MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 31: Mitchell Trubisky #10 of the Chicago Bears and Case Keenum #7 of the Minnesota Vikings greet each other after the game on December 31, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Vikings defeated the Bears 23-10. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DECEMBER 31: Bryce Callahan #37 of the Chicago Bears runs with the ball for a 59 yard punt return touchdown in the second quarter of the game against the Minnesota Vikings on December 31, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
The bad things from Week 17 vs Bears
Falling for the fake punt return. It’s understandable that the Vikings respect the Bears punt return game, but the second time the Bears attempted to mess with the Minnesota special teams unit was successful and resulted in a score. Not good.
More clock management issues. Before halftime, the decision when to take a timeout and when to run to the line to spike the ball can be a tough call. While I didn’t agree with calling one after a short completion, it thankfully worked out after a fake spike that left 1 second on a clock. Cutting it close!
The killer instinct. I’ve complained about it before but sitting on a lead when the game is 2 scores or less difference isn’t a good practice. Good teams will put other teams away and not let them linger around in hopes of stealing a win.
Another missed kick. Kai Forbath had a tough field goal attempt in this game. 55 yards is far from automatic, but after the team drove down the field and left one second to give him a chance with a new long snapper, it would have been great to see this kick go through. Considering his struggles this season, it is concerning.
Xavier Rhodes injury scare. It’s great to see him wanting to play, but if the Vikings want to have post-season success, they will need to have their star cornerback available. Thank goodness he will have some time to rest and recover.
