Minnesota Vikings MVPs: Week 9 vs. the Detroit Lions

Defensive MVP – Honorable Mentions

The Vikings paired their offensive assault with a defense that bent, but did not break against the Lions. Matthew Stafford did not look like himself against the purple and gold, throwing two interceptions before leaving the game with a concussion.

Detroit backup quarterback Chase Daniel added to his team’s interception total, tossing one more to bring the total to three. Each of those interceptions was by a different member of the Minnesota defensive unit.

Here are three Vikings players who played very well, but weren’t quite the defensive MVP.

Eric Kendricks – LB

What is this? Eric Kendricks is not the defensive MVP this week? Well, he was still an impact player for the Vikings by getting six tackles (three solo), one shared tackle for a loss, and one interception. He keeps doing it all for Minnesota.

Harrison Smith – S

Veteran safety Harrison Smith was another member of the Vikings to grab an interception. His was a sweet grab along the sideline where he was able to keep his feet inbounds. He also had 10 tackles on the day, seven of those solo efforts, with one hit on the Detroit quarterback.

Kris Boyd – CB

The past two seasons have seen a lot of cornerbacks try to stop opposing receivers for Minnesota, but it was Kris Boyd who stepped up in a big way against the Lions. He was second on the team in tackles with 11 takedowns, one of those coming behind the line of scrimmage, while adding a pass breakup.