MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 31: Taylor Heinicke #6 of the Minnesota Vikings drops back with the ball against the Miami Dolphins during the first quarter in the preseason game on August 31, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – AUGUST 31: Kenyan Drake #32 of the Miami Dolphins carries the ball against Jabari Price #24 of the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter in the preseason game on August 31, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
The Good Stuff
Jaleel Johnson and Antone Exum standing out. When you play against lesser competition, you’re supposed to stand out. The rookie defensive tackle and defensive back looked like they truly belong on an NFL roster.
Eric Wilson showed some flashes. This has been a great preseason for some relatively unknown players. Eric Wilson had some very bright spots during the game, including sniffing out a screen and smashing a running back, causing a tackle for a loss.
The run game. Minnesota averaged nearly 5 yards per carry on offense in the first half and a little less than that in the second half. This offensive line is full of maulers who aren’t as great in pass protection, which will benefit runners like Newby and Hill.
4th quarter Teddy talks. Not only did Bridgewater get interviewed on the sidelines, but the last 10 minutes of the game was completely dominated by discussion of the injured quarterback. But it’s nice to talk about something positive, so this is an UP!
The game eventually ended. WOW. That game was like pulling teeth. The nice thing is that the game clock runs and there is a conclusion to this game, allowing me to go do something else and not watch my favorite football team get beaten up.
