Vikings vs. Seahawks: What to Watch for in Preseason Game Two

  |  
Aug 17, 2019
the future of the Minnesota Vikings
Image courtesy of Vikings.com

Last weekend, the Minnesota Vikings successfully beat the New Orleans Saints in the Big Easy. There were some studs and some duds in the 34-25 victory, so what should fans be watching for in the second preseason game?

Chad Beebe

This player was on my watch-list last week. Despite rave reviews throughout training camp, Beebe didn’t have a single catch against the Saints, and now he really needs to prove himself on Sunday night. Many analysts have him as a lock for making the final roster, but another catchless night could put Beebe’s future in jeopardy.

Kicking and Punting

Rick Spielman stirred the pot this week by trading for special teamer Kaare Vedvik. The Norway native and ex-Baltimore Raven has the ability to punt and kick, a rare talent in today’s NFL. It’s extremely uncommon for a team to rely on one player to do both, but the Vikings may consider that route given the mediocre performances of kicker Dan Bailey and punter Matt Wile during camp. It would be nice to save a roster spot, but the move puts the team in a tough spot if that player is injured. Keep in mind, Bailey and Wile are still playing in purple, so this situation hasn’t been sorted out yet. One thing is for sure: at least one player will soon be sent packing.

Seahawks Preview

It’s not very often that the Vikings face off with a regular-season foe during the preseason, but it will happen this Sunday. Minnesota hasn’t defeated Seattle in several years, so they will likely use this game to prep for the real dance that awaits in the regular season. This is also the first home game of the year, and it’s a great chance to unleash pent-up Vikings fandom. Tickets start at only $20, so make it to the ‘Bank’ if you can.

Olabisi Johnson

After being taken late in this year’s draft, Bisi Johnson has had a somewhat quiet training camp. Like many NFL hopefuls, he turned some heads during his first preseason game with good routes and a touchdown catch. Since then, he’s looked good in practice and there’s reason to believe he can play well again this Sunday. With players like Chad Beebe, Laquon Treadwell, and Jordan Taylor vying for limited roster spots, he’ll need another solid showing to have a chance at making the roster.

Follow Reid Johnson on Twitter, Instagram, or check out his personal Vikings blog, Purple Reign News, for more Minnesota Vikings content.