3 worst moments from the Vikings’ loss to the Bills in Week 3

3. Joseph draws the flag

Hard for some to believe that the very first drive had a huge effect on the outcome of the game for the Vikings, but it definitely did not do them any favors.

After gaining six yards on their first two plays of the afternoon, the Bills’ offense faced a 3rd and 4 from their own 31-yard line. Buffalo rookie quarterback Josh Allen was about to really find out about Minnesota’s impressive third down defense.

Allen took the snap and was quickly engulfed by a sea of Vikings pass rushers. Minnesota linebacker Eric Wilson got the sack and just like that the Vikings easily forced the Bills’ offense into a three-and-out.

Not so fast.

Following the play, the game officials threw a flag and a penalty was called on Minnesota defensive tackle Linval Joseph for roughing the passer. Joseph’s helmet connected with Allen’s helmet and the refs had no other choice but to throw a flag.

Thanks to the penalty, Buffalo’s offense remained on the field and proceeded to end their drive with a touchdown. Something that probably would not have happened if not for Joseph’s roughing the passer penalty.

Little did everyone in U.S. Bank Stadium know, that penalty was just the first of many Vikings mistakes on Sunday.