Top-5 Minnesota Vikings of 2014

Dec 21, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Minnesota Vikings free safety

(22) prior to the game against the Miami Dolphins at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports

#1: Harrison Smith

It must be nice for Mike Zimmer. Whether he puts Harrison Smith at strong safety or free safety, he’s going to get solid play. As constant as the leaves falling and the seasons changing, Smith had another solid year. His ability to make big plays was just as important as his ability to avoid mistakes. Did you notice not many teams were able to connect on deep balls this year? Harrison had a whole lot to do with that.

The biggest pro bowl snub on the Vikings roster, Smith ended up with 5 interceptions and 3 sacks. No other player in the league had over 3 of each. He also forced a fumble and returned an interception for a touchdown.

Harrison took it in stride, however.

“It doesn’t really matter,” he said. “That’s not the point of the season anyway. I’d rather be playing for a playoff game right now than worrying about that stuff. It doesn’t really change what I did on the field.”

GAME OF THE YEAR: Smith started the year off with a bang against the Rams in week 1. He housed an 81-yard interception return for a touchdown AND registered a sack. Aside from that, he defended 1 pass and made 2 tackles.

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