The Vikings called corner attacks all day, with Akayleb Evans putting pressure on Kenny Pickett in the second quarter, and Fabian Moreau also putting pressure on Pickett in the second quarter.
4. The Vikings’ performance in the game is impressive again.
The regular season will tell, but the Vikings seem committed to the idea of building a more productive running game through the frequent use of heavy personnel and downhill running. We saw that again Saturday, as Myles Gaskin carried the ball 13 times for 61 yards in the first half and the Vikings ran 33 times for 119 yards overall. Nickeal Harry, who has moved from wide receiver to tight end, could join the roster with TJ Hockenson recovering from a torn ACL and Robert Tonyan still battling back spasms. He had carries of 24 and 14 yards on Saturday, but he also gives the Vikings another physical presence on the edge of the line of scrimmage. Trent Sherfield, another strong run-blocking receiver, could join the team, and the Vikings are expected to use linebacker C.J. Hamm more. Again, things could change, but the team’s approach in the preseason seems to indicate its intent.
(Matt Roark/Associated Press)
5. Richard’s leg strength shines through.
Beginner in kicking Will Richard He’s shown during training camp that he can shoot from just about anywhere, and on Saturday the Vikings sent him out for a 57-yard shot. While his kick was a little strong, it went over the crossbar before it had enough room to travel.
“For him to go out there and hit a 57-yard shot like it’s nothing, I’m trying to remember the last time I saw him miss a shot,” O’Connell said. “He’s been so consistent.”
Have the Vikings found the answer to the free kick question? The answer will come from more free kicks, but Richard couldn’t have started the game any better.
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