What has really impressed me the last two weeks is the way the Vikings have clearly been a more physical team than their opponents, on both offense and defense. They've looked well-prepared in both games and they appear to be a team that's gaining confidence quickly.
This wasn't the prettiest win you'll ever see but in the end, that doesn't matter at all. A win is a win. The defense and special teams carried the day today. Harvin and Sherels both delivered great returns for scores and the defense contained one of the more high-powered passing games in the NFL. They got a little too soft on the Lions TD drive but otherwise, they were quite good.
I haven't read 99% of the game thread but I'm guessing there were plenty of complaints about the offense. They've had and will have better games but again, they were physical today. The o-line controlled the line of scrimmage most of the game, specially in the running game, and Peterson was a beast. He gained a ton of yardage after contact and is looking stronger with each passing week. Ponder made good decisions with the ball and Simpson was definitely a factor in his first game with the team.
I think field position may have influenced the offensive strategy and point production a bit. I'm not sure what the Vikes average starting field position was but I think the majority of their drives started inside their own 20, if not their own 15.
There's room for improvement all around but considering the low expectations for the Vikings this year, I can't be anything but thrilled with the win and a 3-1 start!
I'd give game balls to Harvin, Sherels, Peterson and (I'm so happy to say this) the safeties. Smith and Sanford both made big plays today and Sanford, in particular, had an excellent game.
There were some things I saw that I didn't like but overall, there was a lot to enjoy about this one and I'm in way too good of a mood after this win to dwell on the flaws in the Vikings performance. 3-1!
