It’s not hyperbole to say everything the Vikings have done throughout training camp has been with this week’s joint practices against the New England Patriots in mind. That’s how much head coach Kevin O’Connell values the work that will get done at TCO Performance Center on Wednesday and Thursday.

Whether it’s staying local and hosting the Tennessee Titans, or hopping on a plane to practice against the Cleveland Browns, joint practices have been a constant for the Vikings ever since O’Connell took over, as it allows high intensity in a controlled environment.

The Vikings and Patriots will then play an exhibition game Saturday at U.S. Bank Stadium. Kickoff is set for noon.

Here are five storylines to keep an eye on during this week’s joint practices:

Although the Vikings are wholly inve

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