Five Questions: Minnesota Vikings vs San Diego Chargers

As the Minnesota Vikings line up against the San Diego Chargers on Sunday, it will represent a very special occasion. They will be opening up their new home at U.S Bank Stadium.

Despite the preseason aura, expect fans the fans excitement to create an electric atmosphere in U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings will look to defend their turf for the first time, and put on a clinic as they begin a new era. With that being said, there are still some uncertainties circulating around Winter Park.

AROUND COVER32

Weekly Game Preview: Minnesota Vikings vs San Diego Chargers

What’s Trending: Fantasy Fallout for Vikings preseason week two

Vike’s Bite: Vikings at Seahawks game recap

Purple Update: Five questions for Vikings vs Chargers preseason matchup

Vikings32 Exclusive: Vikings’ preseason week two reaction

Vikings Today: Know your enemy San Diego Chargers

Below lies a list of the current questions surrounding the Vikings organization as they head into week three of the preseason. Ranging from concerns over Teddy Bridgewater, other injuries, and position battles, Minnesota has endured a bit of chaos lately. Hopefully in due time the question marks will start to disappear.

1. Will Teddy Bridgewater play Sunday?

One cannot be 100 percent certain of Bridgewater’s status for Sunday. It is after all, only the preseason. It depends on what risk Mike Zimmer and the Vikings want to put their quarterback and the face of the franchise under.

However, when questioned by the media yesterday about whether he would suit up, Bridgewater replied, “Of course.” Bridgewater represents the future of the franchise. By nature, he wants to be out there helping his teammates.

This story has already been made into a much bigger deal than the true reality of the situation. Bridgewater should and will be fine. There is no seriousness to his “supposed” shoulder soreness. In the end, Zimmer will make the decision and that will be the end of it. Fans will have to trust his judgement and take it from there.

2. Matt Kalil Injury serous?

The last thing the Vikings want is to lose another offensive lineman. As the weakest unit from a year ago, Minnesota needs all their bodies to stay healthy. Bridgewater’s blindside is perhaps the most important and vulnerable area that needs to be protected. If Kalil were to be gone, the Vikings would be in a world of hurt.

Kalil went down during Tuesday’s practice with an apparent leg injury. There is good news, however. Although limited, the Vikings’ left tackle returned to practice yesterday. Much to the happiness of the fans, Zimmer was quoted on Kalil’s health, “I’m not concerned, He’s fine.”

There is reasonable doubt that Kalil might not play again in the preseason. But, there is no reason to worry about his status for week one at Tennessee.

3. Who will be Harrison’s Smith partner in crime?

It is not clear if there is one safety emerging above everyone else to win the job. The Vikings have a lengthy list of options in which to choose from. Who will start opposite Harrison Smith come week one?

Andrew Sendejo is an excellent run defender, but needs improvement in pass coverage. He serves as the safest option to this point, but often overextends himself going for the big play.

Antone Exum is the athletically gifted one. He just needs more development and consistency to become more rounded.

Anthony Harris filled in well last season when his number was called. His talent may not always top the competition, but his work ethic and fundamentals will.

Jayron Kearse is the wildcard. The rookie seventh-round-pick has dominant athletic traits but comes into the NFL very raw. With that being said, he could thrive under Zimmer’s guidance and earn some extended playing time in 2016.

4. Adam Thielen to earn more first-string reps?

If there has been a player performing beyond expectations, it has been Adam Thielen. His routes are crisp, he finds separation well, makes tough catches in traffic, and has been one of the Vikings’ best receivers in preseason. He’s worked his way into his current position and there is no reason to doubt his abilities now.

Minnesota has a nice group of young playmakers on the outside. Stefon Diggs, Charles Johnson and Laquon Treadwell seem to steal the headlines but Thielen could potentially have a great impact for the Vikings offensively as well.

5. What to expect out of the Vikings performance Sunday?

Expect big. It doesn’t need to be flashy but the Vikings need to make a statement. Week three of the preseason tends to serve as the dress rehearsal for the regular season.

The Vikings should attack offensively and score some points on a vulnerable San Diego defense. Minnesota’s first stringers should put on a good performance and give fans plenty of assurance heading into week one.

Wrap up

The greatest concern for Minnesota right now is the health of the roster. Eric Kendricks and Sharrif Floyd have missed significant time lately, but they are expected to be ready come time for the regular season. Xavier Rhodes has also been hampered by a hamstring injury, but it has not been seen as too serious. Rhodes is expected to be back soon as well.

If the Vikings can stay healthy, they are looking at what could be a memorable season. Playing in their new palace, U.S. Bank Stadium, while getting into the playoffs and perhaps earning a Super Bowl bid, is not out of the question for the Vikings. It is all out there for Minnesota and within reach. They just have to take it. The Vikings have to continue to put their hard hats on and go to work each day; the rest will follow.

Austin Erwin writes for cover32 and covers the Minnesota Vikings. He can be followed on Twitter @austin_erwin. Like and follow vikings32 on Facebook and Twitter.

The post Five Questions: Minnesota Vikings vs San Diego Chargers appeared first on Cover32.