Minnesota Vikings Week 10 player rankings: Heading into the bye

4. Linval Joseph (Down 1 spot)

In a game where the Vikings were able to net ten sacks on the quarterback, it was a little disappointing that “The Big Goon” wasn’t able to get in on the action or at least land a hit on the Lions passer.

He ended the game with only one tackle as well, but wasn’t tested often by a Lions offense that struggled to move the ball through the air or on the ground against Minnesota. Considering he’s still a bit banged up, the bye week will be good for him to heal up.

3. Harrison Smith (Down 1 spot)

Smith put forward a great effort on Sunday against the Lions, ending up being tied with linebacker Eric Wilson for third on the team in total tackles with seven, five of them being solo while playing in coverage and near the line of scrimmage.

While he was particularly effective in stopping the run, Smith was also solid in coverage by not allowing Detroit’s pass catchers to gain many yards after the catch thanks to his hard-hitting, yet sure-handed tackling technique.

2. Danielle Hunter (Up 3 spots)

Hunter was just WAY too low on this list and his performance against the Detroit Lions was a reminder of how much of a game-changer he can be when he is lined up just about anywhere on the defensive line.

In an impressive display of power and speed, Hunter tallied three and a half sacks on the day, which was only part of his efforts where he netted nine total tackles on the day, with six of them being solo. Plus, he now leads the NFL in total sacks with 11.5 on the season.

Of course, he also got to show off his speed when he recovered a dropped lateral tossed by Matthew Stafford and returned it 32 yards for a score at a time when Minnesota was looking to put away the Lions.