Colts vs. Vikings where to watch: NFL kickoff time, TV channel, live stream, odds, picks for the “SNF” showdown

The Minnesota Vikings and Indianapolis Colts will face off in prime time on Sunday, pitting themselves against not just each other but the potential challenges of mixed lineups. Of course, the Colts made a dramatic change at quarterback earlier this week, using second-year starter Anthony Richardson in place of backup Joe Flacco. Minnesota, meanwhile, has a revamped offensive line after trading for Cam Robinson, an emergency replacement for star left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who was sidelined with a knee injury in Week 8.

The Vikings need Robinson and the rest of their front line to keep Sam Darnold upright, especially if Brian Flores' defense continues to struggle to defend the big play through the air. The Colts, on the other hand, are just looking for stability in the 39-year-old Flacco, who lacks Richardson's physical ability but has proven to be a much more consistent passer this season. And it will all take place under the bright lights of “Sunday Night Football,” with both teams battling to keep pace with crowded divisions.

How can you get involved? Which players could be X-factors? And who is actually prepared for victory? Here is our preview and sports betting prediction for the cross-conference clash:

Colts at Vikings where to watch

Date: Sunday November 3rd | Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
Location: US Bank Stadium (Minneapolis)
TV: NBC | Electricity: fubo (try for free)
Consequences: CBS Sports App
Opportunities: Vikings -5.5 | O/U 46.5 (FanDuel Sportsbook)

Important encounters

• Colts WR Alec Pierce vs. Vikings CB Shaquill Griffin: Despite lacking Richardson's weaponry, Pierce has been one of the NFL's most underrated deep threats this year, averaging an astounding 24 yards per catch. Griffin, on the other hand, is part of an experienced but aging Vikings cornerback group that struggles to prevent big plays when the front line fails to finish.
• Vikings TE TJ Hockenson vs. Colts CB Kenny Moore II: Sam Darnold is expected to have an additional weapon this week as Hockenson is on track to make his debut in 2024, about 10 months after tearing his ACL. While his workload may be lower than usual, he could be an important over-the-middle option on critical downs. Moore, meanwhile, has remained one of the NFL's best cover men in the slot.
• Colts OT Matt Goncalves vs. Vikings OLB Andrew Van Ginkel: Regular left tackle Bernhard Raimann did well in pass protection for Indy, but he is in the concussion protocol, putting his availability in question. Gonclaves, a third-round rookie, could therefore be tasked with protecting Flacco. Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard combined for 10 sacks as Flores' top rushers.

Burning questions

• Colts: Can Joe Flacco take advantage of the Vikings' secondary? Indy will lose a dynamic threat on the floor with Richardson on the bench. In theory, however, the Colts will also get a more reliable aerial attack as Flacco has controlled the ball well for them this year. With skilled passers like Jared Goff and Matthew Stafford tearing Minnesota apart in recent weeks, the seasoned veteran should have an opportunity to push the ball down the field.
• Vikings: Can Brian Flores' front line destroy the pocket? If the secondary can't keep up, the solution for Minnesota could well be more heat up front. The Vikings already rank in the top 10 in quarterback pressure rate, but against a more immobile signal-caller like Flacco, influencing the pocket and containing the run will be especially important. You'll want him to check it as often as possible and leave the rest of Flores' defense to its own devices.

forecast

It's understandable why the Colts are turning to Flacco because they're desperate to salvage their playoff hopes in the midst of a very manageable AFC South. He was clearly the better quarterback this year. And he'll have a real chance to validate the decision against this Minnesota defense that gives up more yardage through the air than all but two teams. However, we cannot ignore the Colts' own weaknesses on that side of the ball; Indianapolis ranks 28th in total defense and 30th against the run. That bodes extremely well for Kevin O'Connell's offense, which can lean on Aaron Jones, keep Sam Darnold comfortable, and distribute the ball to playmakers like Justin Jefferson. This seems like the right place for the Vikes.

Choose: Vikings 24, Colts 21