5 Vikings players who have been key to their turnaround in 2020
By Dean Jones
Harrison Smith – S
Harrison Smith hasn’t been on many losing teams during his time with the Vikings. His competitive nature simply won’t accept anything but the highest of standards and the energy he’s displayed following the bye week has been a massive influence during the team’s three-game win streak.
Some thought Smith might be trade bait before this season’s deadline. This is something Minnesota never really entertained despite the rumors of a rebuild upcoming and if the player himself saw this speculation, then he is clearly doing everything in his power to prove that he is still one of the best in the business.
Smith has a rare ability to impact the game anywhere on the field from the safety position. He plays well in coverage, he can cover cornerbacks when they get beaten, and he is renowned for coming to the second level or even the line of scrimmage in run support and blitz packages.
The former Notre Dame standout leads by example, something which is clearly benefitting the less experienced defensive players in Minnesota of late. There was always going to be a period of transition after so many established veterans moved on in the offseason, but Smith is leading the charge on a defense that has shown some marked improvements across the board.