Vikings joint practice with Titans 2023: Top takeaways from Day 1

Vikings takeaway No. 2

Holding the "King"

Stopping the run is an essential part of putting together a solid defensive unit. There isn't a much better test for a defensive front than taking on one of the most respected running backs in the league in the form of Titans' rusher Derrick Henry.

According to Strictly Football's Leighton Glodek on X, the Minnesota Vikings defense was doing a very good job of handling the rushing attack of "The King" during the joint practice but struggled against the pass.

This is to be expected with so many new faces on defense, but hearing there is some stout work in the trenches should help to relax the nerves of fans who are still questioning if this defensive unit can be better this year.

A more aggressive attack by new defensive coordinator Brian Flores should assure that things aren't as rough as the more passive approach previously used by Ed Donatell. The battle starts in the trenches and it's good to hear that part of the defense is doing well.