Oct 25, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jarius Wright (17) attempts a catch against Detroit Lions cornerback Quandre Diggs (28) during the third quarter at Ford Field. Vikings win 28-19. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
The Good
- Adrian Peterson‘s power runs for first downs. Even though the yards per carry won’t be as impressive, picking up those third down and short carries are essential to the Minnesota Vikings offense. It opens things up for play action and helps keep the drive alive. Stats aren’t everything.
- Everson Griffen owning the corner. He was a monster at disrupting things on his side of the field. Griffen controlled the Lions left tackle for most of the game, getting constant pressure and even getting some hits on Matt Stafford, which is important in keeping the veteran quarterback in check.
- Stick with the run. Whether it is McKinnon, Asiata, or Peterson, if you keep pounding the football, good things will happen. That’s exactly what we saw when Adrian Peterson busted a long run in the third quarter that nearly ended up as a touchdown. Minnesota is that physical team that will wear down opponents.
- Hitting and sacking Matt Stafford. It’s hard to win a game when you’re sacked seven times in a game. The Vikings were relentless on their attack of the struggling Lions offensive line, confusing and overpowering them on most occasions. Even without Shariff Floyd, the defense looked stout after the first two drives. Plus, Eric Kendricks looks to be an absolute STUD. The Vikings totaled 13 hits and 7 sacks. WOW.
- Teddy’s best game of his professional career. We didn’t see dangerous throws and poor decisions in this game. In fact, Teddy Bridgewater took smart deep shots and moved the chains. If this is the evolution of Bridgewater at quarterback despite pressure in his face, I’m all in!
- Can you dig it? Stefon Diggs getting his first professional touchdown was amazing. It was also notable that the catch was a very difficult one that required him to stretch out to catch the ball and then quickly secure it as he came to the ground. He has taken a starting job and won’t be giving it back any time soon.
Next: The Bad