Viktor
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- Mar 19, 2019
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Q4, 1:41 remaining — Second-and-4 at the Minnesota 46
That final detail opens up options for Offensive Coordinator Gary Kubiak and Cousins on the following play. Carolina again rushes just three players, and the quarterback works the middle of the field to Kyle Rudolph to cross midfield for a new set of downs.
Rudolph reaches the line to gain but sets up shop nearly 5 yards in front of Jermaine Carter, Jr., giving Cousins an open target before the linebacker can close on Rudolph.
No route is very deep on the play, which allows Minnesota to efficiently return to the line of scrimmage for the next play.
Q4, 1:24 remaining — First-and-10 at the Carolina 47
Carolina again rushes three, and the Vikings have five players run routes. Beebe, Rudolph and Jefferson work the middle of the field. Bisi Johnson is on the left sideline, and tight end Tyler Conklin is on the right.
Cousins opts for Beebe working from the left slot after Rudolph pulls two defenders toward the middle of the field.
Cornerback Rasul Douglas, who shifts from covering Jefferson, is unable to get to Beebe in time.
Q4, 1:03 remaining — First-and-10 at the Carolina 35
Facing a three-man rush for the fourth consecutive play, the Vikings go more vertical with their routes by Johnson, Rudolph, Beebe and Jefferson. Conklin provides a safety valve underneath.
Rudolph continues past the zone of the Panthers linebackers (after illegal contact by Carter), and Cousins has time to find the 6-foot-6 Rudolph at the 16. The tight end gains another 6 yards after securing the football. The 25-yarder is the longest play of the day for the Vikings.