From CBS Sports · · 1m 30s
Vikings Blitz Defense Leads NFL Power Rankings
Minnesota Vikings' aggressive blitz defense ranks top 4 in NFL power rankings after 3-0 start.
In brief
Minnesota Vikings' aggressive blitz defense ranks top 4 in NFL power rankings after 3-0 start. Minnesota Vikings lead NFL power rankings with 3-0 record fueled by 73-78% blitz rate and 14 sacks. Originally reported by CBS Sports.
Vikings Defense Philosophy
Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores calls defense with a blitz philosophy of 73-78% passing plays.
“Blitz, blitz, and blitz some more.”
Vikings Blitz Effectiveness
The Vikings lead the league in sacks with 14 and confuse quarterbacks to the point passers see ghosts.
“They are a zone-blitz unit that shows a ton of looks that confuse offensive lines and quarterbacks.”
Vikings Sack Mayfield
The Vikings registered six sacks of Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield in their 23-16 victory.
“They made the Tampa Bay offensive line look bad.”
Vikings 3-0 Record
The Vikings are 3-0 because their defense forces quarterbacks to throw under 168 yards per game.
“Their quarterbacks haven't thrown for over 168 yards in a game because they haven't needed it.”
Vikings Power Ranking
Minnesota is up to No. 4 in my Power Rankings as Brian Flores continues to show off his defensive mind.
“If the offense, with Kyler Murray back under center, can get some flow in the passing game, this is going to be a tough team to beat week in and week out.”
Bills Move to Top
The Buffalo Bills move to the top of my rankings after the Seattle Seahawks lost to the Washington Commanders.
“Buffalo beat the Los Angeles Chargers despite turning the ball over five times.”
Five Undefeated Teams
Five undefeated teams remain: Buffalo, San Francisco, Kansas City, Minnesota and the Las Vegas Raiders.
“The Raiders are the real surprise of the group as Kirk Cousins has led them to a fast start.”
Raiders' Surprise Start
The Las Vegas Raiders are 3-0 with Kirk Cousins leading them to a fast start.
“Who saw them at 3-0? I didn't.”
Miami Stays Bottom
Miami stays at the bottom of the rankings despite the Tennessee Titans pushing them hard.
“The Titans' offense continues to struggle with Cam Ward.”
Biggest Movers
The Steelers, Bengals, and Bills are among the biggest movers in the NFL power rankings.
“The Bills move to the top spot of my rankings after the Seattle Seahawks lost to the Washington Commanders.”
The big picture
Minnesota Vikings lead NFL power rankings with 3-0 record fueled by 73-78% blitz rate and 14 sacks.
