Oakland Raiders vs. Minnesota Vikings: 5 Halftime Adjustments Raiders Must Make

Today, your first-place Oakland Raiders take on the Vikings in the Metrodome. Yes, the first-place Raiders. They have a chance to extend that AFC West lead or at least stay on top with a win.

The Vikings are out of the playoff picture but are playing for pride. They want to defend their turf. Plus, Jared Allen wouldn't mind padding his sack statistics, Adrian Peterson wouldn't mind racking up the rushing yards and Christian Ponder could use a little practice.

Either way, both teams badly want to win. So far, it's looking like the game will come down to who has the more effective running game. Ponder and Oakland QB Carson Palmer have looked good, but it's the running backs doing the damage.

Here are five big adjustments the Raiders can make at halftime to assure a big road win:

 

1. Don't Get Caught Off Guard

Guess who's responsible for the Vikings' first touchdown? Adrian Peterson. Guess who is on the sidelines getting his ankle looked at right now? Adrian Peterson. The guy is the most impressive, physically-imposing rusher in the NFL. And now the Raiders seem to have caught a break.

The Vikes need to find someone to step up and at least semi-fill that void at running back until Peterson is back. So, the Raiders need to make sure to not be content with not having to worry about AP. You don't want to be caught by surprise by a guy coming off the bench and having a career game.

 

2. Pound the Ball



On the flip side, Michael Bush and this Raider rushing attack is pretty ridiculous. Just because Darren McFadden is out doesn't mean Oakland can't run. Bush has been one of the best number two's in the NFL this season and has already done some damage today.

The Raiders need to mix up the play call and keep pounding the running game. Bush likes to hit holes in the middle and rumble through, whereas the other guys like to bust it o...

About the Author