There were high expectations around the Vikings offense before the season built around offensive coordinator Norv Turner's scheme and some of the weapons available on the roster.
But through six games, the Vikings have averaged 17.3 points per game. That's tied with the Titans for fourth worst in the NFL. The Vikings posted a single-digit total for the third time this season in the 17-3 loss against the Lions on Sunday.
Some have started to question Turner, after his offense produced only one touchdown in the past two games (both losses), but Vikings coach Mike Zimmer defended Turner on Monday.
"I have 100 percent confidence in Norv Turner and the offensive staff," Zimmer said. "That doesn't mean I won't have more of a point of emphasis with some of the players offensively."
Zimmer said he made points of emphasis on defense last week in practice, which he felt made a noticeable difference against the Lions. While the defense improved, holding the Lions to 255 total yards without wide receiver Calvin Johnson and running back Reggie Bush, the offense remained stale.
The Vikings tried switching running backs, starting rookie Jerick McKinnon for the first time. They even attempted a halfback toss to wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson, a play the Vikings haven't run since the season opener against the Rams, to seek a spark but it only gained 3 yards.
"I do believe players, if they understand you're serious about it, you put some extra effort into it, some point of emphasis, they'll respond," Zimmer said. "So I'll be with the offense a little bit more."
The Vikings have lost three important offensive pieces — running back Adrian Peterson, tight end Kyle Rudolph and right guard Brandon Fusco — either because of injury or off-the-field issues during the season. They've rotated through three quarterbacks in six games because of injury. Rookie quarterback Teddy Bridgewater threw three interceptions in his return from an ankle injury, which also prompted Zimmer to reassure his confidence in the first-round pick.
