Everson Griffen: NFC Defensive Player of the Month

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When fan-favorite Jared Allen decided to pack his bags and sign with the rival Chicago Bears, it was Everson Griffen’s opportunity to take the reigns at right defensive end. About Seven months later, Griffen has earned himself NFC Defensive Player of the Month for October. That’ll happen when you demonstrate aggressiveness, consistency and impressive speed en route to six sacks in the last four games.

“If you’re in the right position, making the right adjustments and doing the right stuff all the time, you’re going to make plays,” he said.

The Vikings had great confidence in Griffen this offseason, as they signed him to a five-year 42 million dollar deal. Although, the deal was largely based on performance with only 20 million guaranteed. It’s safe to say both parties are happy with the deal at this point.

“…he’s playing good football in general. Three downs, he’s playing awesome. He made some plays that guys simply can’t make.”

Griffen’s play is making life easier on the rest of the defense, including Veteran Linebacker Chad Greenway, who said, “His sacks are what everybody sees, but he’s playing good football in general. Three downs, he’s playing awesome. He made some plays that guys simply can’t make.” This is because of Everson’s speed. Offenses have had serious trouble running plays at him or around his end. This was evident on Sunday against the Buccaneers when Everson seemingly outran Bucs’ Running Back Doug Martin to the edge and ripped him down with one hand in the backfield.

Everson isn’t the only player on the Vikings defense who is showing out this year. Miraculously, Mike Zimmer has taken one of the worst defenses in Vikings history last season and made it one of the best in the league this year. Even with a struggling offense keeping them on the field, the defense is eighth in the league allowing 323.8 yards per game. They’re also second in the league in sacks with 25 and thirteenth in interceptions with seven.

After an exciting defensive victory where rookie Anthony Barr returned the game-winning touchdown in overtime, the Vikings look to get back to one game under .500 this Sunday at TCF Bank Stadium against the Redskins. This is going to be a much tougher test than the Buccaneers, but if the Vikings defense can continue to allow only 17.4 points per game (fourth best in league), I like our chances.

Oh and Everson, we love your sack dance. Can we see a repeat of this RGIII sack on Sunday?

Dec 15, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen (97) runs onto the field to play the Philadelphia Eagles at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings win 48-30. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

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