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Access Vikings morning walkthrough: Norv has company in Wade Phillips, Peyton can still play and more

There will be a lot of talk about Bridgewater versus Manning this week. But this game will feature two of the league's best defenses.

By Matt Vensel

September 30, 2015 at 12:32PM

Every weekday, we walk you through what's going on with the Vikings.

WHAT YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED

— Offensive coordinator Norv Turner isn't the only former NFL head coach thriving in a reduced role. Broncos defensive coordinator Wade Phillips has helped turn the Denver D into one of the league's best units so far.

— My colleague Mark Craig stepped into the film room to give us an early look at the Broncos. By the way, he thinks Peyton Manning can still play.

— The Vikings are on the rise in Mark's Week 4 NFL power rankings.

— In this week's Access Vikings podcast, we were joined by columnist Chip Scoggins, discussed the team's new identity and whether their current level of play is sustainable, and previewed the showdown with the Broncos.

BEHIND ENEMY LINES

— Denver coach Gary Kubiak wants starting back C.J. Anderson to show he can stay on the field after ankle, toe and head injuries this season.

— The Broncos are relying on their stout defense to carry the team until Manning and the offense can get acclimated to Kubiak's scheme.

— Broncos wide receiver Cody Latimer, a second-round pick a year ago, hasn't lived up to expectations and therefore has had a minimal role.

TODAY'S VIKINGS SCHEDULE

The Vikings are back in the building today and starting to practice for the Broncos. They will take the field at 1 p.m. Beforehand, coach Mike Zimmer and quarterback Teddy Bridgewater will speak with reporters.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

I'm sure there will be a lot of talk about Bridgewater versus Manning this week. But this game will feature two of the league's best defenses. The Broncos, who lead the league in total defense, have allowed 200 fewer yards than the Vikings, who are in the middle of the pack there. But both the Broncos and Vikings rank in the top five in scoring defense and in the top six in takeaways. Denver is tied for third in the league in sacks. The Vikings aren't in the top 10 there, but they are tied for 12th. So this could be a low-scoring game. Vegas certainly thinks so. The over-under for this one, according to Bovada, is 43 points, one of the lowest totals of the week.