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The Vikings wrapped an extended work week with the Patriots Saturday in a 20-12 loss at U.S. Bank Stadium.
While the final score of a preseason game is the most visible aspect of the contest, there's often quite a bit of subtext for each game.
This past contest began with what Minnesota Head Coach Kevin O'Connell and New England Head Coach Mike Vrabel (happy 50th birthday to him last Thursday, by the way) wanted to accomplish in two days of joint practices.
After those sessions, O'Connell opted to rest his entire first teams on the unofficial depth chart, plus another wave of players. Vrabel opted to start members of his first teams, including QB Drake Maye, the No. 3 pick of 2024, and defensive tackle Milton Williams, New England's prized addition during free agency.
Minnesota's reserves were able to hold their own, particularly on defense, but the offense was unable to move the ball early and was unable to capitalize on some nice opportunities late.
Now, the Vikings are preparing to close out their preseason slate by visiting the Titans at 7 p.m. (CT) Friday in a contest that will be broadcast nationally by CBS.
We also are less than a week away from the NFL's deadline for teams to reduce their rosters to 53 players (Aug 26 this year).
The Vikings are scheduled to practice today, tomorrow and Wednesday before traveling to Music City on Thursday.
Let's get to the questions.