7 takeaways from the Vikings’ loss to the Packers in Week 2
By Adam Patrick
Rushing attack is lethal
Heading into this season, the Vikings’ run game was expected to be improved compared to how poor it was a year ago. But two games into this season and Minnesota’s rushing attack has already exceeded its expectations.
During the last two weeks, the Vikings have gained a total of 370 yards on the ground. Only the Baltimore Ravens have rushed for more yards than Minnesota this season.
The Vikings’ four rushing touchdowns this year are tied for the most in the NFL after two games and their 5.7 yards per carry average is tied for the third-best mark in the league as well.
With 265 yards on the ground over the last two weeks, dynamic Minnesota running back Dalvin Cook is currently the NFL’s leading rusher. Cook’s backup, rookie Alexander Mattison, has looked good too as he’s chipped in with 74 yards on 13 carries in the Vikings’ first two games.
Despite being down 21-0 early on Sunday against the Packers, Minnesota stuck with their game plan and continued to run the ball. It resulted in the Vikings rushing for 198 yards and giving themselves a chance to come away with a win.