Defense re-emerging as a strength for the Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Viking defense has been getting progressively better every week and could be a strength coming out of the bye week.

During the first few weeks, the Minnesota Vikings defense wasn’t much to brag about. This was expected, considering the number of new players coming in during free agency and returning from injury. It was no surprise the Vikings’ defense didn’t start as well.

From the team that played the final game of the season in 2020, only safety Harrison Smith and defensive end D.J. Wonnum remained. That is nine players having to be integrated into the team, six of which have never played a snap for the Vikings.

As the season has progressed, Minnesota has improved in all aspects on the defensive side of the ball. Although there have been concerns regarding cornerback Bashaud Breeland and his tendency to give up big plays, the Vikings have been relatively good in stopping the pass thus far.

Over the last three weeks, Minnesota’s defense is No. 1 in passing yards allowed (170.3). All the players on that side of the ball seem to be clear on their assignments and what they need to do on passing downs. Having a player like Eric Kendricks in the middle of the unit helps tremendously.

Minnesota Vikings defense starting to dominate the opposition

The Vikings had 23 sacks all last season, ranking 28th in the NFL. Six weeks in, and Minnesota already has 21 sacks, which is leading the league. A lot of that is to do with the return of Danielle Hunter from injury and reuniting him with free-agent Everson Griffen.

One factor that made the Vikings’ defense so good in 2017 was their ability to get off the field on third down. Through six games, no team has held their opponents to a lower conversion rate on third downs this season than Minnesota.

Things are looking good for the Vikings’ defense. At 3-3, Minnesota will hope this continues as they hope to make a good run that would hopefully put them back into playoff contention.