Quarterback Sam Bradford was given more time to throw, which allowed him to push the ball downfield for several explosive plays, including a 39-yard pass to top receiver Stefon Diggs that set up a field goal. Stefon Diggs Jerseys Rookie starter Dalvin Cook showed off his explosiveness on several breakout runs, picking up a total of 40 yards on just seven carries. While the starters didn’t put up an impressive point total in three drives, the Vikings accomplished one of their biggest goals by showing progress on offense.
QB depth chart: Bradford played the Vikings’ first three drives and finished 7-for-11 with 95 yards. Teddy Bridgewater Jerseys Minnesota’s offensive line did a much better job protecting Bradford than it did in the preseason opener against the Buffalo Bills, giving up zero sacks and providing time for the QB to work.
Backup Case Keenum was solid for the second straight week. Adrian Peterson Jerseys After entering the game late in the second quarter, the first-year Viking went 12-for-18 for 70 yards on mostly dink-and-dunk throws. Minnesota managed only a field goal with Keenum in the game.
Once again, third-string quarterback Taylor Heinicke struggled at first, Anthony Barr Jerseys throwing an interception and several inaccurate passes after entering in the fourth quarter. But the former Old Dominion QB rebounded late in the game by tossing a touchdown pass to tight end Bucky Hodges.
When it was starters vs. starters, the Vikings looked …: Uneven. Brett Favre Jerseys On the offensive side, the Vikings’ first team did not score, but it moved the ball effectively both on the ground and through the air. Bradford and Diggs have not missed a beat since gaining instant chemistry last season. Bradford went 4-for-5 with 65 yards when throwing in Diggs’ direction. Cook also impressed in the starters’ third series with a 15-yard carry and two 9-yard rushes.
Coach Mike Zimmer will not be thrilled with the performance by his defensive starters. Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson finished the night with 206 yards and two touchdowns and completed all four passes he threw to Doug Baldwin, his No. 1 receiver, for 69 yards. The Vikings’ defense was missing several starters in the secondary as cornerback Trae Waynes and safety Andrew Sendejo did not dress.
