Vikings Lead Cowboys 10-6 at the Half

Nov 3, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder (7) is tackled on a scramble by Dallas Cowboys cornerback B.W Webb (20) in the first quarter at AT

Were you expecting the Cowboys to come out and shred the Vikings’ defense? I think everyone was. But so far it hasn’t happened thanks to the Vikings’ pass rush. The front four has been all over Tony Romo so far today, sacking him several times and preventing Dallas from getting their passing game going.

The defense isn’t the only story for the Vikes so far today. The offense has also been more effective than usual thanks in part to Bill Musgrave’s decision to employ the hurry-up early in the game. Christian Ponder has expressed his desire to play more no-huddle, where he feels more comfortable because he “doesn’t have to think.” Ponder responded by playing his most efficient ball of the season so far.

The Vikings’ passing game hasn’t been spectacular but it has been effective, except in the red zone. The Vikes’ one touchdown came on a third down run by Christian Ponder with the Cowboys doubling up the Vikes’ only true red zone weapon, Kyle Rudolph.

It hasn’t exactly been a great game by the Vikings, except for their defensive front, but they have been good enough to get a lead. More points will be needed in the second half however, as I’m certain the Cowboys are not going to just go away. Dallas was held down by Detroit last week as well until both teams exploded offensively in the fourth quarter.

The Vikes are going to have to step it up another notch both defensively and offensively if they want to hold Dallas off in the second half.

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