Minnesota Vikings: 5 players who must step up down the stretch

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Sep 28, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes (29) breaks up a pass intended for Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) during the third quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Falcons 41-28. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

2. Xavier Rhodes

Why pick on Xavier Rhodes after the solid game he had guarding Julio Jones in Atlanta?

It was a good game against Jones, but Rhodes has had a couple other good games this year as well, including a very good one against Calvin Johnson.

But then there have been the other not-so-good games where Rhodes has been called for too many penalties.

It isn’t enough for Rhodes to rise to the occasion during certain games where he happens to be matched-up on a given player.

Rhodes’ overall season has been disappointing because he has not been consistently good in all situations.

Mike Zimmer should be able to line up Rhodes wherever/however he wants and be confident that Rhodes will give a solid performance.

Next: Not really a rookie anymore