4 Vikings Takeaways from The Opening Preseason Game
Christian Stoinev
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On Sunday afternoon, I was able to attend the Vikings preseason opener in Las Vegas as the Vikings took on the Raiders. Here are 4 takeaways from the first preseason game.
1) Kellen Mond Impressed
While Sean Mannion struggled, Kellen Mond seemed to breakthrough. Mond finished 9/14 for 119 yards and two perfect touchdown throws to Albert Wilson. The first was a dart in traffic and the second was a beautiful ball in the corner of the end zone. Mond also showed a command of the huddle and scrambling ability when needed. At the very least, he showed promise, which could be enough for the sophomore to earn the QB2 job.
2) The Vikings have a Good RB Problem
Alexander Mattison has been the backup to Dalvin Cook for the past three seasons. However, the Vikings had two solid performances from 2nd year RB Kene Nwangwu and rookie RB Ty Chandler. Considering Mattison is in the last season of his four-year deal, the Vikes may look to move him in a trade. Mattison has been productive with the Vikings in his three seasons. With the team moving to a more pass friendly offense, Nwangwu and Chandler may be better fits. Plus, it helps that Nwangwu was pretty good at returning kicks last season. It’ll be an interesting battle to watch moving forward through the rest of the preseason.
3) Harrison Phillips Should Be a Difference Maker
One of the Vikings top offseason moves was signing the former Buffalo Bills defensive lineman, Harrison Phillips. The move seemed like a good one given that Minnesota’s underperforming run defense needed improvement. After today, it seems solidified that Phillips will be a huge boost to the defense. In the first drive alone, Phillips racked up two tackles and a sack. In his limited time on the field, he was a difference maker and should only help the defensive ends rush the passer, and, in turn, they should be able to free him up, as well. The defensive front should be in good shape this season.
4) Lewis Cine is a Ball Hawk
The Vikings first-round draft pick only finished with one tackle, but watching this game live you can tell that the kid has an instinct for the football. It seemed as though he was either involved or around every play on defense. Currently projected to be the third safety behind Harrison Smith and Cam Bynum, I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up moving his way up as the starting safety alongside Smith. I really liked what I saw from Cine, and can only imagine with more starters and veterans around him, it’ll only free him up to make more plays.
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