Basics
Kickoff: 1 p.m. EST, U.S. Bank Stadium
TV: WBAL Channel 11 (Baltimore), WJLA Channel 7 (Washington) and more. Ravens crew: Kyle Youmans (play-by-play), Rod Woodson (analyst), Evan Washburn (sideline)
Radio: WBAL 1090 AM/101.5 FM, 98 Rock (97.9)
History
The teams have only met twice during the preseason, with the Vikings winning both times. The last Ravens-Vikings preseason game was in 2008. The Ravens beat the Vikings, 27-19, at U.S. Bank Stadium during last year's regular season.
Key Storylines
Who will gain the upper hand in the center competition following Danny Pinter's injury?
Jovaughn Gwyn and Ethan Pocic are the frontrunners to be the starting center Week 1, now that Pinter will miss extended time following his reported knee injury in Wednesday's joint practice. Corey Bullock will also get reps at center against Minnesota. The regular-season opener against the Indianapolis Colts is about three weeks away. The Ravens want to decide on a starting center soon, and the tape from this game will help the coaching staff make its choice.
Will the rookies continue their stellar play?
A host of draft picks stood out in the preseason opener, including wide receivers Ja'Kobi Lane and Elijah Sarratt, tight end Matt Hibner, guard Vega Ioane, and cornerback Chandler Rivers. This is another opportunity for rookies to gain game experience and earn the trust of the coaching staff prior to Week 1.
How will second-year kicker Tyler Loop perform?
Loop's kicking is under the microscope after he missed a 49-yard attempt to open the preseason. Loop has enjoyed excellent days in practice, including Thursday, when he went 6-for-6. Carrying that consistency from the practice field to the game is the best way for Loop to end speculation about the Ravens bringing in another kicker to provide competition.
Players to Watch
TE Matt Hibner
Hibner enjoyed an excellent preseason opener with five catches for 61 yards. Not only did he run a variety of routes effectively, but Hibner also contributed on special teams. Hibner and rookie tight end Josh Cuevas are likely to see plenty of action in Minnesota as they compete to earn playing time in the tight end rotation.
RB Adam Randall
Randall was the busiest running back in Week 1 of the preseason (12 carries, 46 yards, one touchdown) and the converted wide receiver is also a pass catching threat. The No. 3 running back spot behind Derrick Henry and Justice Hill appears up for grabs, and this game gives Randall another chance to state his case.,
CB Chandler Rivers
Plenty of Ravens cornerbacks are playing well, including Rivers, who had a pass breakup and two tackles during his preseason debut. Cornerback depth is always important, and Rivers wants to show he's ready to contribute as a rookie if the Ravens need him.
