The Vikings have to solve the turnover problem
The Minnesota Vikings were their own worst enemy once again on Thursday Night Football. The Viking turned the ball over four times, all four by fumble, and three of those were in the first half. The Vikings are currently -6 in turnover differential through two weeks. The fact that the team has lost both games […]
The Minnesota Vikings were their own worst enemy once again on Thursday Night Football.
The Viking turned the ball over four times, all four by fumble, and three of those were in the first half. The Vikings are currently -6 in turnover differential through two weeks.
The fact that the team has lost both games by a combined nine points just makes this even more frustrating. If the team were getting blown out and committing these turnovers, then we could come to the conclusion that the team just isn't very good. Instead, the team would very likely be 2-0 if not for these costly mistakes.
In the opener against the Buccaneers, Kirk Cousins was responsible for all three turnovers (1 INT, 2 fumbles). On Thursday, however, several players got involved, including the great Justin Jefferson.
Justin Jefferson's fumble out of the end zone killed a promising Vikings drive that should've ended in points. Instead, a touchback was ruled and the Eagles gained possession. While this rule may be stupid, it's still a rule and Jefferson has to hold on to the ball here.
Alexander Mattison, Brandon Powell, and Cousins also lost a fumble in the game. You just can't beat NFL teams when you turn the ball over this frequently.
Another problem is the lack of turnovers that the Vikings are forcing. Somehow, the defense was unable to force a single turnover in Week One and a Theo Jackson INT was the only one forced on Thursday.
Creating turnovers is especially important when your offense can't stop giving the ball away.
It's frustrating when you could easily be 2-0, but instead, you're sitting at 0-2 because of self-inflicted wounds. A silver lining is that the team has shown they can compete with anybody, so if the turnovers get under control, this team will win some games.
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Featured image via © Eric Hartline | 2023 Sep 14
