Vikings Pass Defense Struggling

Sep 29, 2013; London, UNITED KINGDOM; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery (89) scores a touchdown against Minnesota Vikings defensive back Andrew Sendejo (34) during the NFL International Series game at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Martin-USA TODAY Sports

One thing is certain so far this year, teams are not afraid to pass against the Vikings.  Even though they have 7 interceptions and 9 sacks through the first four weeks, that productivity hasn’t scared away any team from continuing to attack Minnesota through the air.

Here are some staggering statistics so far about the Minnesota Vikings pass defense from nfl.com:

• The Vikings have allowed a league-high 1,304 passing yards to their opponents.   This is an average of 326 yards per game.
• Teams have scored 10 passing touchdowns against the team, which is tied for most in the NFL.
• Opposing quarterbacks have already thrown 187 passes against Minnesota, which is tops in the league.  That is an average of 46.8 attempts per game.
• Those quarterbacks completed 122 of those passes, which again is the most in the NFL.
• Opponents have gotten 70 first downs through the air against the Vikings, second most in the NFL.

Sep 29, 2013; London, UNITED KINGDOM; Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Emmanuel Sanders (88) is defended by Minnesota Vikings cornerback Josh Robinson (21) in the NFL International Series game at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

It is a blessing for the Vikings that they are entering their bye week.  There are multiple defensive backs on the team that are injured and need time to get healthy.  Hopefully, after this bye week, the Vikings will be able to get their best personnel out there to defend against the pass.  Their success the rest of the season will depend on it.