The Minnesota Vikings bounced back in a big way in Week 3 when they blew out the injury-riddled Cincinnati Bengals. To their credit, they also had some significant injuries they were dealing with, but it did not hold them back from beating the AFC North opponent by a score of 48-10.
As a result, the Vikings saw themselves get some extra respect in PFF’s Week 4 power rankings. After losing in embarrassing fashion in Week 2 to the Atlanta Falcons, they dropped to the 20th spot in the rankings. Now, following the blowout win, they rise up one spot to be ranked 12th.
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Within the rankings, PFF’s Thomas Valentine writes, “The Vikings’ defense went nuclear versus the Bengals, allowing an absolutely crazy -1.027 EPA per passing play in the 48-10 win and scoring two defensive touchdowns — courtesy of CB Isaiah Rodgers, who earned a perfect 99.9 PFF coverage grade — while making life significantly easier for a Vikings offense with Carson Wentz under center. The rout lifts the Vikings to 2-1, but a tough trip to Dublin to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers awaits.”
PFF added that the Vikings have a 38% chance of making the playoffs. Their 2-1 start has them in a good spot in that regard, but their Super Bowl chances sit at just 2%. Lots of time left to fluctuate those numbers one way or another, and it starts with Week 4 against the Steelers.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Minnesota Vikings move up PFF’s power rankings ahead of Week 4