The best thing – Take it to the limit
One of the most interesting things about the Chargers is how they play streaky football. When they are on top of their game, they can go blow-for-blow with the best teams in the NFL. When they struggle, they usually end up with a colossal implosion.
The way the game started, it looked like it was going to be a quick and efficient offense from Los Angeles. Philip Rivers was completing passes at a high rate and the Chargers moved the chains well in the opening period of play. It looked as though the “good” version of the team was here to play in Week 15.
That illusion faded quickly, as Rivers ended the day with three interceptions and the Chargers offense put the ball on the ground on five separate occasions, losing four of them to a swarming Vikings defense with one being returned for a touchdown.
Minnesota knew that if they played solid offense and could get some takeaways that they would have a great chance at winning this game in California. Seven takeaways not only gave the Vikings a highly-convincing win that the defense needed in order to raise confidence heading into the final two games of the regular season.