Minnesota’s offense struggled to get going on Sunday against Miami, going three-and-out 10 times and converting just two third downs.
But just like they did in their previous victories, the Vikings found a way to win. Mizutani wrote:
As much as [the Vikings] have struggled, they have consistently stepped up late in games.
That script played out in consecutive comeback wins over the Lions, Saints and Bears. All of those games featured a game-winning drive from quarterback Kirk Cousins in the final minutes. The offense deserves credit for that.
Defensively, Mizutani gave Minnesota a ‘C+’.
The Vikings are near the bottom of the NFL in opposing yards per game, giving up 384.5 on average (26th), but are just outside the Top 10 in limiting points, ranking 11th at 19.7 per contest.
Mizutani noted Minnesota’s “bend-don’t-break” mentality on defense so far.
It’s pretty clear the Vikings are content to let opposing teams rack up yards so long as that doesn’t result in points. It’s a slippery slope, and the Vikings have navigated it to perfection by forcing key, opportunistic turnovers.
Whether it was cornerback Cam Dantzler, Sr., forcing a fumble in the win over the Bears a couple of weeks ago, or safety Harrison Smith forcing a fumble in the win over the Dolphins on Sunday, the defense has managed to step up in the biggest moments.
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