Should there be a cause for concern on the defensive side of the ball for the Minnesota Vikings?
Against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 2, the Minnesota Vikings gave up a lot of big plays on the defensive side of the ball. Although there were some positives, head coach Mike Zimmer has a lot of work to do if the Vikings’ defense wants to dominate and be a factor in games. The Minnesota Vikings gave up 474 total yards against the Cardinals, this just can’t happen.
The Vikings’ succeeded in limiting the Cardinals’ running backs to 72 yards, which is an improvement on the 149 yards they gave up in week one to the Cincinnati Bengals. However, the Vikings gave up too many big plays in the air at critical times throughout the game, making it increasingly more difficult to win the game.
Had it not been for the kicker, the Vikings would have won this game and the defense would have been scrutinized less. The defense did make plays at crucial times to give the ball back to the offense giving them an opportunity to go on and win the game, but putting it simply, they need to be better.
Minnesota Vikings had a few bright spots on defense last week
The Minnesota Vikings won the turnover battle, with two interceptions and a pick-six. Linebacker Nick Vigil was all over the place and made some very good plays, including the pick-six on the first drive in the second half, which was a huge momentum swinger.
Edge rusher Danielle Hunter looks to be back to his old self. With 3 sacks on Kyler Murray, he looked excellent and exactly what the Vikings have been missing. An elite edge rusher that can get to the quarterback at important times in the game and make a difference.
Minnesota Vikings offensive line showing signs of improvement
In Week 2, the offensive line of the Minnesota Vikings looked much improved against a very talented Arizona Cardinals defense.
While the Vikings gave up 34 points and almost 500 yards on offense, they made enough plays to put the offense in positions to with this game. The Vikings have more than enough talent to turn it around on defense, Russell Wilson and the Seattle Seahawks won’t be any easier. Will the defense be any better in week three?