Vikings Podcast: Titans Takeaways

The winless streak continues. Kevin O’Connell has been impressive since taking over as the head coach, but that reality hasn’t extended to the win/loss column during the preseason. The youthful coach is 0-5.

On the latest episode of Notes from the North — a Vikings podcast — Sizzlin’ Sam and I return to discuss the loss to the Tennessee Titans. The 24-16 score isn’t particularly inspiring, but there are some positive takeaways amidst all of the sloppy play that sometimes characterizes the preseason.

Vikings Podcast: 08.21.2023

Sizzlin’ Sam is a man of few words, but he always offers a summary of what gets discussed on the podcast. Take a look: “On this week’s episode of Notes from the North, Kyle and Sam discuss the takeaways from the Vikings second preseason game, highlighting individuals who caught our attention, and what this means for some position battles. They also talk about areas of concern, and what the Vikings can and may do before the August 29th date.”

Couldn’t have said it better myself.

NFL: Preseason-Minnesota Vikings at Seattle Seahawks
Aug 10, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Jaren Hall (16) passes the ball over Seattle Seahawks offensive tackle Abraham Lucas (72) during the second half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Both of us were impressed with Jaren Hall. The 5th-round rookie finished with some humdrum stats (4/7 for 49 yards) but the game itself was far more impressive than the stat sheet. Overall, Hall looked for more poised and demonstrated great touch on even the passes that weren’t completed.

Greg Joseph had a perfect day at the office. Whenever a kicker drills every kick, Vikings fans are going to be pleased. Lots of bad memories means Minnesota fans perpetually live with a sense of dread when a kicker steps onto the field. Ideally, Joseph will be able to assuage those concerns as the year progresses (especially since he won the kicking job).

The State of the Vikings: Week 16
Dec 17, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings place kicker Greg Joseph. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports.

Oh, and one more thing. NaJee Thompson is a monster on special teams. The rookie corner is going to make the roster.

Next up on the schedule is the Cardinals from Arizona. Jonathan Gannon’s squad will travel to Minnesota early, participating in a pair of joint practices prior to next weekend’s 3rd and final preseason game. Look for plenty of news this week concerning who has been playing well and not as well in these practices.

NFL: Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings
Oct 30, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Isaiah Simmons (9) strips Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) in the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Folks who are into Vikings podcasts or think they’d like to get into Vikings podcasts should feel free to give Notes from the North a shot. Hop over to iTunes, Spotify, or Podbean. My understanding is that you don’t need an account at these spots. Just press play and enjoy the pod.

Enjoy the listening, Vikings fan.

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