There’s been a familiar theme in Vikings games this year.
Minnesota starts the game well, or maybe the team gets out to a lead in the second half. Then, the Vikings’ opponent starts to come back. The game — at least with the losses to the Cowboys and Titans — would then usually be finished when Minnesota’s final drive stalled out.
But not today. Kirk Cousins drove the Vikings down the field for a go-ahead score. Then, the Panthers missed a field goal to cement the win. In a season where the Vikings have been on the other side of plenty of close losses, this game has to feel good.
Cousins recently talked about the victory over the Panthers with reporters.
“I’m really encouraged by us finding a way to win, in spite of so many plays we’d like to have back,” Cousins said, via the Vikings’ Twitter account. “It’s great to start fast with our opening drive. I thought that was a great drive, converted some third downs. … It was great to find something in the late third and early fourth.”
Minnesota has notched its record to 5-6 now. The Vikings are also just one game back from the final wild card spot. Despite all the turmoil this team has dealt with in games, Minnesota still has a legitimate shot at the postseason.
“Just excited to come away from the stadium today with a little better feeling in our spirits,” Cousins said.