New England Patriots: Four Takeaways From Win Over Minnesota Vikings
By Cyrus Geller
Sep 14, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Matt Cassel (16) is sacked by New England Patriots defensive end Rob Ninkovich (50) during the fourth quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Vikings 30-7. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
After putting forth a disappointing performance in their season opener, the New England Patriots bounced back in a big way today. They fell behind early, giving up a quick touchdown to start the game, but it was all Patriots after that, as they trounced the Vikings by a score of 30-7.
The flash of this matchup was diminished a bit after Minnesota announced that running back Adrian Peterson would not be playing in this one, but it made getting this win much easier for the Pats, particularly the defense, who absolutely dominated Minnesota from start to finish. And let’s remember, this was all without Brandon Browner, Jamie Collins, and Alfonzo Dennard, who were inactive due to injuries, or in Browner’s case, suspension.
Here are my four biggest takeaways from New England’s first win of the year: