Fansided

5 reasons Vikings can win the Super Bowl this year

By Russell S. Baxter

Eagan, MN-August 6: Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook during training camp at TCO Performance Center. (Photo by Carlos Gonzalez/Star Tribune via Getty Images)
Eagan, MN-August 6: Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook during training camp at TCO Performance Center. (Photo by Carlos Gonzalez/Star Tribune via Getty Images) /
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MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DECEMBER 30: Harrison Smith #22 of the Minnesota Vikings tackles Javon Wims #83 of the Chicago Bears in the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 30, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DECEMBER 30: Harrison Smith #22 of the Minnesota Vikings tackles Javon Wims #83 of the Chicago Bears in the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 30, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) /

4. Re-establish defensive excellence

Well, some of the final numbers looked the same from the previous season when the Minnesota Vikings allowed the fewest total yards in the league, ranked second both in rushing in both rushing and passing yards allowed per game while surrendering an NFL-low 252 points.

But early on this past season, Mike Zimmer’s pride and joy looked like it was still reeling from being pasted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2017 NFC title game. Yes, then-starting quarterback Case Keenum had a forgettable afternoon in the City of Brotherly Love. But the Vikings allowed season highs in total yards (456) and points in a 38-7 setback.

Early in 2018, Minnesota defenders looked as if they were still reeling from the embarrassing showing. The Vikings won just once in their first four outings and allowed a total of 110 points and 10 offensive touchdowns. The remainder of the season, this same club permitted 20.1 points per outings and surrendered only 18 offensive TDs in a dozen contests.

So what can be expected this season? This is still a very talented unit and many of its standout performers have played together for a number of years. Defensive end Danielle Hunter leads an effective pass rush, linebackers Eric Kendricks and Anthony Barr are productive and the secondary is top-notch with safety Harrison Smith and cornerbacks Xavier Rhodes and Trae Waynes. If this group picks up where it left off during the second half of ‘18, it will once again be a difference maker.

Next: No. 3

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