Overview
- Kevin O'Connell said Wednesday the Vikings have run a deliberate, higher designed-run, lower-dropback script that has reduced Justin Jefferson's targets and overall pass volume.
- Jefferson has 302 receiving yards and three touchdowns in five games and is averaging about 6.2 targets per game, numbers that project to his lowest full-season totals since entering the league.
- Quarterback Kyler Murray is averaging a career-low 162.4 passing yards per game with three touchdown passes in five starts, a decline that reporters say has constrained the passing attack.
- Minnesota is the NFL's only 6-0 team largely because its defense allows the fewest points, but the offense has produced just 10 total touchdowns, drawing fan and media criticism of play-calling.
- The Vikings face a difficult November schedule including the Lions, Bills, Packers, 49ers and Falcons, a stretch that could force the club to more actively feature Jefferson or rely on the defense to maintain wins.