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Second Thoughts: Vikings' third-and-long situations marked a historic failure in loss to Bengals

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Pro Football Reference started compiling play-by-play data more than a quarter-century ago. The Vikings had never faced as many dismal third-down situations as they did in losing to Cincinnati.

Kirk Cousins passing vs. the Bengals

Viewed through how horribly they fared at what might be football's most essential task — gaining 10 yards and a new set of downs — the fact the Vikings were close to pulling out a win in Cincinnati on Sunday might register as a bit of a shock.

It's probably also not something they have any interest in repeating.