The Vikings have never started 0-2 under Mike Zimmer, and their trip to Indianapolis gives them a QB matchup that's more favorable than the ones awaiting them over the next few weeks. But the Colts could have an advantage along both lines of scrimmage that helps them control the game.
THREE BIG STORY LINES
Vikings, Colts try to avoid 0-2
After only the second loss in Mike Zimmer's seven season openers, the Vikings begin a stretch of three games in four weeks away from U.S. Bank Stadium. They'll face a Colts team that lost to Jacksonville a week ago and is in a situation of equal urgency. The NFL has added a seventh playoff team in each conference, but neither team wants to have to rebound from an 0-2 start.
A reunion and a rematch
Philip Rivers has played his entire career in the AFC, but the Vikings will face him for the second time in as many years after he moved from the Chargers to the Colts. When the Vikings faced Rivers in Week 15 last year, they intercepted him three times and forced one fumble, with cornerback Xavier Rhodes on defense. Rhodes and Rivers are now teammates after the Vikings released the cornerback in March.
Elflein's injury changes line again
Right guard Pat Elflein was not on the injury report Wednesday; by Thursday afternoon, a thumb injury drove him to injured reserve. With Elflein out, the Vikings will turn to second-year man Dru Samia at right guard.
TWO KEY MATCHUPS
Vikings defensive line vs. Colts offensive line