The Minnesota Vikings faced a challenging afternoon at Lumen Field on October 1, 2023, suffering a significant 26-0 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. This defeat marked a difficult first start for quarterback Max Brosmer, who received a notably low grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF) following the game.
Offensive Performance Review
In terms of offensive output, the Vikings struggled to find their rhythm. The top performers, based on PFF’s grading, included T.J. Hockenson, who recorded a score of 73.0. Hockenson’s contributions included six receptions for 59 yards, with a standout 29-yard seam route that represented the Vikings’ most significant offensive play.
Following Hockenson, Brian O’Neill and Josh Oliver received grades of 68.5 and 64.6, respectively. Despite these individual successes, the overall offensive performance was lackluster, particularly highlighted by Brosmer’s score of just 22.0. This dramatic low grade stemmed from a critical mistake that not only nullified scoring opportunities for the Vikings but also allowed the Seahawks to capitalize and score points.
Defensive Highlights and Concerns
On the defensive side, the Vikings had a few bright spots. Jalen Redmond stood out with a grade of 78.5, demonstrating his effectiveness in run-stopping. His consistent performance has made him a key player on the defensive line this season. Fabian Moreau and Levi Drake Rodriguez followed closely with grades of 75.8 and 73.5, respectively, showcasing their contributions to the defensive effort.
Conversely, the defense also had notable disappointments. Byron Murphy Jr., who had joined the Vikings as a high-profile free agent, continued to struggle, earning a grade of only 43.5. His performance has been underwhelming this season, and this game against the Seahawks was no exception, as he failed to make a significant impact.
As the Vikings reflect on this loss, they will need to address both the offensive and defensive shortcomings. With the team still adjusting to the absence of Christian Darrisaw, who was sidelined during Brosmer’s debut, it remains to be seen how they will regroup in the coming weeks. The pressure will be on Brosmer to improve as he gains experience, while the entire roster looks to rebound from this challenging outing.
