The Tampa Tribune
Published: November 16, 2008
The Bucs Will Win If
They can build a two-score lead. The
Bucs are going to have a hard time stopping
RB Adrian Peterson, but they can limit Peterson's effectiveness and put the game on QB
Gus Frerotte's shoulders if they can build a two-score lead at some point. The
Vikings offense is strong but if forced to throw, Frerotte could make the kinds of mistakes that will lead to turnovers, and that will give the
Bucs the edge they need to win their third straight against NFC North opponents.
The Vikings Will Win If
They can beat the
Bucs secondary for big plays.
RB Adrian Peterson will get his share of yards. Even on a
bad day he usually finds a way to get 100 or more. The key to Minnesota's success is complementing that. If the
Vikings can do that with an effective
passing game they'll move the ball efficiently and produce enough scoring chances to keep the
Bucs on the ropes. If the
Bucs are forced to play catch-up at any point their chances of winning this game will be greatly diminished, because the
Vikings have a defense strong enough to shut them down.