Two improbably blocked punts even more improbably returned for touchdowns gave the Vikings the perfect reason to use a rather conservative offensive approach in an impressive victory Sunday over Carolina.
These are the kinds of games Mike Zimmer's squad is built to win right now. What's becoming increasingly clear, though, is that to win against more potent NFL teams, the Vikings need a playmaker at wide receiver. Even if Cordarrelle Patterson shakes off his second-year doldrums, this would be useful.
If he doesn't, it becomes essential. The best present the Vikings could give the young QB they hope is the face of the franchise is a new offensive lineman and a new receiver with the first two picks in next year's draft.
THIS IS TRUE Tweet from @smartfootball: Remember when Jordy Nelson was coming out of college and scouts said he owed his success to playing with Josh Freeman?
PRICELESS Best moment from the Wolves' 120-119 victory over the Lakers on Friday was Zach LaVine's relief/disbelief when Kobe missed at the buzzer.
