NFL Record Predictions: Where do the Redskins end up in the pack?
By Ian Cummings
Minnesota Vikings
Kirk Cousins and the Vikings have been subject to nonstop scrutiny ever since Cousins couldn’t get the team to the playoffs in his first year on the job. They paid him a lot of money to leave the Redskins and be the quarterback Case Keenum wasn’t, and while he easily showed such potential, there were hiccups along the way.
That said, Cousins has enough arm talent to make all the throws, and he’s a diligent worker. With his offensive line considerably improved from last season with additions like Garrett Bradbury, Dru Samia, and Josh Kline, and with much of his impressive skill cast the same from 2018, Cousins should have more familiarity and more confidence, as he takes play calls from Kevin Stefanski.
As for the defense, the Vikings still house an imposing unit. The front four boasts two top-tier edge rushers and a solid interior. The linebacking core has versatility and depth. And the secondary is elite at the top, and one of the deepest units in the league. It’s a close race, but I like the Vikings as the most talented team in the NFC North, and Mike Zimmer has been to the playoffs twice before, both after middle-of-the-road seasons. He knows how to adjust, in order to get back.