Vikings vs. Broncos: 5 takeaways from Week 1 of the Preseason

Aug 14, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Jake Browning (3) drops back to pass against the Denver Broncos in the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 14, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Jake Browning (3) drops back to pass against the Denver Broncos in the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
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Minnesota Vikings
Dakota Dozier (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

The “not ready for prime time” players

This was a sloppy game in many ways for the Minnesota Vikings. Eight penalties were accepted against the team resulting in a loss of 68 yards. Those mental mistakes are one thing, but there were other errors as well that hurt the team.

Big drops from Whop Philyor and Ihmir Smith-Marsette contributed to the Vikings not scoring a touchdown. Plus, a poor decision by Jake Browning resulted in a pick-6 for rookie cornerback Patrick Surtain II.

An ugly holding call on Dakota Dozier resulting in a safety will get him from redeeming himself on the offensive line. Otherwise, the team only gave up on sack on the day and there was a nice push in the run game.

The biggest disappointment of the day is probably punter Britton Colquitt. He seemed to have the job locked down since he is the only punter on the roster, but now the team may have to look into free agency to find some competition for him this week.

Schedule