Minnesota Vikings: Turner and Edwards prepare for Seahawks

Aug 12, 2016; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Joel Stave (2) looks to pass in the second half against the Cincinnati Bengals in a preseason NFL football game at Paul Brown Stadium. The Vikings won 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 12, 2016; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Joel Stave (2) looks to pass in the second half against the Cincinnati Bengals in a preseason NFL football game at Paul Brown Stadium. The Vikings won 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Minnesota Vikings’ coordinators took to the podium to discuss a multitude of topics after opening up the preseason with a victory over the Bengals.

Look for Head Coach Mike Zimmer to increase both starting units playing time as the Minnesota Vikings preseason progresses. We should get a much clearer picture of how this team will look over the next few weeks..

Here are some highlights of what Norv Turner and George Edwards had to say before heading to Seattle.

Offense

Considering this was only the first preseason game of the season nobody expected any major fireworks, Norv Turner included.

  • Norv talked about the right tackle position still being wide open. Andre Smith struggled against his old team and was subsequently demoted to second string. T.J. Clemmings will get a longer look Thursday night versus the Seahawks.
  • Nick Easton‘s solid play recently drew attention from Turner. Easton appears to be adjusting well to Norv’s system, which has led to solid performances. Turner specifically referenced Easton’s good leverage and hard-working mentality.
  • Turner talked about the importance of getting off to a quicker start on offense. Teddy Bridgewater and Company only had three snaps during the entire first quarter.

Defense

The always tight lipped George Edwards was vague answering questions. He did open up about a few of his players who have made solid progress thus far.

Jayron Kearse is consistently getting better according to Edwards. Having a better understanding has helped Kearse play faster. Edwards also liked how Kearse is learning quickly from his mistakes.

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  • Xavier Rhodes is getting his hand’s on the ball more as of late. Xavier’s interception totals will climb in 2016. Edwards attributes Rhodes high level of play on being more familiar with the system.
  • Shamar Stephen drew praise from Edwards. Being able to play both the three technique and nose tackle position gives the Minnesota Vikings some versatility along the defensive line. Edwards stated that Stephen’ has worked his tail off to come back from an injury, doing everything Minnesota has asked out of him.
  • Edwards was asked about the defense allowing a ton of yards to opposing offenses, then stiffening up when opponents got into the red zone. He said they’re not doing it, “on purpose.” Referencing that his defense always plays with the same amount of intensity, no matter where they are located on the field.

    Next: Teddy Bridgewater primed to lead Vikings to Super Bowl

    The Minnesota Vikings will try to improve to 2-0 against the Seahawks Thursday night. Lets see if the Vikes can get some preseason payback for a heart-breaking playoff loss.