Despite their offensive woes, the Minnesota Vikings have stayed undefeated in six games because of their defensive brilliance.
Defensive coordinator Brian Flores has turned the Vikings into a defensive machine, allowing only 12.3 points, the fewest in the NFL, and 252.8 total yards, the second-fewest in the league behind the Seattle Seahawks.
Flores' unpredictable approach has prevented opponents from settling into a rhythm. The Vikings constantly change their looks, disguise coverages, and send pressure from different angles.
ESPN's Mina Kimes had a perfect analogy for Minnesota.
“Facing the Vikings is like riding a roller coaster that does so many loops. When it slows down, you're still white-knuckling,” said Kimes.
The Vikings benefit from versatile enforcers, including linebackers Blake Cashman, Dallas Turner, and Andrew Van Ginkel, defensive lineman Jalen Redmond, and cornerback Isaiah Rodgers. They understand Flores' unique system and can adjust on the fly, allowing Minnesota to attack weaknesses as they emerge.
The Vikings have a blitz rate of 70%, which is No.1 in the NFL and their highest since 2006. They are also the best squad in stopping third-down plays.
“Essentially, they kind of inverted the way the offense thinks about pressure. Typically, you're expecting a four-man rush, and then the blitz can take you by surprise. With Minnesota, it's the opposite. You're expecting a blitz on literally every down, so the four-man rush takes you by surprise,” added Kimes.
Coach Kevin O'Connell insisted that the offensive issues will be fixed. But for now, the defensive unit will hold down the fort for Minnesota.
The Vikings will try to remain unblemished against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on Sunday.