GLENDALE, Ariz. -- As a rule, Minnesota Vikings coach Mike Zimmer does not believe in moral victories. He'll likely have none of that narrative after Thursday night, in a game the Vikings could have won if not for three fumbles in Arizona Cardinals territory.
But considering the Vikings were without four defensive starters -- including three players who might be their most important on defense -- it's tough not to look at Thursday's 23-20 loss to the Cardinals and see reasons for encouragement, especially when compared to their 38-7 loss to the Seattle Seahawks at home on Sunday.