Minnesota Vikings MVPs: Week 7 vs. Detroit Lions
By Adam Carlson
Offensive MVP – Honorable Mentions
The Minnesota Vikings put up 42 points in this game, with many players contributing in both the pass and run game. All the contributions added up to a complete game, which is something fans are getting used to the last couple of weeks.
Even though these players weren’t named the MVP, here are some honorable mentions for the award:
- Dalvin Cook, running back – It was amazing that Cook gained as many yards as he did after contact. There were many times it looked like he was stopped for a loss or no gain and turned it into a big play or at least a solid gain. He ran 25 times for 142 yards and two scores adding one catch for seven yards.
- Bisi Johnson, wide receiver – When Adam Thielen left the game with an injury, the Vikings called on Johnson to take over his role. It worked out pretty well, with him drawing a pass interference call in the end zone and then catching his first career touchdown. He ended with four catches for 40 yards.
- Irv Smith, Jr, tight end – Smith is turning out to be a good pass catcher and a solid receiver in his rookie year. This week, he caught five passes for 60 yards and looks to be a viable option in the Minnesota passing game. Plus, keeping him on the field on run plays works because he has been blocking quite well!
- Stefon Diggs, wide receiver – Diggs was a big play machine this week, He hauled in seven of his eight targets for 142 yards, but had a few errors as well. He wasn’t able to haul in a deep throw that would have resulted in a touchdown. Plus, he did have the ball stripped away from him which was recovered by Alexander Mattison.
- The entire offensive line – Is the offensive line actually clicking or was this an anomaly? Either way, the line gave Cousins a lot of time in the pocket to accurately deliver passes and even create some good running lanes. Josh Kline and Brian O’Neill have both been great this season, but it’s nice to see the others step up as well. Zero sacks and limited pressure is a recipe for success.