The Minnesota Vikings are absolutely soaring in the NFL power rankings, jumping from 22nd to 15th on NFL.com after just two weeks of regular season play. This squad just put a 39-22 beatdown on the Green Bay Packers back on September 13, and it’s their defense that’s turning every head in the league right now. Seriously, the talk out there is that until some team figures out Brian Flores’ scheme, Minnesota is gonna command respect every single week.
The Defensive Dominance Is Real
Look, when Sports Illustrated says Flores is averaging a blitz rate “well over 70% through two weeks,” you know this isn’t some vanilla defense. They’re bringing the heat, and it’s precise chaos. SI points out how Flores even sets up his best pass rushers against the most vulnerable blockers. It’s next-level stuff. Dallas Turner, that former first-round pass-rusher, has been a consistent difference-maker already, racking up 11 QB hits and three sacks in just two games. That’s absurd! ESPN.com even has their defense and special teams both ranked No. 6 in the NFL in EPA. This D isn’t just good, it’s making plays when it counts, with Pro Football Talk saying they “has a flair for showing up in the biggest possible moments.”
Rookies Stepping Up, Murray On The Horizon
It’s not just the scheme, though; the talent is showing up big time. Folks are starting to learn names like Orange and Caleb Banks, with Banks being Minnesota’s first-round rookie defensive tackle. Plus, fifth-round tight end Max Bredeson is getting bonus points for playing fullback. This team is getting contributions from everywhere! While the defense and special teams are shining, the rushing game is sitting at No. 16 in EPA, which is fine, but Pro Football Focus is dropping a truth bomb: the performance of Kyler Murray will reveal a lot about their long-term chances. He’s been down, so it’s been Carson Wentz time at quarterback. Murray is set to return this week, which is a big deal for them.
The Vikings are heading into Week 3 to face Tampa Bay, and with Murray coming back, everyone is going to be watching to see if this offense can catch up to what the defense is doing. This early season momentum is legit, and it sets a huge tone for their year.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Daily Norseman.
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