MINNESOTA
Storyline of the week
Who wants to be the backup? The Vikings did not score an offensive touchdown during the first two weeks of the preseason. Minnesota got its first touchdown in Week 2 when linebacker Troy Dye returned an interception for the score against the Colts. However, the Minnesota offense did not look as good as the defense. QBs Jake Browning and Kellen Mond both struggled to create anything while leading drives. Neither has played well enough to warrant taking the backup QB spot just yet. The running game also stalled with 71 yards after gaining 156 the game before.
Rookie watch
Ihmir Smith-Marsette, a 2021 fifthround draft pick, was called out by Vikings coach Mike Zimmer earlier this offseason. Zimmer said that if SmithMarsette wants to make the team, special teams is part of his job description. The rookie had a good showing on special teams against the Indianapolis Colts. He returned a kickoff 41 yards. He also had a 17-yard punt return. The Vikings were horrendous in the return game a season ago yet Smith-Marsette has emerged as a candidate who could change that.
– Jack White, Vikings Wire