Minnesota Vikings Preseason Game vs. Seattle Review

In a redemption preseason game against Seattle, the Minnesota Vikings come out with the win late in the fourth quarter.

Coming into last nights preseason game, the Minnesota Vikings could have nothing on their mind but last season’s playoff loss.

Many were excited to watch third year quarterback Teddy Bridgewater playing against the stout Seattle defense. When the game started most were surprised that Bridgewater was suited up but inactive for the game.

After the game Head Coach Mike Zimmer was asked many questions about the reasoning for sitting Bridgewater. Some thought it could be an injury, although none were originally reported. Some thought it could be a disciplinary act.

Zimmer replied saying that it was his choice to sit Bridgewater, leaving media folks with no idea why.

Earlier this afternoon the news came out that Bridgewater had a sore shoulder and that is why he was inactive for the game.

The Minnesota Vikings defensive line started the game tearing through the Seattle offensive line. In the first half, they put up four sacks on Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson.

https://twitter.com/NFL/status/766511296791453696

Although middle linebacker Eric Kendricks and defensive tackle Shariff Floyd were inactive, other Vikings stepped up. Shamar Stephens has not missed a beat in the absence of Floyd.

Vikings running back Jerrick McKinnon scored the first touchdown, putting the team ahead 6-0. Then Matt Asiata caught a 10 yard pass to convert the 2 point conversion to make the score 8-0.

A few drives later, Vikings kicker Blair Walsh was in a familiar situation. He was up to kick a 27 yard field goal against Seattle, the same distance he missed from in the playoff loss. Thankfully, Walsh put it through the uprights, although it was heading left on the way through.

Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes left the game later after pulling his hamstring. It will be interesting to see which direction the team goes if he misses significant time.

Backup quarterback Shaun Hill connected with tight end Kyle Rudolph on two nice plays that in turn put the Vikings in great field position. Rudolph looks to live up to the hype he has had his whole career.

Wide out Adam Thielen had another good outing, leading the team in their receiving categories with 4 receptions for 61 yards. Thielen continues to show his worth to the team as more than a special teams guy.

Seattle running back Troymaine Pope ran in a touchdown to make the game 6-11. They then converted their 2 point conversion.

Seattle kicker Steven Hauschka converted a 49 yard field goal to tie the game 11-11 with 5:46 left in the fourth quarter.

The next drive Blair Walsh had a chance to take back the lead with a 47 yard field goal. His attempt was wide left, as the Seattle crowd cheered. We must hope that Walsh’s confidence is not shaken.

On the next drive, Vikings cornerback/return man Marcus Sherels intercepted a pass from Trevon Boykin and took it to the house from 53 yards out.

This must have been a great feeling for Sherels, as he had just returned from personal time off as his brother had a serious surgery. Seemly always on the roster bubble, Sherels has serious value to this team and this play probably cemented his roster spot.

Next: Treadwell Offensive Rookie of the Year Candidate?

Overall the Minnesota Vikings looked good in the game, and are on a 2-0 start to the preseason. Seattle is always a good test as they have been known for having a top tier defense.