Minnesota Vikings vs. Arizona Cardinals: Week 11 game review and grades

Nov 20, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Matt Asiata (44) rushes against the Arizona Cardinals in the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 30-24. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Matt Asiata (44) rushes against the Arizona Cardinals in the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 30-24. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
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Nov 20, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jerick McKinnon (21) is tackled by Arizona Cardinals cornerback Justin Bethel (28) during the third 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; Minnesota Vikings running back Jerick McKinnon (21) is tackled by Arizona Cardinals cornerback Justin Bethel (28) during the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Cardinals 30-24. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

The Offense – Grade: B-

The highlighted play of the week is one that almost worked, a wildcat jet sweep flea flicker, if Bradford would have been able to step into his throw, it wouldn’t matter that there was defensive pass interference, the pass was that close to being caught.

An improved offensive line led to more of an efficient rushing offense, meaning it wasn’t dynamic by any means, but it at least got 2 yards when needed. Adrian Peterson cannot return fast enough… Both McKinnon and Asiata can be complementary change of pace backs, but neither have shown the ability to be an every down game changing back.

The often criticized “Wildcat formation” actually today is what made the rushing attack actually look complete. The Cardinals bit so bad on the Wildcat jet sweep flea flicker play, and it stirred up memories and emotions reminiscent of Randall Cunningham and Daunte Culpepper unleashing deep throws to Randy Moss.

If the run-pass-trick play mix can continue to be wrinkles the defense cannot account for it will continue to boost, at least, the appearance of a running game that only totaled 72 yards.

Schedule