Jan 1, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph (82) celebrates his touchdown with quarterback Sam Bradford (8) during the second quarter against the Chicago Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
Jan 1, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes (29) intercepts a pass during the first quarter against the Chicago Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
The Good Stuff
A very fast start. The Minnesota Vikings came out to a hot start offensively. A nice long pass to Patterson set up the Vikings just outside the red zone, where McKinnon ran it in. The longer the season goes on, the more the offense looks like it is getting on the same page.
Xavier Rhodes always comes to play. This guy is just plain good. The work he has put in and the things the coaching staff have done to develop him over his career have paid off in a big, big way. He was a well-deserved addition to this year’s Pro Bowl.
Marcus Sherels as a return man. Vikings fans saw what happened when Sherels missed time, so it isn’t a huge surprise that he has a high value on the field for punt returns. But in a game where field position is king, these great return men of Minnesota have helped in a big way.
Sam Bradford continues to be accurate. Bradford continues to complete passes at a near record rate and limit his interceptions. While he hasn’t been able to pile on the touchdowns in some games, he definitely succeeded against the Bears despite a miscue in the 3rd quarter.
Vikings pass defense. Where the run defense failed, the pass defense excelled. They intercepted Barkley twice and managed to not give up big pass plays aside from the one before halftime. Not to mention some sacks, especially one that directly led to a Griffen touchdown.
