MINNEAPOLIS, MN - SEPTEMBER 09: Kyle Rudolph #82 of the Minnesota Vikings catches the ball in the end zone for a touchdown over defender Jaquiski Tartt #29 of the San Francisco 49ers in the third quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) /
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – SEPTEMBER 09: Mike Hughes #21 of the Minnesota Vikings runs with the ball for a touchdown after intercepting a pass by Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers in the third quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) /
The Good Stuff
Getting the running back involved early and often. The first three plays all went to Dalvin Cook, resulting in two catches and two first downs. Although his rushing attempts didn’t result in big yardage on the first drive, setting that tone with the threat out of the backfield is important.
Pass rushing professionals. The Vikings defensive line gets pressure from just about everywhere, with Everson Griffen getting a sack while Danielle Hunter and Sheldon Richardson being extremely disruptive. This is going to be a fearsome unit all season.
Cousins throwing a dime. The Vikings brought in Kirk Cousins to open up the passing game and give the team a consistent quarterback for the next three years. Also, he made some really tough throws during the game into tight windows.
That goal line defense! Minnesota may be rushing the passer extremely well, but that doesn’t mean they are forgetting the run. Watching the Vikings work as San Francisco attempted to pound the football into the end zone was beautiful, with the entire team coming together to get a turnover.
Welcome to the NFL!Mike Hughes was everywhere during this game. He was great in punt coverage, played nickel, got himself an interception, and even a defensive touchdown. This is why Minnesota couldn’t pass on him when he was still available at the draft!
