The Minnesota Vikings are set to put their undefeated season on the line on Sunday, when they will host the 3-1 Texans. It's one of the more underrated games of the weekend, but we think this could end up being a lopsided affair. Here are three reasons why the Vikings will beat the Texans:
3) Minnesota's dominant defense
The Vikings defense has easily been the best in the NFL this season. They rank seventh in the league in yards allowed per game (306.0) and second in points allowed per game (12.5), but most impressively, rank second in the league in takeaways with 11. They've returned both a fumble and interception for a touchdown and shut down two of the best offenses (Green Bay, Carolina). It won't be any different with the Texans.
2) Houston's unproven
Despite their 3-1 record, the Texans have not played against the best competition. Their three wins have come against teams that are a combined 4-8 this season, and none of them are over .500. In their biggest game so far, against the Patriots, they were embarrassed on both sides of the ball in a 27-0 loss - which just happens to be the only other road game they've played. With them hitting the road against another undefeated team, Houston is facing another projected loss.
1) Sam Bradford's continued improvement
Bradford has only been with the Vikings for just over a month and has just three starts with the team under his belt, but he has proven to be a real difference maker for this team. He's been efficient, completing 70 percent of his passes for 719 yards and four touchdowns - without turning the ball over - and is still learning the playbook. Bradford will continue to get better every week - which is bad news for a suspect Texans secondary.
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