Vikings vs. Packers: Projecting Stats for Adrian Peterson vs. Green Bay

The Minnesota Vikings lost 33-27 in their first meeting against the Green Bay Packers in Week 7, but running back Adrian Peterson exploded for 175 yards on 24 carries. I see tonight's NFC North showdown playing out similarly. 

Minnesota has had ample time to devise a game plan to exploit the Packers' defensive weaknesses. Their 31st-ranked secondary in the league is a bit skewed, with many of their opponents being forced to throw the football after falling behind Aaron Rodgers and Co.

Green Bay can score as quickly as any team in the league, but I still think the Vikings will look to control the time of possession and run Peterson early and often. Why wouldn't they after how well he fared a few weeks ago against this defense?

Christian Ponder should be more poised in the pocket now that he has two starts under his belt, which could lead to some big plays down the field for the Vikings.

Hopefully, Leslie Frazier will realize that, even if his team does fall behind, their best opportunity to creep back into this one and have a chance to upset the defending Super Bowl champs is handing the ball to Peterson.

I'm not advocating a Denver Broncos-esque 35 carries for Peterson tonight, but making Ponder throw the ball too often will result in some game-changing interceptions.

Green Bay's defensive backfield is still one of the most opportunistic units in the NFL. Their 16 interceptions lead the league. Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers is no fool, however. He'll force Ponder to beat him by loading the box on run downs.

So, Peterson won't have 175 yards again, but he'll have another solid evening and keep the Vikings in the game.

Projection: 22 carries, 130 yards and two TDs