Schmidt’s Week 5 game grades: Minnesota Vikings vs. Chicago Bears

Minnesota Vikings offensive grade: C

The Minnesota Vikings’ offense welcomed back Sam Bradford, who missed three straight games with a bone bruise. However, it was a night that he and the Vikings would rather forget. Bradford struggled throughout the first half. He went 5 for 11 for 36 yards before he was benched in the second half.

Case Keenum got the nod in the second half and became the hero for the Vikings. He went 17 for 21 for 140 yards and one touchdown. Also, he had one carry for 22 yards which was a very big run that came on a third down play.

A week ago the Vikings lost Dalvin Cook for the season, but they may have found his replacement. Jerick McKinnon stepped up Monday night and played a pivotal role in the win for the Vikings. McKinnon finished with 16 carries for 95 yards and one touchdown. The huge highlight from him came on his 58 yard touchdown in the third quarter.

Also, McKinnon led the Vikings in receiving yards with 51 yards. He also tied with Kyle Rudolph for receptions. Both of them finished with six catches.

Rudolph had six receptions on nine targets for 45 yards and one touchdown. Rudolph led all receivers in targets.

The Vikings’ offensive line battled through a rough game as they gave up four sacks. One of those sacks was on Bradford, who held on the ball too long, resulting in a safety for the Bears.

Overall, the Vikings’ offense was saved by Keenum and McKinnon, who lead the Vikings to two touchdowns and help set up the game winning field goal. The Vikings have a lot of decisions on who their starting quarterback will be next week and possibly for the rest of the year.