Vikings' T.J. Hockenson expected to play against Saints
The Minnesota Vikings have battled their way to a 5-4 record despite a ton of adversity through the first nine weeks of the season and they received a big reprieve early Sunday morning when it was revealed that star tight end, T.J. Hockenson, is expected to play against the New Orleans Saints, who are also […]
The Minnesota Vikings have battled their way to a 5-4 record despite a ton of adversity through the first nine weeks of the season and they received a big reprieve early Sunday morning when it was revealed that star tight end, T.J. Hockenson, is expected to play against the New Orleans Saints, who are also 5-4.
Hockenson injured his ribs during the team's sensational Week 9 win over the Atlanta Falcons, but should be able to play through the pain. He was a limited practice participant all week long and was officially listed as questionable on Friday's final injury report.
On the other hand, it's still unclear as to whether or not K.J. Osborn will play. He managed to pass the NFL's concussion protocol, but it's ultimately up to the Vikings when it comes to his availability.
T.J. Hockenson has a chance to make some plays against the Saints
The Saints don't give up a ton of catches and yards to tight ends. Per The Football Database, opposing tight ends average 3.8 receptions for 36.9 receiving yards on six targets per game. But, the Saints give up an average of 0.6 touchdowns per game to the position, which is tied with four other teams for the highest rate in the NFL.
So if Josh Dobbs can move the Vikings into the red zone, Hockenson has a great chance to make some big plays against this Saints defense. The Pro Bowler has five receptions for 27-yards inside the opposing 20, but he has three receiving touchdowns in the red area, which is tied for 14th in the NFL. All three touchdowns have come inside the 10, as well, which is good for a fifth-place tie.
It won't be just the red zone where Hockenson can make plays, though. The athletic TE is a matchup nightmare that can line up anywhere across the offense. Either way, he'll be a big factor in this game.
