Minnesota Vikings MVPs: Week 9 vs. the Detroit Lions

Offensive MVP – Honorable Mentions

Week 9 saw the Vikings perform quite well on offense. The team was able to score five touchdowns against the Lions defense and keep their pass rush with newly acquired Everson Griffen from getting too much pressure.

Meanwhile, there were some great efforts from Minnesota’s receivers to get open thanks to the success of the run game. This allowed some of the more underused players on offense to have an opportunity to shine for the purple and gold.

Which three Vikings players who played well on offense but weren’t quite the MVP in Week 9?

Brian O’Neill- OT

The right tackle spot is one of the few spots on the offensive line that hasn’t been a liability or concern since Brian O’Neill stepped in as the starter. His ability to be an effective run blocker and contain the pass rush makes him an ideal lineman for Minnesota’s offense.

Irv Smith Jr. – TE

Irv Smith Jr. only had two catches in Sunday’s game against the Lions, but he made the most out of both of them. The tight end couldn’t have done any more with the two targets thrown his way, with both of them resulting in touchdowns. Plus, Smith continues to be a willing blocker to help out the Vikings run game.

Garrett Bradbury – C

It’s great to see two offensive linemen among the MVP candidates for this week and it gives encouragement that Minnesota might have found a combination of blockers that can be effective enough to help this team win games. Garrett Bradbury continues to improve after a rookie year where he struggled and if he can keep improving as his career goes on, he could be a long-term answer at center.