Sep 28, 2026 · 23 min
Vikings defense and special teams preserve unbeaten start
Vikings defense, special teams carry team to 23-16 win over Buccaneers for 3-0 start
Minnesota is 3-0, but the episode tests whether its defense and special teams can keep compensating for an offense still finding its rhythm.
- 1Six sacks and two interceptions let Minnesota survive an uneven offensive performance against Tampa Bay.
- 2Kyler Murray showed flashes in his first full game but needs more timing with Justin Jefferson and the receiving corps.
- 3Miles Price’s 86-yard punt return and Will Reichard’s range made special teams central to Minnesota’s road win.
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Miles Price’s 86-yard punt return came after he had repeatedly dreamed about scoring on a return.
The brief
Ben Goessling and Andrew E. Kramer assess Minnesota’s 23-16 road win over Tampa Bay, where six sacks, two interceptions and three field goals outweighed an inconsistent offense.
Kyler Murray’s first full game featured missed throws and timing issues, while Justin Jefferson’s ankle injury underscored how little the quarterback and receiver have played together.
The defense repeatedly disrupted Baker Mayfield, but penalties and replay controversies added friction to a game Minnesota could not control cleanly.
Miles Price’s 86-yard punt-return touchdown fulfilled a recurring dream and strengthened the case that Minnesota’s return game is becoming a genuine opponent concern.
Will Reichard’s long-range kicking ability and Matt Daniels’ preparation gave Minnesota late-game options, even as the offense remains unfinished.