TONIGHT

* The line: Minnesota by 3 1/2.

* Story line: The Vikings must prove that last week’s 41-17 loss to Tampa Bay was an aberration, while the Packers could salvage some pride in what has been a disappointing season. Green Bay is 5-1 against the Vikings in the last six games at Lambeau Field. Viking safety Orlando Thomas is out because of a shoulder injury. Green Bay running back Dorsey Levens is questionable because of a knee injury.

* Keys to the game: Minnesota receivers Randy Moss and Cris Carter vs. Green Bay cornerbacks Mike McKenzie and Tod McBride. Moss has 20 catches for 487 yards and six touchdowns in four games against the Packers. Blitzing quarterback Daunte Culpepper will be risky for the Packers as it could leave their cornerbacks in single coverage.

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HOW THEY COMPARE MIN GB Points scored 24.6 (8) 21.0 (13) Points allowed 22.2 (T20) 20.9 (T15) Passing Off. 236.3 (7) 230.1 (8) Rushing Off. 143.1 (2) 91.9 (25) Passing Def. 231.0 (26) 199.3 (12) Rushing Def. 108.4 (15) 100.9 (10) Time of Poss. 30:54 (12) 30:32 (15) Turnover Ratio -6 (T23) -11 (28) Red Zone TD% 44.0 (T19) 56.0 (T8)

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The pick: Minnesota. Vikings appear to have too much firepower for an overmatched Packer defense.