EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- A lot of pressure has been placed on the Minnesota Vikings' defense in recent seasons to come through in crunch time.
Mike Zimmer arrived in Minnesota four years ago and came in with a proven track record from his years as Cincinnati’s defensive coordinator. The Vikings went from 19th in total defense in 2014 to finishing third last season.
Minnesota's defense established an identity as the team's catalyst for success. Often times, the defense has had to carry the offense.
While the season is only heading into Week 4, the Vikings might have reached a turning point in their 34-17 win over Tampa Bay on Sunday.