Vikings performing magic: Instant reaction

Charlotte -

Instant reaction

Mike Zimmer is performing miracles.

The Vikings played one of the best teams in the NFL in a place where that team hasn't lost since 2014, and won going away in what might be the most impressive victory of Zimmer's tenure.

The Vikings' 22-10 victory at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte raises the question: Are they the best team in the NFC?

And is Zimmer the best coach in the NFC?

The Vikings are 3-0. They have beaten the Packers and Panthers in consecutive games. They have thus far survived injuries that would decimate other teams. They are on their third starting quarterback in a month, they have replaced their franchise running back with a committee and they are 3-0.

And they are headed for a Monday night game in U.S. Bank Stadium, meaning they can spend the week answering questions about whether they are the NFL's best team at the moment.

This is masterful work by Zimmer. If not for Bill Belichick winning games with quarterbacks of far less accomplishment than Sam Bradford, Zimmer would be the early favorite for coach of the year.

I'll file my column to startribune.com later. Thanks for reading.