3 unsung heroes from the Vikings Week 9 win over the Commanders

James Lynch – DL

Filling in for stud lineman Dalvin Tomlinson is no easy task, but third-year player James Lynch did a solid job in Tomlinson’s place. Two total tackles aren’t exactly jumping off the page at you, but the Commanders ran the ball 24 times against Minnesota and amassed a rough 3.3 yards per carry.

The Vikings’ defensive line, as a whole, is to thank for that number, but Lynch was making solid plays all Sunday, helping reassure Minnesota fans about the depth along the line.

An honorable mention is in place for Khyiris Tonga as well, as Lynch and Tonga rotated and had themselves solid games up the middle. Tomlinson may be back this week for Buffalo, but with his injury, it was a solid boost of confidence this past weekend that Lynch and Tonga were able to sub in for Tomlinson and do a strong job.

Tonga got his first real taste of playing time this past weekend and performed well, but Lynch has gotten snaps all season for Minnesota and has continued to perform when given the chance.