Vikings’ running game in danger of being NFL’s most futile since 1946 Lions
The Vikings’ futility in the running game this season could be historic.
Through six games, Minnesota is averaging a paltry 2.6 yards per carry. That is on pace to be the lowest figure in the NFL since the 1946 Detroit Lions averaged just 1.7 yards per attempt.
Those Lions, led by Camp Wilson’s 207 rushing yards, went 1-10. Entering Monday’s game at Chicago, the Vikings are 5-1 thanks to a dominant defense and a solid passing game led by Sam Bradford, although he faltered in last weekend’s 21-10 loss at Philadelphia.
No NFL team has averaged less than 3 yards per carry since the 1994 New England Patriots finished at 2.8. Rounded to the next decimal, the Vikings are averaging 2.61, so a better performance Monday might take them past the 1953 New York Giants, who averaged 2.64.
“It’s negative yards plays, that brings your average down,’’ Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said Saturday. “It is what is is. I can’t change it. It’s 2.6. That’s what it is. So we’ll just keep trying to do better.’’