Nov 20, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) is hit by Minnesota Vikings defensive end Brian Robison (96) and defensive end Danielle Hunter (99) during the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Cardinals 30-24. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
Nov 20, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) rushes against Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen (97) in the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports /
The bad things from week 11
Bad penalties. An illegal hands to the face call and a big defensive holding spot were big early on, taking a score off the board and giving up a first down when it looked like Arizona would need to punt. Sprinkle in an illegal contact call on Trae Waynes and other calls, and it’s a mess.
Short yardage situations on defense. The Vikings defensive line has been really struggling in stopping the run. This is especially true in situations where only a few yards is needed, as the line seems to be pushed backwards far more than they create penetration to get a loss.
First half tackling. There were several instances in the first half where tackling was sloppy. While it was cleaned up in the second half, the amount of yardage allowed after first contact seemed to be far too much for a defense that should be much more disciplined.
Pass protection. I want to point the finger right at tight end Kyle Rudolph, but there are more players who had a very rough game. TJ Clemmings gave up pressures as well, but as the game went on, things got worse for quarterback Sam Bradford in the pocket.
David Johnson tore up the defense. 160 all-purpose yards and two scores is a nice outing for a running back. The Vikings defense gave up 4.7 yards per carry and 8.1 yards per catch to the dynamic player who was a thorn in Minnesota’s side all game long.
