The Minnesota Vikings‘ defense had been rolling going into their Week 15 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals, having not allowed a rushing touchdown in four straight games or a passing touchdown in two consecutive contests.
But then, the Bengals proceeded to tally a pair of passing touchdowns and one rushing score in the fourth quarter in their comeback win over the Vikings this past weekend.
Minnesota safety Josh Metellus was not happy with the defense’s effort against Cincinnati, and with the Vikings’ playoff hopes hanging in the balance, he says that the defense needs to get it together for the stretch run.
“Past however many games, defense had a chance to execute with the game on the line, and we haven’t done that,” Metellus said, via the Vikings’ official YouTube account. “So these next three weeks are all about executing when the team needs us most. That’s when it’s winning time.”
Minnesota is 7-7 heading into its Week 16 matchup with the Detroit Lions. Currently, the Vikings hold the second Wild Card spot in the NFC, but given how many teams are in contention for the last couple of playoff slots in the conference, it’s a delicate balancing act for Minnesota. One loss could absolutely set the team back and ruin its postseason chances.
“Just got to execute better when the game’s on the line. Our best ball,” added Metellus. “We haven’t let up a touchdown in however many [games]. But it mattered on Saturday in the fourth quarter. So I would say for us, it’s just executing and playing our best ball in those moments where the team needs us.”
Metellus is enjoying a breakout campaign, having racked up 93 tackles, 2.5 sacks, an interception, four forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and four passes defended.
The 25-year-old is in his fourth season, but it’s his first year as a full-time starter in the Vikings’ secondary.
After facing the Lions, Minnesota will take on the Green Bay Packers and Detroit (again) to wrap up the regular season.
Want the latest NFL analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click here. Interested in reading storylines and analysis about the NBA? Check out our partner NBA Analysis Network.
