A huge key for the Vikings’ defense in Sunday’s wild card game against the Saints will be to slow down Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas.
Good luck.
It’s something that the NFL has been trying to figure out all season long.
Thomas finished the 2019 season with a league-leading 149 catches for 1,725 yards and nine touchdowns. Thomas had 10 100-yard games on the season and nine with 10 or more catches.
This is problematic for the Vikings considering their struggles defending the pass this season.
The Vikings rank 23rd against the pass this season despite excellent play from safeties Harrison Smith and Anthony Harris.
Who will the Vikings have matched up on Thomas? That’s the question. Xavier Rhodes had his worst season as a pro in 2019 and likely isn’t quick enough to keep up with Thomas. That leaves Trae Waynes or Mike Hughes with the responsibility. While both are fine, neither are lockdown cornerbacks.
It could be a very long day for Minnesota’s secondary if Drew Brees and Thomas start clicking. History says they will.
