San Francisco at Minnesota

Minnesota plays hard for no-nonsense coach Mike Zimmer, even in August. They've allowed 30 total points in two games, on a 9-2 SU, 8-3 ATS preseason run. The Vikings were hit hard by injuries on the offensive line last year, so they've bulked up with depth on the O-line and the backfield for this season to have better balance. After losing both starting tackles for the year by Week 3 and seeing each of the interior offensive linemen go down at different times during the 2016 season, the Vikings' depth looks much improved. That depth was on display Friday in Seattle as neither starting lineman on the left side, tackle Riley Reiff and guard Alex Boone, suited up, which forced the Vikings to start Rashod Hill and Nick Easton. The makeshift first-team line did not give up a sack and sprung running back Dalvin Cook for 40 yards on just seven carries. A battle is still waging in camp over the center position. Easton and third-round pick Pat Elflein have each started one preseason game and have mixed in at practice, spending some time at guard. QB Sam Bradford was given more time to throw against Seattle last week, which allowed him to push the ball downfield for several explosive plays, including a 39-yard pass to speedy WR Stefon Diggs, while RB Cook averaged 5.7 yards per carry. And there are no concerns with a Minnesota defense that is loaded with talent and depth. They are home against the San Francisco squad pretty much rebuilding from scratch under a new coaching staff. The defense has allowed 50 points in two games and the QB rotation is poor with Brian Hoyer, rookie C.J. Beathard and Matt Barkley. They come off a 33-14 loss to Denver. The Niners' starters struggled in Kansas City in Week 1, then in Week 2 the offense had had three turnovers and didn't put any points on the board in its first four possessions. Making matters worse, Denver played without seven of its normal defensive starters -- and it won't get any easier this week. Play the Vikings.