This is a Vikings offense that struggled earlier in the year. Minnesota was one-dimensional and Kirk Cousins had some of his worst games in a Vikings uniform.
The offense found its stride later in the year. Same goes for the defense.
Once a weak spot of the Vikings, the defensive unit improved in the pass rush and eased the pressure of their young defensive back corps.
Minnesota has strung together important victories to get back into the playoff conversation, but the team still has its share of sloppiness in certain phases of the game.
The Buccaneers put those weak spots on display Sunday in Tampa Bay. In what was the Vikings’ most important game up until this point, kicker Dan Bailey missed three field goals and one extra point, Minnesota had its usual costly turnovers and the Buccaneers took advantage of good field position to win.