I believe the stats will tell us what will happen on Sunday.

Here are the Vikings pass defense stats through the first six games:

                                                               Ranking

  • Points per game:           20.2         15th
  • Passing yards allowed:  1,490         7th
  • Yards per completion:      7.8         26th
  • Yards per game:          248.3         24th
  • First-down percentage:  36.1         24th
  • Plays of 20+ yards:          24         T-30th (with Cleveland)
  • Opponent passer rating: 91.0         23rd
  • Touchdowns against:         9         T-22nd (with five others)

The Steelers will have the pass when and where they want it.

A major blow to the Vikings secondary will be the likely absence of Antoine Winfield. I say pass first to set up the beautiful long runs of Mendy and Parker.