Minnesota Vikings: Six observations from the Vikings opening loss

September 14, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback Marcus Sherels (35) picks up the football after a blocked field goal attempt by San Francisco 49ers kicker Phil Dawson (9, not pictured) as punter Bradley Pinion (5) chases during the first quarter at Levi

Need to capitalize on opportunities

As I mentioned in the opening, the Vikings blocked a field goal and recovered a muffed punt by the 49ers, but the Vikings did not take advantage of such opportunities. The simple fact of the matter is that if the Vikings want to be a playoff team they have to take advantage of these things. That’s what playoff teams do.

The Vikings and 49ers did technically tie in the turnovers category, but sometimes there are turnovers that aren’t box score turnovers like a blocked field goal. Especially a blocked field goal that has such a good return as the Vikings had last night needs to be taken advantage of.

I realize that I have overused the term ‘taken advantage of’, but it really is that simple. Those plays are gifts for the Vikings. It’s like getting a gift card and never using that gift card. The gifter just gave the company free money. The Vikings can’t let any team get away with anything for free.

Next: Get on the good foot!