Minnesota beat Miami 15-10 to move to 4-0, leaning on an aggressive defense and reliable kicking while its offense continues to struggle.
The Minnesota Vikings remained one of the NFL’s three unbeaten teams after a 15-10 win over the Miami Dolphins lifted them to 4-0. The record masks a significant weakness: after scoring 39 points in their opener, Minnesota has produced only one offensive touchdown across its last three games and gone 18 straight possessions without reaching the end zone, NBC News reported.
The defense coordinated by Brian Flores has carried much of the load. Minnesota has allowed four touchdowns through four games and is giving up a league-low 12.8 points per game, according to the source. The Vikings blitzed on 57% of opponents’ passing plays, nearly twice the rate of the next team, NBC reported. The pressure has generated disruption and helped cover for an offense that has struggled to finish drives.
Against Miami, kicker Will Reichard made five field goals. Quarterback Kyler Murray said afterward that the defense had “held it down” for the team again. Minnesota’s offense was penalized eight times, while left tackle Christian Darrisaw and left guard Donovan Jackson left with injuries. The team said Monday that Jackson’s injury would end his season. Star receiver Justin Jefferson also missed the game with an ankle injury.
Murray’s first season with Minnesota has yet to become the revival the team hoped for. Among 35 quarterbacks who had started at least two games, he ranked 30th in passer rating and was tied for last with one passing touchdown, NBC reported. The defense has recorded seven takeaways in four games. Minnesota also controlled possession late against Miami, keeping the ball for all but a minute of the fourth quarter.
Coach Kevin O’Connell welcomed the 4-0 start but said there was substantial work ahead, including turning more drives into touchdowns. The defensive performance and Reichard’s kicking have been enough to keep Minnesota unbeaten so far. The offense’s difficulty scoring, however, leaves little margin for error as the schedule continues.