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The Vikings' defense has been the straw that stirs the drink for this franchise over the past couple of seasons. While everyone focuses on the play of the quarterback, Justin Jefferson, and Kevin O'Connell, Brian Flores has quietly built one of the best defenses in the NFL.
Pressure is the key for this defense, and with so many new, young names being flexed into important roles, the preseason will be vital for them. Seeing how the likes of Jalen Redmond, Levi Drake Rodriguez, and Dallas Turner handle roles could dictate the entire Vikings season.
With that in mind, here are our three keys to the Vikings' defense against the Giants in their preseason opener.
The Vikings are going to be creative with their new defensive front after losing so many veterans this offseason. While the starters are not likely to play any meaningful time, younger players likely will. Seeing how Dallas Turner starts the game, how well Jalen Redmond and Levi Drake Rodriguez man the middle, and the depth behind the starters can rush the passer will be telling.
The Vikings' offense being given extra opportunities in 2026 will be pivotal to them staying in and pulling ahead in games. Against the Giants, they should have some chances to generate some turnovers and give both quarterbacks a healthy dose of reps to showcase themselves.
The Vikings need to improve their run defense in 2026. With running backs like Jahmyr Gibbs, D'Andre Swift, and Josh Jacobs in the division, they need to make this one of the best parts of their defense. While they won't be playing against anyone like them in the preseason, seeing how they scheme to defend the run will still matter and set the tone for the regular season.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Keys for the Vikings' defense in their preseason opener vs. the Giants
Continue reading...
Pressure is the key for this defense, and with so many new, young names being flexed into important roles, the preseason will be vital for them. Seeing how the likes of Jalen Redmond, Levi Drake Rodriguez, and Dallas Turner handle roles could dictate the entire Vikings season.
With that in mind, here are our three keys to the Vikings' defense against the Giants in their preseason opener.
1) Create pressure
The Vikings are going to be creative with their new defensive front after losing so many veterans this offseason. While the starters are not likely to play any meaningful time, younger players likely will. Seeing how Dallas Turner starts the game, how well Jalen Redmond and Levi Drake Rodriguez man the middle, and the depth behind the starters can rush the passer will be telling.
2) Force turnovers and more turnovers
The Vikings' offense being given extra opportunities in 2026 will be pivotal to them staying in and pulling ahead in games. Against the Giants, they should have some chances to generate some turnovers and give both quarterbacks a healthy dose of reps to showcase themselves.
3) Better run defense
The Vikings need to improve their run defense in 2026. With running backs like Jahmyr Gibbs, D'Andre Swift, and Josh Jacobs in the division, they need to make this one of the best parts of their defense. While they won't be playing against anyone like them in the preseason, seeing how they scheme to defend the run will still matter and set the tone for the regular season.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Keys for the Vikings' defense in their preseason opener vs. the Giants
Continue reading...
