Minnesota struggled to capitalize off good field position on Sunday.
The Vikings only went 2-of-5 in the red zone against the Rams in Week 16. Minnesota scored 23 points en route to a devastating loss, one that makes the team’s playoff hopes slim.
Vikings WR Justin Jefferson had some comments after the game:
“I think we should be more aggressive when we get down there, as soon as we get down there,” Jefferson said, per ESPN’s Courtney Cronin. “But, I’m not the one calling the plays. I’m just here to do my job and do what’s told to me. But, we can’t get down in the red zone that many.”
Jefferson also had comments pertaining to the energy of the team. He said that he can try to pick up the energy when there isn’t much, but “at the end of the day, I can’t go out and play for them,” Jefferson said, per Chris Tomasson of the Pioneer Press.
Here’s the thing: Jefferson is right. The Vikings have to do a better job of attacking opposing teams, especially when Minnesota has a shortened field. The team didn’t do that on Sunday and, ultimately, it cost them.
As for the energy, while that is a thing that’s hard to quantify, the Vikings did seem to look lackluster in their approach at times.
Yes, the Vikings can still possibly turn things around, but at 7-8, the team is on the outside looking in at the playoff window right now. Minnesota may have to make some major changes to the team for 2022 and beyond. It starts with the offense.