Subscribe
Follow Us
The Minnesota Vikings gave the Seattle Seahawks trouble from the start as they fought their way to an impressive 30-17 win on Sunday. Seattle had no answers for Minnesota, which bodes well for the Vikings' chances in the NFC North. It's time to continue our NFL takeaways series with a Vikings Week 3 takeaway.
Minnesota's defense was impressive after bottling up Russell Wilson throughout most of the day. If the defense can maintain this type of consistency while the offense continues to impress, the Vikings will be a problem down the stretch.
Justin Jefferson had a big game and showed off his skills. He's incredibly talented and paved the way to help his team win on Sunday. Additionally, Minnesota was without Dalvin Cook, but it didn't matter as Alexander Mattison filled the starting role nicely. On top of that, Kirk Cousins has been phenomenal so far and looked like the best quarterback on the field on Sunday. With that said, here are three Vikings Week 3 takeaways in their game against the Seahawks.
*Watch NFL games LIVE with fuboTV (Click for free trial)*
Vikings Week 3 Takeaways
3. Justin Jefferson reminded everyone that he's one of the best young receivers in the league
After having two below-average games to start the season, Justin Jefferson came alive with a big performance against the Seahawks. With nine receptions for 118 yards and one touchdown, Jefferson reminded everyone just how good he is.
This is likely the first of many great games the Vikings young receiver will have this year. He took advantage of Seattle's weak secondary and gave his team a huge boost in the passing game. We should see Jefferson continue playing like this, as he's the top wideout on the Vikings roster.
Article Continues Below
2. Alexander Mattison stepped up to replace Dalvin Cook
Dalvin Cook fell to injury, which was worrisome heading into the game. However, Alexander Mattison stepped up and provided consistency, ending the day with 26 carries and 112 yards. He also helped in the passing game, reeling in six receptions for 59 yards. Mattison played like a true starting running back in this matchup, which was what the Vikings needed with Cook absent.
Mattison has been a solid backup for the Vikings and tends to play well when his number is called. This is a run-first offense, so having someone who can fill in for Dalvin Cook was huge for the Vikings on Sunday. Hopefully, Cook returns to the lineup for Week 4, but Mattison's production should not go unnoticed.
1. Kirk Cousins is the real deal
Say what your want about Kirk Cousins, but the guy has been phenomenal this year. He's playing like an elite quarterback right now and is the perfect guy for the offensive scheme. Cousins puts the ball where it needs to be and delivers for his team. He does everything the Vikings ask for and more. With 323 yards and three touchdowns and going 30/38 on pass attempts, it's safe to say Kirk Cousins was the better quarterback in this matchup.
There's no reason to believe that Cousins will slow down anytime soon. He has a solid offensive line protecting him, a great run game to aid him, and a top-notch wide receiver duo. He also seems to be spreading the ball out a bit more, as KJ Osborn and Tyler Conklin have been productive as well. Keep an eye on Kirk Cousins and the Vikings, as they are a darkhorse playoff candidate right now.
