The lack of a deep receiving threat was the dog that didn’t bark in Minnesota’s road loss to the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. Percy Harvin put in a great effort in a losing cause, and (at least statistically: 27 of 35 for 245 yds, 2TDs and a 114.6 passer rating) Christian Ponder did more than enough to win, but few teams can win on the road when you give up a hundred yards in penalties — most of them stupid, avoidable penalties. The score at the halfway point was 17-6, and if anything that flattered the Vikings.
Some Twitter reactions from the game:
People asking why Christian Ponder seems so cautious today. I can tell you from this bird's eye view that nobody is getting open.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 16, 2012
You. have. to. be. kidding. me. Man, some of this defensive play from the Vikings feels like 2011.
— Judd Zulgad (@jzulgad) September 16, 2012
Vikings offense killed itself on final two possessions of half. Lost fumble. And a quick 3-and-out. Colts turn it into 10 pts.
— Access Vikings (@AccessVikings) September 16, 2012
At least no one can say the #Vikings aren't trying to mix things up in coverage. They're getting beat in ALL their coverages.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 16, 2012
Pretty sure one of Ponder's 10 passing attempts went farther than 10 yards in air. Let's see whether Vikings loosen his collar in 2nd half
— Pioneer Press (@VikingsNow) September 16, 2012
See if the Vikings can get their third third-down stop. On this drive.
— The Daily Norseman ░V░I░K░ I░N░G░S░ ░I░N░ ░B░I░0░ (@DailyNorseman) September 16, 2012
Adding to the dysfunction: That's nine #Vikings penalties for 90 yards through three quarters.
— Pioneer Press (@VikingsNow) September 16, 2012
So the #Vikings have 90 penalty yards, 92 net passing yards and 88 rushing yards.
— VikingUpdate.com (@VikingUpdate) September 16, 2012
I’ll have a round-up of the post-game reporting tomorrow. This was a game that neither team actually deserved to win, but the Colts committed fewer stupid penalties and that may have been the difference in the end.
