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5 players to watch for the Vikings vs. the Jets in Week 5

The Minnesota Vikings fly across the proverbial pond to take on the New York Jets in a game full of storylines that can only be handled at Tottenham Hotsput Stadium. From Aaron Rodgers facing the Vikings again to Sam Darnold facing his former team for the second time.

The Jets enter the game with a lot of extra pressure after losing to the Denver Broncos. This loss allowed the Broncos to put pressure on Rodgers and the Jets offense. They committed multiple penalties and, even with the All-Pro quarterback in the lineup, have the team looking more lost than ever.

Either way, the Vikings face a tough duel. At a crucial position, the team isn't sure what to expect from the Jets. They can only rely on themselves, but five Vikings will have to step up on Sunday.

Oct 2, 2022; London, United Kingdom; Minnesota Vikings tackle Blake Brandel (64) during the NFL International Series game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter van den Berg-USA TODAY Sports

The Jets' defense has struggled to find consistency this year, but their All-Pro defensive tackle Quinnen Williams remains a problem. The interior of the Vikings offensive line has been outstanding this year, with Blake Brandel leading the way. He will need another strong performance against the Jets and Williams if they want to maximize their chances of winning.

September 8, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jonathan Greenard (58) sacks New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory attribution: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

With four sacks in four games, Jonathan Greenard proved his worth early in the season after signing with the team this offseason. The Broncos have shown that this Jets offensive line is vulnerable to pressure against the Broncos, and they don't have the pass rush talent that the Vikings have. Look for Greenard to add more sacks to his season total on Sunday.

Photo credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

Harrison Smith has long been a thorn in Aaron Rodgers' side. He's dealt with it so many times over the course of his career that he's been able to recognize its little tendencies. Smith and the entire secondary have been devilishly good this year, but this will be a big test against someone familiar with their tricks.

September 22, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud (7) is sacked by Minnesota Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (43) in the second quarter at US Bank Stadium. Mandatory attribution: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Andrew Van Ginkel was one of the greatest free players regardless of the team. He has wreaked havoc on defense, finding the quarterback and the ball in almost every game this year. Van Ginkel will have plenty of opportunities to play in different aspects alongside Jonathan Greenard.

August 10, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws a pass while running back Ty Chandler (32) blocks during the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at US Bank Stadium. Mandatory attribution: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Did you think we wouldn't mention the revenge game outside of the beginning of this article? Darnold rushed for 279 yards and a touchdown in his first game against the Jets as a member of the Panthers. With better weapons around him and Kevin O'Connell and Wes Phillips planning the game for him, we can expect to see that and more against the Jets this time around.

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