Vikings picked a really bad time to forget how to stop the run

The Viking Age's Luke Norris argues that the Minnesota Vikings have developed severe issues stopping the run at a critical stretch of the 2026 season. After falling 19-15 to the Detroit Lions, the Vikings suffered their first loss of the year while surrendering 230 rushing yards. The performance followed a Week 7 matchup where they allowed 154 rushing yards to the Indianapolis Colts, bringing their two-game average to 192 yards conceded on the ground.

Norris highlights that opponents have found success using heavier multi-tight-end packages against defensive coordinator Brian Flores' unit. The writer warns that defensive adjustments are urgently needed, as Minnesota's upcoming four-game schedule features elite rushing attacks and running backs, including James Cook and Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, Josh Jacobs, Christian McCaffrey, and Bijan Robinson.