The Minnesota Vikings won on the road in Tampa Bay, in an ugly game. There were 17 punts, 3 Interceptions, and 17 penalties. Three different times, the teams combined for five consecutive possessions ending in punts. The teams averaged less than 17 yards per possession in a defensive battle. The two defenses are stout, but they were assisted with some questionable offensive play by both teams’ QB and OL. The team is 3-0 overall, 2-0 in the NFC North, and 2-0 on the road. It’s a great start and we’ll
just have to hope the offense figures things out eventually. Here are my nominees for Player of the Game.
Eric Wilson
It was another fantastic defensive performance and Eric Wilson was at the center of most of the action. He was flying around the field yesterday. Wilson led the team with 10 total tackles and added 1.5 sacks.
Jordan Addison
Addison was the lone bright spot on offense. He has been open quite often this year and hasn’t received the service he deserves. He took advantage of his opportunity after Jefferson went down with 5 catches for 90 yards and a beautiful 41-yard touchdown. He almost pulled down another bomb later in the game, but he was unable to corral an underthrown deep ball.
Myles Price
Sometimes all you need is a spark. Price’s punt return touchdown gave the Vikings the breathing room they needed to keep the pressure on Tampa’s offense all day. Price looked electric on punts and kicks all day. If he finds a crease, he’s dangerous.
Will Reichard
Another week, another perfect day for Will Reichard. Will is a weapon and the way this team is playing, they’re going to be needing him a lot this season.
Kyle Van Noy
Van Noy had his first sack for the Vikings in the 2nd quarter. It was part of four consecutive three-and-outs (2 for each team). He also had a couple of more tackles for loss in the run game. Van Noy has quickly become another weapon in Brian Flores’ arsenal.
Honorable Mention:
Johnny Hekker – Hekker was solid all day, nothing insanely good, but solid. Great on holds too!
Jalen Redmond – another solid performance from Redmond. His deflection almost resulted in an interception.
Dallas Turner – Turner was disruptive all game once again. At some point we’re going to run out of ways to say he’s playing great football.
Blake Cashman – he could’ve been listed up there with Eric Wilson, but his best pass breakup was friednly fire on the ball that was tipped by Redmond.
