Before you walk through the State Fair, scan through today's Access Vikings Walkthrough …

WHAT YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED

Eric Kendricks' development at linebacker will be a key for the Vikings, writes Jim Souhan.

Defensive coordinator George Edwards is aiming to have rookie No. 1 choice Trae Waynes be ready to start at cornerback.

There will be a safety investigation at US Bank Stadium in the wake of a construction worker's death there Wednesday.

Gerald Hodges has never played middle linebacker before, but he might start there for the Vikings.

As always, Sid has some inside scoops on the Vikings.

AROUND THE NFC NORTH

Ryan Wood of the Green Bay Press Gazette had a Live Chat where he tackled reader's questions with some inside dope.

Here's a quick look at five key position battles for the Lions.

Tight end Zach Miller is looking to make his mark with the Bears.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

"Our goal is to be the best offense in the league and be a top-ten, top-five offense, whether it is situational football or in yardage, touchdowns, passing touchdowns, rushing touchdowns, so we know that we have a long way to go." — Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater.

TODAY'S SCHEDULE

The Vikings fly to Dallas to prepare for Saturday's 6 p.m. against the Cowboys.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

A pronto pup at the State Fair has about 350 calories, and a footlong hot dog on a bun has around 560. So clearly the footlong is the better choice. You don't want to go hungry out there. And it only takes about two hours to walk off 560 calories. So keep on truckin.'