Dec 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) is tackled by Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Kendricks (54) and defensive tackle Linval Joseph (98) during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
Dec 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings kicker Kai Forbath (2) kicks a field goal during the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
The Good Stuff
U.S. Bank Stadium was rocking! The fans in attendance know just how important this game is for the Vikings. Not only did they help get a false start penalty on the first Cowboys drive, but it was even hard to hear the announcers before the game with the SKOL chant going on.
Kai Forbath can kick! The kicker knocked through a 48 yard field goal in the first quarter which normally would have given fans in Minnesota nightmares. After that, he knocked through more kicks to make fans feel like the team did the right thing at the position.
The Vikings defense was swarming. There was no lack of motivation or effort when it came to the players getting after the Cowboys. Every effort was fast and decisive, yet disciplined, particularly when it came to containing the Dallas run game.
Watching a monster be made. I’ve given Danielle Hunter a lot of praise in the past. His talents are hard to ignore. But he’s going to get a MASSIVE payday and might just be a pass rusher for the Vikings for a long, long time. Speed, motor, athleticism, focus…he’s got it all.
Winning the time of possession. Dallas had more explosive plays, but Minnesota was able to control the pace of the game and pick up first downs in a methodical fashion. This was a big reason the Vikings were able to hang with the Cowboys throughout the game.
