The Minnesota Vikings showcased resilience and determination in their 23-13 victory over the Tennessee Titans, overcoming their own mistakes and capitalizing on a series of penalties called against their opponents. While the Vikings committed errors, the referees’ decisions played a pivotal role in shaping the game’s outcome, as 13 penalties amounting to 91 yards were assessed against the Titans. Notable calls, such as a penalty on a failed fourth-and-goal attempt that resulted in a Vikings touchdown and the nullification of a 51-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Ridley due to an illegal formation, significantly influenced the game’s momentum.
Key to the Vikings’ success were contributions from players who have made strides since last week and impactful offseason acquisitions orchestrated by General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. These strategic moves have transformed the Vikings into legitimate contenders, putting Adofo-Mensah in the spotlight as a top candidate for Executive of the Year.
Adofo-Mensah’s Free Agent Signings Shine
The Vikings’ impressive 8-2 start to the season owes much to the contributions of free agents signed under Adofo-Mensah’s leadership. Quarterback Sam Darnold, who struggled against the Jacksonville Jaguars in the previous week, delivered a stellar performance against the Titans. Darnold completed 20 of 32 passes for 246 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing improved decision-making and pocket awareness. After a shaky outing where he nearly threw five interceptions (three officially), Darnold avoided turnovers entirely against the Titans. His ability to evade pressure and create plays outside the pocket proved instrumental in keeping the Vikings’ playoff hopes alive.
On the defensive side, additions to the front seven have been game-changers. Jonathan Greenard has emerged as one of the team’s standout players, excelling in both pass rushing and run defense. Entering the week tied for third in quarterback pressures with 48 (per Pro Football Focus), Greenard has consistently disrupted opposing offenses. Similarly, Andrew Van Ginkel has been pivotal in the Vikings’ defensive schemes, particularly in simulated pressures and coverage disguises. Against the Titans, Van Ginkel delivered back-to-back sacks on Will Levis to halt a key drive late in the first half.
Blake Cashman, another critical acquisition, has brought versatility to the Vikings’ defense. His ability to blitz, stop the run, and drop into coverage has been instrumental in the unit’s recent success. Cashman’s return from injury last week against Jacksonville was a turning point for the defense, adding stability and dynamic playmaking.
A Blueprint for Long-Term Success
Adofo-Mensah’s strategy has positioned the Vikings for both immediate and sustained success. By making shrewd free-agent signings and drafting players who can contribute now and in the future, he has accelerated the team’s timeline for competing in a Super Bowl window. Despite carrying over $68 million in dead salary cap space, Adofo-Mensah has managed to clean up financial inefficiencies while steering the team to an impressive 27-16 regular-season record in his first two-and-a-half years as general manager.
The Vikings’ 8-2 record not only secures them a strong hold on a wild card spot but also keeps them in contention for a division title. Adofo-Mensah’s ability to balance short-term gains with long-term flexibility has been one of the most impressive managerial feats in the NFL. His work has revitalized the Vikings’ roster, fostering optimism for sustained competitiveness and earning him well-deserved recognition as a potential Executive of the Year.
