The San Francisco 49ers knocked off the Minnesota Vikings 20-3 in the second of two Monday Night Football games. The 49ers' defense shut down the Vikings, who were favored to win the game. Here are five things we learned from the 49ers win over the Vikings.
The Demise Of The 49ers Has Been Greatly Exaggerated
The 49ers lost numerous starters and head coach Jim Harbaugh. With such turnover, few expected much from the 49ers this season. After watching the defense stifle the Vikings' offense and the 49ers' offense looking just fine, perhaps the 49ers' demise isn't as imminent as previously thought. This team could compete for a playoff spot in the NFC.
Teddy Bridgewater Is Still Growing
I still view Bridgewater as the best QB from his draft class, but he's not ready to be an elite QB yet. He had some struggles last night, and looked like a second-year QB. He'll keep growing and will continue to develop, but maybe it's time to pump the brakes a bit on the Bridgewater hype train.
Carlos Hyde Is The Real Deal
In his first season as the 49ers' feature back, Hyde outplayed Adrian Peterson. Hyde picked up 168 yards and two scores on 26 carries. He looked the feature back the 49ers thought they were getting when they drafted him in the second round out of Ohio State a season ago.
Adrian Peterson Needs More Touches
Peterson received a mere 10 carries for 31 yards. There weren't many holes for Peterson, but the Vikings have to get Peterson the ball more. He's their best player and 13 touches (Peterson caught three passes for 21 yards) isn't anywhere near enough. For the Vikings to compete in the NFC North, Peterson needs to have the ball in his hands more.
Kyle Rudolph Is A Favorite Target Of Bridgewater
This shouldn't come as a major surprise, given that Norv Turner offenses often throw to the tight end. Rudolph was targeted a team-high seven times, catching five passes for 53 yards. Bridgewater clearly trusts Rudolph, and the two could connect for scores once the Vikings offense gets into the red zone with regularity.
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