NFL1 hour ago2 minute read

Undefeated Vikings Win Again Despite Offense Struggles

The Minnesota Vikings improved to 6-0 with a 16-10 win over the Colts, but their offense continues to struggle.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

Defense leads Minnesota to 6-0

The Minnesota Vikings moved to 6-0 on Sunday after coming from behind to beat the Indianapolis Colts 16-10. Minnesota holds the best record in the NFC, but the victory revealed ongoing issues on offense.

The Vikings have relied heavily on the top defense in the league and strong special teams. Their offense has scored only 125 points, which is the second lowest total for a 6-0 team since 1940. Their 10 touchdowns are the fewest by an undefeated team through six games since the 1933 Chicago Bears.

Murray sparks fourth quarter rally

Minnesota struggled to move the ball for most of the game. Before late in the third quarter, the offense had managed just 128 total yards and two field goals from Will Reichard. This came after a Week 5 win over the New Orleans Saints by 23-13 where the team produced 364 total yards.

Quarterback Kyler Murray turned things around with a 35 yard scramble on third down on the final play of the third quarter. On the very next play, Murray threw a 5 yard touchdown pass to T.J. Hockenson to give Minnesota a 13-10 lead.

Coach Kevin O'Connell noted several missed chances. Murray threw two incomplete passes toward Justin Jefferson, and a potential touchdown pass went off the fingertips of Jauan Jennings. Late penalties on left tackle Christian Darrisaw and center Blake Brandel also slowed down drives.

Difficult schedule ahead

Justin Jefferson explained that the team was working off rust following their bye week. Murray added that he expects the offense to keep improving.

Time is running short for the offense to make progress. Four of the first six teams Minnesota defeated currently have losing records, and the schedule is about to get much harder.

The Vikings next four games are against the Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills, Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers. Only the game against Buffalo will be played at U.S. Bank Stadium.

What it means for the next game

Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions (NFL, Sun, 01 Nov): Detroit Lions win 53%, Minnesota Vikings win 47%; projected score Detroit Lions 24, Minnesota Vikings 21. Our safest pick: Under 53.5 points.