Minnesota Vikings vs Tennessee Titans: Preseason game review
By Adam Carlson
Sep 3, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) prior to the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
The Bad
- Opening drive defense. Marcus Mariota had it too easy, as a crossing route led to an easy passing touchdown when the defense had a combination of poor positioning and bad angles. It’s a great start for the rookie, but not very impressive for this young Minnesota Viking defense.
- Blair Walsh is at it again. Seriously, man. He missed a 48 yard field goal, which is hardly a gimme, but those are the kind of kicks that he needs to make in order to get some confidence going into the 2015 regular season. This kind of accuracy just cannot continue. (1 for 2 on field goals, 2/2 XP, solid kickoffs)
- What the heck, Cordarrelle Patterson? When you’re playing against the second or third string, you’re supposed to shine. Instead, Patterson seemed to be playing at the same level as the reserves, which is something that is totally unacceptable at the NFL level. (1 catch for 7 yards on 3 targets)
- Marcus Sherels having a huge struggling day. He wasn’t good in coverage and muffed a punt. Keeping him on as a specialist while he develops as a cornerback is hard when he’s not as valuable in the return game following an impressive effort from rookie Stefon Diggs. (1 fumble lost, 2 tackles)
- Proof that Babatunde Aiyegbusi isn’t ready. He seems like a great guy. He’s got the size and the power, but the NFL is a tough beast. He got dominated by third and 4th string defensive players and showed that he’s got a lot of work to go before he can be a contributor for this team. Most people knew this already, but this game confirmed it.
Next: The Confusing