The Minnesota Vikings have gotten off to a 4-0 start, but they've struggled offensively for most of the season. Dominant performances by the defense and special teams have carried the load, helping the Vikings pick up two crucial division wins, but how sustainable is this formula?
Despite being one of three remaining undefeated teams, Minnesota was ranked No. 9 on ESPN's Power Rankings, one spot behind the 3-1 Chicago Bears, whom the Vikings beat in Week 2.
ESPN's Kevin Seifert highlighted the highs and lows of this flawed but undefeated squad.
The Vikings are 2-0 in the NFC North, even though their offense has been one of the NFL's worst. The explanation is clear: Minnesota's defense ranks No. 1 in expected points added, and its special teams
unit ranks No. 2. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores has overwhelmed opponents with a 68% blitz rate, kicker Will Reichard has made all 12 field goal attempts and returner Myles Price is averaging 30.2 yards per kickoff return and 20.1 yards per punt return. The offense has scored only one touchdown since Week 1, but those other contributions have been enough for the Vikings to keep winning.
Interestingly, the other two undefeated teams sit atop the rankings. The San Francisco 49ers are No. 1, while the Kansas City Chiefs sit at No. 2. It's still early, and potentially getting Justin Jefferson back this week could go a long way for the Vikings' offense. But right now, they are perceived as the weakest of the 4-0 squads.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Where did the Vikings land in ESPN's Week 5 power rankings?
