Takeaways from Minnesota’s Week Two Victory
The Vikings surprised everyone again on Sunday, pulling off a major upset over the reigning NFC Champion San Francisco 49ers. In their 23-17 victory, Minnesota’s defense created constant chaos for Brock Purdy, causing the usually sure-handed quarterback to look flustered and eventually forced him into throwing a costly interception. After this performance, it’s hard to not see the Vikings as a team that could potentially be a threat come playoff time. It may have taken a blocked punt and a 97-yard touchdown pass, but the Vikings got the job done when it mattered most. While watching the game there were a few different takeaways I had based on what I saw on the field.
Takeaway #1: The Vikings Front Seven is a Top Five Unit in the League
It is no secret that the 49ers have one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, which makes it all the more impressive seeing what the Vikings defense was able to do on Sunday. Minnesota sacked Brock Purdy six times during their matchup which is the most times he has been sacked in a game in his career. Purdy was noticeably frustrated during the game and was quoted after the game saying “Your scheme is crazy” to Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores while shaking hands after the game. Through the first two weeks, the team ranks first in the league in sacks and is third in the league in total points allowed. This unit started out the season with so many question marks but they have quickly established themselves as one of the most dominant front sevens in the league.
Takeaway #2: Sam Darnold & Justin Jefferson Duo Still Has Untapped Potential
This duo was even more active this week than last week combining for 133 yards through the air and a touchdown on four connections. Unfortunately, Justin Jefferson had to leave the game during the second half due to a bruised quadricep and he was unable to return. Before his early exit, however, Jefferson and Sam Darnold were off to an electric start and even connected for a 97-yard touchdown in the first half. It was clear to anyone watching that there is still plenty of room to grow for this duo and the sky could be the limit for them as long as they are able to stay in good health.
Takeaway #3: Minnesota Could Be a Dark Horse in the NFC
Going into their matchup, the San Francisco 49ers were widely regarded as the favorites to win the NFC and make the Super Bowl for the second straight season. The Vikings beat that same 49ers squad and looked like the better team on both sides of the ball for the majority of their home opener. At the end of the day, it was only one game, however, if the Vikings are able to not only stay competitive but actually beat the best team in the NFC then they have to be considered a threat. A lot can change by the time the playoffs come around for a multitude of different reasons, but if Minnesota’s performance through two weeks is any indicator then I definitely see them having at least one playoff game. The Vikings defense has been more than good enough to shut down the top offenses in the league and Sam Darnold is finally performing at the level he was expected to perform at coming out of college. All signs are pointing toward Minnesota being a dark horse contender.
