Minnesota Vikings Best and Worst: Week 3 vs. Tennessee Titans

(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) Justin Jefferson
(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) Justin Jefferson /
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MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 27: Quarterback Ryan Tannehill #17 of the Tennessee Titans hands the ball to teammate Derrick Henry #22 during warm-ups before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 27, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
Ryan Tannehill #17 of the Tennessee Titans (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

The Worst

It feels so strange to see a Minnesota Vikings defense that doesn’t consistently get pressure on opposing quarterbacks. In fact, a Mike Zimmer strategy is to rely on that pass rush to make things easier on their linebackers and defensive backs.

Ifeadi Odenigbo had a solid game by getting four hits on quarterback Ryan Tannehill, but was unable to get a sack on those hits. On the other side, Yannick Ngakoue got one sack on the day when he stripped the ball out of Tannehill’s hands.

Considering the Titans were playing with a substitute offensive tackle and the Vikings have invested so much in their pass rush, it’s disappointing to see opposing quarterbacks stand in the pocket and be able to pick the defense apart.

Plus, the young cornerbacks could use the pressure to make their jobs easier. Getting after the quarterback can force bad throws or cause some poor decision making with even the most established passers in the league. Minnesota needs to be better.