Pass Coverage
This ties a bit into the first area that needs improvement because it was the Vikings’ pass coverage, or lack thereof, that allowed the Chargers to convert on third downs.
Minnesota’s cover men have struggled badly this season and the group didn’t exactly do great against Los Angeles’ top receiving targets last week, Mike Williams and Keenan Allen.
The most frustrating aspect of the dismal coverage is that even when the Vikings defenders are in good position, the opposing receiver always seems to make the grab. This is an ongoing issue with the 2019 Vikings and it is clearly their Achilles’ heel when it comes to the defense.
Mike Zimmer did rotate his corners more last week and that seemed to help. Xavier Rhodes has been horrible for Minnesota this year and his snap count was much lower last week. Though some of that could’ve been because of an injury he suffered, once again.
Every team the Vikings face from here on out will be well aware of their struggles defending the pass. Expect Aaron Rodgers to be slinging the ball early and often in Week 16. But hopefully, Zimmer has some adjustments planned so this issue can go away or at least get better.