Defensive MVP – Honorable Mentions
Honestly, the Vikings defense wasn’t very good on Sunday. The Bucs missed some big plays that could have resulted in scores and stretched out their lead to make the game even more of a lopsided affair.
As a whole, Minnesota’s defense only had three hits on Tampa Bay quarterback Tom Brady that resulted in zero sacks with zero interceptions. Giving Brady that kind of time isn’t good as he was able to pick apart the Vikings defense and have his way with a young cornerback grouping.
Jeff Gladney – CB
Brady threw five passes toward Jeff Gladney in the game and they resulted in his targets finishings with three catches for 31 total yards. Plus, Gladney had five tackles on the day (three solo) and one of the three hits on Brady by the Vikings defense. While his game wasn’t great on Sunday, it was still one of the better ones from a Minnesota defender.
Eric Wilson – LB
With Eric Kendricks ruled out again and the team already starting a backup linebacker in the other role, it was up to Eric Wilson to step up and be a team leader for the Vikings. He was third in total tackles for the team, bringing down six ball carriers (two solo) with one pass break-up, and one hit on the Bucs quarterback.
Todd Davis – LB
Replacing Kendricks isn’t really possible, but Todd Davis has been solid in his role for Minnesota this season. The Vikings did a good job by signing him after he was part of the final cuts for the Denver Broncos earlier this year and it has paid off nicely considering the injuries to their linebacker group. Davis led Minnesota with seven total tackles (three solo) down in Tampa.