Viktor
Well-known member
- Mar 19, 2019
- 2,552
- 0
Eyeing a defensive trio
It’s been quite clear this week that the Vikings are focused on three specific players on the Chargers defense.
Defensive ends Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram have combined for 16.0 sacks, while Vikings Heda Coach Mike Zimmer called safety Derwin James a “game-wrecker” on Wednesday.
A day later, there was still plenty of chatter about the trio from Kyle Rudolph and Vikings Offensive Coordinator Kevin Stefanski.
“For me, the three guys that jump off the page immediately are both edge rushers and then getting Derwin back is a huge lift for that defense,” Rudolph said. “Derwin was an All-Pro safety as a rookie, so he’s all over the field, flying around, making a ton of plays. They’re of that Seattle descendant, they bend and don’t break.
“We have our work cut out for us. You look back at all the close games they’ve lost, we talked about this a couple of weeks ago with Denver,” Rudolph added. “You look at records, and a lot of times they’re not indicative of how good a team is.”
Stefanski said of James: “Very physical player. He’s down around the line of scrimmage quite often. He can play the run like a linebacker. He can play the pass like a corner, so a physically gifted player. What’s really impressive about this player, is he plays really hard all the time. He’s flying around there, quintessential ball hawk and he’s got our attention.”
James missed the first 12 weeks of the season with a foot injury. Bosa has 10.5 sacks in 2019, while Ingram has 5.5.
The edge rushers made the Pro Bowl together in 2017.