Now at the halfway point of the NFL season, the Minnesota Vikings (5-3) will look to pull out a pivotal victory against the underestimated Seattle Seahawks (4-4) at CenturyLink Field in Week 9. A win for the Vikings is a must as they look to stay within reach of a playoff spot heading into a four-game stretch against divisional rivals.

If the Seahawks were to pull an upset, Minnesota would have a steeper hill to climb toward a postseason berth amid the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers in the standings. Despite sitting at an even .500, Seattle still remains undefeated on their home turf (3-0) while only sporting a dismal 1-4 road record.

The outcome of Sunday's game could heavily lie on the shoulders of the NFL's two leading rushers in Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch. While both of the teams' defenses have combated the run quite effectively this season, the Seahawks' defenders have fared better. Minnesota has struggled in their last two matchups letting up back-to-back 100-yard rushing games.

Assuming both RB's Peterson and Lynch perform up to par, quarterbacks Christian Ponder of the Vikings and rookie Russell Wilson of the Seahawks' performances could become more of a factor in the outcome of Sunday's showdown.

Seattle will be without WR Braylon Edwards, DT Jason Jones and LG James Carpenter for the matchup. However, the team is expected to have WR Doug Baldwin back from an ankle injury. For the Vikings, strong safety Mistral Raymond is listed as questionable. Minnesota is optimistic for a Raymond return. However, if he can't play Jamarca Sanford would serve as his replacement.

CLICK HERE to watch the Minnesota Vikings go up against the Seattle Seahawks via free live stream. Coverage of the game will begin at 3:05 p.m. CT on Nov. 4.

Tags
NFL Network