Vikings Fall to 10-3

Well, the Vikings fail to clinch the division as the Lions win 34-23 in what was just a sloppy game overall. It started out terrible with the Vikings failing to convert a 4th and 1 to give the Lions the ball in Vikings territory. For almost the entire game the Lions were hitting deep balls, running the ball, and converting every 3rd down. Despite that, it was only 14-7 and the Vikings were threatening to score right before half. However, a weird play call for Dalvin Cook to pass ended up turning into a fumble which resulted in no points. 

In the second half the offense got shut down and the Vikings trailed 21-7. The Vikings were able to fight back into the game thanks to some great performances by Jefferson and Cousins. The game was only 31-23 with 2:50 to go. It was clear, however, that the Vikings couldn't get a stop. They tried an onside kick, which failed. A field goal with 15 seconds left made it a two-score game and it was clear that it was over. 

The main takeaway from this game is that the defense is terrible. They are last in yards per game, and it is clear that this scheme isn't working, and the players are underperforming. A 10-3 record this season still has a lot of positives, but it is really a shame that this Vikings defense has been the worst in the league. If this keeps up it seems as if Ed Donatell will be gone after this year and the Vikings won't make it far in the playoffs. 

Jefferson went for a franchise 223 yards in the game and it was all wasted because of this terrible defensive performance. It is necessary to make the defense a priority this short week as the Vikings take on the Colts on Saturday.