REASONS FOR OPTIMISM

1. The Vikings might have their franchise quarterback. Teddy Bridgewater, viewed by some as the top QB prospect in the 2014 NFL draft, fell into the team's lap late in the first round in May. The Vikings had to play him sooner than they wanted when veteran Matt Cassel was lost for the year in Week 3. But after some early growing pains, Bridgewater is displaying poise, pocket presence and an accurate arm.

2. Mike Zimmer has made the defense respectable. By many measures, the Vikings had one of the NFL's worst defenses in 2013. But under Zimmer, they have been much better in 2014, particularly when it comes to defending the pass. The collapse in Miami shows there is still plenty of work left to be done, but this defense is trending upward.

3. Young defenders under Zimmer made major strides. Zimmer came to Minnesota with a reputation for helping talented youngsters grow up, and defensive end Everson Griffen, cornerback Xavier Rhodes, safety Harrison Smith and defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd all took major leaps.

4. Rookie outside linebacker Anthony Barr looks like a future star. Some draft analysts were puzzled when the Vikings used their top pick on Barr, a raw, rangy pass rusher whom they projected for a 3-4 defensive scheme. But Barr thrived in a do-it-all role for Zimmer, generating Defensive Rookie of the Year buzz before his season-ending knee injury.

5. Norv Turner is expected to be back in 2015. The Vikings rank 26th in total yards in Turner's first season as offensive coordinator, but what did you expect with a rookie QB learning on the fly and star back Adrian Peterson playing just one game? Turner's return would be big for Bridgewater's development and offensive continuity overall.

MATT VENSEL