4 silver linings from the Vikings loss to the Bucs in Week 1

Silver Lining No. 2

Minnesota's defense was better

The Vikings' defense was one of the worst in the entire NFL a season ago, and Minnesota made changes to improve it. Hiring Brian Flores as their new defensive coordinator was the biggest move, changing this scheme from a bend-and-don't-break unit like it was under Ed Donatell to an aggressive, attacking scheme.

The change looks like it worked. Obviously, Baker Mayfield isn't an elite quarterback and missed plenty of throws, but the Bucs do have some impressive offensive weapons in the form of Chris Godwin and Mike Evans.

The Vikings' young corners did well sticking to them and held the Bucs to 242 total yards of offense. A year ago, we would have seen Minnesota give that amount up in a single half.

We saw plenty of pressure brought from various spots as Mayfield had to scamper to avoid the heat. It would've been nice to see this unit force a turnover or two, but just seeing the way they attacked and the various looks that were brought was a breath of fresh air.

It will be a stiffer test this week against the Eagles, but the defense looks like it will be much better this season, and that is something the Vikings can be excited about after a heartbreaking loss.