The Minnesota Vikings may have lost six of their last seven games, but their defense still has a chance to go down as the best since the 1970s.
According to a metric created by Pro Football Reference, the 2016 Vikings are seventh best in franchise history in points allowed below league average. All six of the team’s best defenses in this stat, which makes it easier to factor in era, came between 1969 and 1975. The Vikings are allowing 5.3 points per game less than the NFL average, up from 4.7 last season, which ranks eighth in the team’s history.
Mike Zimmer’s defense sits second in the NFL in points allowed, trailing only the Seattle Seahawks, and third in total yards allowed. The Vikings’ passing defense has been especially impressive. Opposing quarterbacks have a 75.7 rating, 58.3% completion and are averaging 6.2 yards per attempt. They only rank behind the Denver Broncos in all three categories. The Vikings also have the third most sacks in the NFL and third most interceptions.
From an individual standpoint, edge rusher Danielle Hunter ranks fifth in sacks with 9.5 and Xavier Rhodes’ four interceptions are fourth best.
Pro Football Focus ranks seven defensive players within the top 30 at their position. Harrison Smith (7), Terrence Newman (9), Linval Joseph (14), Xavier Rhodes (20), Everson Griffen (20), Eric Kendricks (27), Danielle Hunter (29).
The post Vikings defense ranking among best in franchise history appeared first on 1500 ESPN Twin Cities.
Source:: 1500 ESPN Sportswire
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