Vikings vs. Colts Game Observations: Overcoming Early Mistakes in ...

1. Defense locks things down

Minnesota's defense rebounded after a pair of tough games, limiting Indianapolis to just 13 first downs and limiting the Colts to a 3-for-11 showing on third down and a 1-for-2 output on fourth down.

The Vikings limited the Colts to 68 rushing yards and 159 net passing yards.

A 13-yard gain by Jonathan Taylor was the longest rush allowed by Minnesota, and the Vikings limited the talented back to a total of 48 yards on 13 carries.

Harrison Smith recorded his first fumble recovery since 2019 when he pounced on a bobbled exchange to end the first Colts possession of the game. Smith also delivered a couple of key pass breakups late.

Byron Murphy, Jr., recorded his 11th career interception and sixth with the Vikings. It was his third of the season and second in as many games.

Jonathan Greenard recorded two sacks late, and Jihad Ward also recorded one in the fourth quarter.

The Colts had played the first 57-plus minutes without allowing a sack until Greenard broke through.