Nov 24, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Matt Asiata (44) breaks a tackle from Detroit Lions strong safety Tavon Wilson (32) for a touchdown run during the first quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /
Nov 24, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions defensive end Ezekiel Ansah (94) pressures Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford (8) during the first quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /
The Bad Things
Opening drive defense. When Detroit can take a drive that lasts over 7 minutes and pick up a bunch of first downs in the process, that means it is never good. The quick, efficient offense had the Vikings reeling and they had no answer.
Consistency in run blocking. This unit SHOULD be plowing through people and making big holes, as there are a lot of road graders on the line. However, they are being pushed backwards worse than ever, which should NOT be happening with this personnel but continues to happen this season.
Wrapping up a ball carrier. There is a lot of beauty in a huge hit to a ball carrier. It’s even better when that play can knock the ball out of their hands. But the Vikings defense needs to be sure they have a player wrapped up before delivering a huge blow.
Going for 4th and 3 before the half. The Vikings aren’t good enough offensively to give up this kind of field position. While picking it up would have been great momentum, the better play would have been to play the field position game and not give Detroit a short field to play with.
Short passes on 3rd and long. Every once in a while, a short pass on third and long can lead to the receiver picking up the first down by gaining yards after the catch. The Vikings seem to be relying on that FAR too often in this game, essentially just picking up what they can before punting the ball away.
