Minnesota Vikings: Five things we learned in the win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

5. Dalvin Cook is the real deal.

Last, but not least, Dalvin Cook is simply the real deal. Through three games, the second round pick set a Vikings rookie record with 288 rushing yards through his first three games in the NFL. A record that was previously held by…. Adrian Peterson (271).

No one is ready to say he’s better than Peterson, but the potential is clearly there.

Unlike Peterson, Cook has the makings of a complete back, one that can play on all three downs given his rushing, pass catching and blocking abilities. This helps the team in so many ways since opposing defenses can’t just assume that Cook is on the field to the run ball. Additionally, Cook is the perfect back for an offense that likes to run out of the shotgun, although he is effective with quarterback under center too.

Overall, he’s been everything that the Vikings could have hoped for and more. In the process, he’s leading the NFL in rushing through three games. Basically, there’s plenty to love about the Vikings’ new franchise back.

Next: Four things the Wolves need for success

The Vikings look to build on the positive results of last week’s game to a division showdown against the Detroit Lions on Sunday at home. This time around, the Vikings hope to take care of business at U.S. Bank Stadium after losing to the Lions in a devastating overtime loss last season. Check back with Sporting Sota for a preview of the game later in the week!