Fansided

5 signs the Minnesota Vikings are for real

By Nathaniel Reeves

Sep 25, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen (97) reacts after making a sack in the fourth quarter. The Vikings defeated the Panthers 22-10 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen (97) reacts after making a sack in the fourth quarter. The Vikings defeated the Panthers 22-10 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 18, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr (55) against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Packers 17-14. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr (55) against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Packers 17-14. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

1. An ultra-talented young defense is hitting its prime 

Over the past five years, including just before Zimmer took over, the Vikings have been stacking the defensive side of the ball with high draft picks. That’s paying off for the team, as Minnesota has moved from the 32nd to 11th to fifth ranked defense over the past three years, and is only getting better.

Zimmer’s first draft pick with the Vikings was UCLA linebacker Anthony Barr at No. 8 overall in 2014. Barr has been the centerpiece of the turnaround, as he’s quickly developed into one of the best linebackers in the NFL.

The 2015 draft is what is turning the Vikings defense from great to completely dominant. Cornerback Trae Waynes was terrific against Carolina, linebacker Eric Kendricks looks like a nice complement to Barr, and defensive end Danielle Hunter established himself as a pass rushing force as a rookie.

Minnesota has been tough against Rodgers since Zimmer came aboard, and the Green Bay star had a poor game in Week 2 while being sacked five times. The Vikings turned right around and sacked reigning MVP Cam Newton eight times, tying a career high. Overall, Minnesota has allowed 4.4 yards per play, forced nine turnovers, and recorded 15 sacks, all top marks in the NFL.

While the foundation is young talent, veterans Harrison Smith and Everson Griffen are among the best players in the league at their positions. There’s really no weaknesses on the Vikings defense, particularly if Zimmer can develop Waynes into a shutdown corner.

It’s still early, but Minnesota looks to be on the same level defensively as the 2015 Broncos or 2013 Seahawks, which could result in a Super Bowl title.

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