Nov 6, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Golden Tate (15) is tackled by Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr (55) during the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
Nov 6, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford (8) is pressured by Detroit Lions defensive end Devin Taylor (98) during the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
The Good Stuff
A quicker offense. It looks like the Vikings stressed being faster in all phases of the offense. In particular, the internal clock of Sam Bradford seemed to be moving faster and the plays were designed to have earlier dump-off options in case of pressure. Good stuff!
The crowd was really loud! Even through the TV, it was easy to hear the fans getting insanely loud during the game, particularly on third downs with the Lions on offense. They did a fantastic job and should continue to do so in order to build home field advantage at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Better offensive line protection. The Lions are no slouch when it comes to getting pressure on quarterbacks. Still, with the faster tempo, some chipping, and possibly some chips on their shoulders, the offensive line look to be a somewhat revitalized unit.
Getting Treadwell involved. For a rookie wide receiver, there should be a shorter learning curve, especially for a guy who was a first round pick who has the potential to be a game-changer. But everyone starts somewhere, and his first NFL catch is a good milestone.
Adam Thielen is a machine. What can’t this kid do? He’s amazing on special teams. He’s a been a very good wide receiver. He makes MASSIVE plays when needed. He’s the kind of guy you wish your favorite team had a roster full of.
