4 most disappointing Vikings in the Week 16 loss to the Rams

Cameron Dantzler – CB

Cameron Dantzler is having a bizarre second season in the league. He had an excellent rookie campaign, where he played very well and looked like a surefire quality starter for years to come. This season has been quite different.

Dantzler had a very rough preseason and was demoted to the bottom of the cornerback depth chart. He has worked his way back into being a starter, but he has struggled at times this season, and his game against the Rams was no different.

Dantzler’s coverage was very spotty against Los Angeles. There were some plays where he had good position on his man and was able to make a play on the ball. But there were far too many where he looked lost.

Whether it was facing the wrong way, giving up too much cushion, or not being able to close on his man, Dantzler was a favorite defender to target for Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. His coverage was tough to watch, but what was worse was his dropped interception early in the game.

Dantzler had a chance to intercept Stafford and kill Los Angeles’ first offensive drive. It wasn’t an easy play, but Dantzler broke on the ball and dove for it. It appeared to be a catch, but when he rolled over, the ball popped out. The Rams ended up scoring later on that drive making it a seven-point mistake.

Who knows if Minnesota would have been able to capitalize on that turnover, but Dantzler has to make those catches. He’s dropped too many of those this season, and seeing him do it again was frustrating.