The Vikings eked out another ugly road win in Tampa 23-16 on the strength of Brian Flores’ defense, a Myles Price punt return touchdown, a bomb from Kyler Murray to Jordan Addison, and another flawless performance from Will Reichard.
Stock Up
Will Reichard. Nailed a couple 50+ field goals without breaking a sweat or even a jump in heart rate. Cool as a cucumber, the prince of darkness for opposing teams. 11 total points on 3 field goals and two extra points.
Myles Price. First punt return for a touchdown in
ten years came at a good time. Price has improved as a returner so far this year and this is the second game he’s impacted in a positive way with his returns this season.
Kyle Van Noy. Van Noy had a sack, but also has been all-around solid in rotation. Nice late acquisition for the Vikings to shore up depth off the edge.
Isaiah Rodgers. He was targeted 5 times and allowed one reception for one yard. He also had three stops and the interception to end the game.
Jordan Addison. His 5 receptions for 90 yards was pretty much the Vikings entire passing game after Justin Jefferson went out after the first drive. Much needed explosives that made a difference.
Eric Wilson. He gave up a big reception but was relentless as a pass rusher, credited with 5 pressures including 2 sacks according to PFF.
Stock Down
Josh Metellus. Metellus gave up the big touchdown reception to Ted Hurst and it wasn’t close. He did okay outside of that but I find it hard to believe he is the best safety on the roster. He’s the only safety playing all the defensive snaps.
Jauan Jennings. He had one reception on two targets for one yard. His yards per route run was 0.04. At this point, Jennings has been a significant disappointment.
Tai Felton. Felton didn’t have a reception- and only one target- after filling in for Justin Jefferson after the first drive. A whole lot of not so much in his first significant opportunity to show what he’s got.
Buy
Jefferson and Addison’s ability to get open and make the catch.
Sell
Every other receiver’s ability to get open and make the catch when Jefferson is out.
Buy
How good these early wins will look in hindsight if the offense improves.
Sell
The Vikings chances of continuing to win like this if the offense doesn’t improve.
Buy
Not drawing conclusions on the Murray-led offense after his first full game, especially given Justin Jefferson was out after the first drive.
Sell
The Vikings offense ability to cope without Justin Jefferson.
Buy
Road wins- any which way they come.
