The Kevin O'Connell era of the Vikings officially begins Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium against the Packers. From most optimistic to most pessimistic, here's what Star Tribune staff writers and columnists think will happen in this unpredictable Vikings season.
La Velle E. Neal III
10-7. Go ahead, focus on the Vikings offense and all the points it could score under new coach Kevin O'Connell. I prefer to focus on a defense that should be far from toothless under Ed Donatell's direction. Harrison Phillips and Dalvin Tomlinson will be game wreckers up front, allowing Eric Kendricks and Jordan Hicks to make plays.