7 takeaways from the Vikings win over the Cowboys in Week 10

Rudy comes up big in the red zone

After a very slow start to the season, the Vikings have been involving tight end Kyle Rudolph much more in their offense during the last few weeks.

During Minnesota’s first five games this year, Rudolph had just six catches for 36 yards. But since then, the Vikings veteran tight end has hauled in 18 passes for 148 yards and four touchdowns.

Rudolph added two scores to his 2019 total on Sunday night during Minnesota’s win and both came in the red zone. All four of his receiving touchdowns this season have actually come when the Vikings have lined up in the red zone.

Rudolph’s first trip to the end zone on Sunday night might have featured the most impressive catch of his entire career in Minnesota. On a pass that looked like it was almost meant to be thrown away by Kirk Cousins, the veteran tight end snatched the football out of the air with one hand and got both feet inbounds to put six points on the board for the Vikings.

Minnesota has relied on Rudolph’s blocking skills much more this season and he hasn’t complained about his role one bit. But during the times when the offense has actually utilized him as a receiver this year, the Vikings top tight end has usually been able to step up and make a play.