Minnesota Vikings MVPs: Week 3 vs. Tennessee Titans
By Adam Carlson
Offensive MVP – Honorable Mentions
One great thing about this game was that there was no garbage time yardage or points. All of the plays in Week 3 were meaningful and could have had a big impact on the outcome of the game. That is hugely different from the first two weeks of the season for the Vikings.
However, some players did play better than others. Let’s take a look at three individuals who had good games for Minnesota, but didn’t quite do enough to be named the team’s offensive MVP for the week.
Dalvin Cook – RB
The Vikings running back set a career-high for rushing yards in a single game. Cook‘s 181 yards on the ground was impressive to behold, especially his 39-yard touchdown run that showed how dangerous he can be any time he touches the football. On the day, he averaged 8.2 yards per carry, which is amazing. Cook also added two catches for 16 yards, making his offensive output 197 yards.
Kyle Rudolph – TE
Interestingly enough, Rudolph isn’t here for his stat line. One look at his two catches for 11 yards is enough to make any fan be disappointed by the stat sheet. It is how the tight end got his first touchdown of the season that was eye-popping. The catch radius and ability to keep his feet in bounds were on full display on his grab and it gives hope that he can keep being a great red-zone target.
Kirk Cousins – QB
Kirk Cousins may have only completed 16 of his 27 passes on the day for 251 yards, but he was facing consistent pressure from the Titans defense, and he stood in there to deliver the ball at all levels, including some deep throws. One of his two interceptions was a terrible decision that he likely wishes he had back. The other was a hail mary to end the game. Overall, he had a solid, but not great, day.