There are certain days that football fans want for with baited breath. One of those days came today when the NFL preseason schedule was released. The Minnesota Vikings preseason schedule sees the team playing three AFC opponents out of the four games. Here is a look at each game on the Vikings’ preseason slate with game times and dates for the first three weeks to be announced. The fourth preseason game is slated for Aug. 28 for every NFL team. The regular season schedule is scheduled to be announced in the next couple weeks.
Week 1: Oakland Raiders- The first game at TCF Bank Stadium comes with this one against the Raiders, who have Matt Schaub at quarterback right now but will likely be featuring a new quarterback to open the preseason. It also could be the debut of a rookie quarterback for the Vikings as well. That will be something that could lead to this game having more meaning than most to begin the preseason.
Week 2: Arizona Cardinals- The second straight home game for the Vikings brings the Cardinals to town. Carson Palmer is still the quarterback in Arizona and has a new starting running back in Andre Ellington. Fans will likely get to see both of those players for a half along with Larry Fitzgerald. It’s going to be another month between home games for the Vikings though with this schedule and both home games right away.
Week 3: at Kansas City Chiefs- The game where the starters play the most is on the road at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs made the playoffs last season but blew a big lead to the Colts. This will be the biggest test for new coach Mike Zimmer and this team to see where the team is at going into the regular season. Kansas City is a very talented team that will give the Vikings a great challenge even in the preseason.
August 28: at Tennessee Titans- The starters aren’t going to play much here but those final spots on the 53-man roster will be decided because of play in this game. Zimmer can see what kind of special teams and backup players he will have on the Opening Day roster because players like Adrian Peterson aren’t going to play more than a couple series probably. The wait will then be on for Sept. 7 and the season opener.