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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Kellen Mond – Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports /

You shall not pass

Since Kirk Cousins sat this game out, backup Jake Browning got the starting nod and rookie Kellen Mond filled in later. The duo played the entire game, throwing the ball a total of 26 times and completing only 11 of the throws for a total of 79 yards.

Browning played against Denver’s starting defense. He connected on five of his ten throws for 31 yards. Sadly, his day will be best remembered for the pick-six he tossed in the second quarter and an inability to push the ball down the field.

Mond showcased a more mobile style than Browning. He scrambled five times for 25 yards when he couldn’t find an open receiver or was under pressure. His six completions in 16 attempts for 53 yards won’t leave fans with a positive impression.

Both Jake Browning and Kellen Mond put forth bad outings. Their combined average of 3.2 yards per pass attempt is enough to make football fans want to put their head in their hands and cry. The only hope is that Week 2 of the preseason will be better.