MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Vikings began the season with an impressive 5-0 record, powered by a formidable defense that excelled in both pass rushing and tackling. However, this past week marked a significant downturn for the team, as they faced two quarterbacks who expertly dismantled their defensive strategies.
Following their first loss of the season to the Detroit Lions, who showcased a dynamic offensive performance, the Vikings encountered another setback against the Los Angeles Rams, who employed a similar approach. Both Jared Goff of the Lions and Matthew Stafford of the Rams effectively exposed the Vikings’ zone coverage, leading to substantial yardage and touchdowns. The duo combined for a staggering 47 completions on 59 attempts, racking up 559 yards and six touchdowns. The lone turnover created by the Vikings during these games couldn’t slow the momentum of their opponents.
There’s no embarrassment in yielding yardage to quarterbacks like Goff and Stafford. The Lions, guided by offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, have become a strong contender with a well-rounded offensive lineup, currently ranking second in the NFL for total yards and third for points scored. Meanwhile, the Rams saw the return of standout wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, reinvigorating their offense reminiscent of their recent Super Bowl-winning season.
In their matchup against the Lions, the Vikings managed to sack Goff four times, applying some effective pressure at different points in the game. However, during their game against Stafford, they struggled to make any significant impact, failing to record a sack and only registering two quarterback hits. One particularly noteworthy moment occurred when defensive end Jonathan Greenard nearly sacked Stafford, who skillfully avoided the tackle and threw a touchdown pass to Kupp.
With linebacker Blake Cashman sidelined due to a turf toe injury for the second consecutive game, the Vikings found it challenging to contain the Rams’ run game. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ various blitz schemes, which had been effective throughout the season, had little effect on Goff and even less on Stafford, who adeptly executed several screen passes to exploit the speed of his receivers.
Vikings cornerback Shaquill Griffin acknowledged the need for adjustments, noting that opponents are capitalizing on their defensive weaknesses and intensifying their screen and run plays. Communication and alignment issues also persisted during the game, compounded by Cashman’s absence.
Despite these challenges, Griffin expressed a belief that team morale remains intact, stating, “I think everybody’s still in high spirits, but no one likes this feeling.” The sting of back-to-back losses intensified with the news that star left tackle Christian Darrisaw has been ruled out for the season due to torn ligaments in his knee, as confirmed by head coach Kevin O’Connell.
On a positive note, quarterback Sam Darnold has been thriving this season, achieving a season-high passer rating of 128.7 against the Rams and placing him fifth in the league for passer ratings.
On the other hand, the Vikings’ offense has been hampered by unnecessary pre-snap penalties. Against the Rams, they were penalized for two false starts and two illegal formations, following a similar pattern against the Lions.
In terms of individual performances, punter Ryan Wright had a standout game, averaging 50.3 yards on three punts and consistently placing them inside the 20-yard line. Conversely, receiver Jalen Nailor had a missed opportunity early in the fourth quarter, dropping a crucial pass that would have led to a first down and potentially a go-ahead touchdown. Since scoring in the first three games, Nailor’s impact has diminished.
Looking ahead, the Vikings will have to navigate the injury struggles, but they are expected to welcome back tight end T.J. Hockenson next week, with Cashman also on track for a return.
A key statistic that looms over the team is their dismal record: they have suffered nine consecutive defeats in night games against teams from the Western divisions, a streak that dates back to a win over Oakland in 1996.
Next on the schedule, the Vikings will host the Indianapolis Colts on November 3, a match designated for prime time by NBC amid the league’s flexible scheduling. This will be followed by three straight away games against Jacksonville, Tennessee, and Chicago.