EAGAN, MINNESOTA — The undefeated Vikings are heading into an NFC North road test, and Kevin O’Connell says Minnesota will need its strongest performance yet to beat Detroit. The Vikings enter Sunday’s game at Ford Field at 6-0. The Lions are 4-2. Kickoff is scheduled for noon Central on November 1, with FOX carrying the game, including KMSP in the Twin Cities. “We’re going to need to play our best game yet,” O’Connell said during his Wednesday, October 28, news conference. Cashman helps set the defensive standard O’Connell praised linebacker Blake Cashman’s play and his role coordinating the defense. Cashman wears the communication helmet, relaying calls and helping get teammates organized before the snap. The coach said Cashman’s growing recognition reflects what he has been doing on the field, describing him as a major part of Minnesota’s defensive success. Jones and Huber miss Wednesday practice Running back Aaron Jones Sr. and guard Joe Huber did not practice Wednesday because of knee injuries, according to the Vikings’ initial injury report. Right tackle Brian O’Neill was limited with a knee issue. O’Connell described Jones as day-to-day and said Huber was dealing with soreness that the team wanted to monitor. Minnesota planned to give Trevor Keegan and rookie Caleb Tiernan practice repetitions in Huber’s place. Wednesday’s absences do not establish that either player will miss Sunday’s game. The Vikings said game-status designations are scheduled for Friday following additional practices Thursday and Friday. Detroit presents threats on both sides O’Connell singled out Jared Goff’s accuracy and command of Detroit’s offense. The quarterback has a collection of playmakers that includes Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta and Jahmyr Gibbs. The coach emphasized the difficulty of allowing Goff time to identify coverages and distribute the ball. Detroit’s ability to turn ordinary gains into explosive plays is another concern for Minnesota’s defense. On the other side, O’Connell praised safety Brian Branch’s physicality and playmaking. Alongside pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson and linebacker Jack Campbell, Branch gives Detroit players Minnesota must account for at several levels of the defense. Minnesota still looking for offensive growth Despite the perfect record, O’Connell said the Vikings have room to improve. He discussed creating explosive plays, converting third downs, protecting the football and avoiding penalties as the offense continues developing with quarterback Kyler Murray. He also said Minnesota wants to keep finding opportunities for Justin Jefferson, who continues to draw close attention from opposing defenses. Balancing those opportunities with the running game remains part of the offense’s development. Trade deadline also on the horizon O’Connell said he remains in contact with general manager Nolan Teasley about possible ways to improve the roster. The NFL trade deadline is November 10. His comments did not announce a deal or identify a specific target. The Vikings’ immediate focus remains Detroit and the chance to extend their unbeaten start against a division opponent. Image: Minnesota Now matchup graphic. Records and kickoff verified with the Vikings’ official game information. Injury information reflects Wednesday’s report.