Former Packers OC Nathaniel Hackett, who has torn apart the Vikings defense numerous times, has now become the head coach of the Broncos. With his familiarity of Za’darius Smith, Danielle Hunter, Eric Kendricks, Harrison Smith, and others, the Broncos will have an advantage on how to attack the Vikings offensively.
Additionally, with the Vikings offensive leaders such as Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook, and Justin Jefferson likely resting this weekend, the backups will look to put all of the points on the board. Thus far, unfortunately, the Vikings depth has proven to be unremarkable, especially at the quarterback position. While the trade for Nick Mullens provides some more competition for QB2 in the future, Mullens’ status for the matchup against the Broncos is in the air. Thus, with Kellen Mond and Sean Mannion leading the Vikings offense, there will likely be a lack of spark in the passing game.
All in all, traveling to Denver to face a talented Broncos team that will likely play starters for longer periods of time, will put Minnesota in a difficult position.
I expect the Broncos to come out victorious, 30-13. 
