Vikings vs. Chiefs: 5 Halftime Adjustments Minnesota Must Make

Huge game today as the Kansas City Chiefs and the Minnesota Vikings both try to salvage their seasons. The Vikings are looking to finally notch a win and avoid their first 0-4 start since 2002.

Here are five halftime adjustments the Vikings must make if they want to leave today’s game with their first win.

Take Shots Down the Field

The Vikings should keep attacking KC deep. There are big holes on the left side of the Chiefs' secondary that will give McNabb the opportunity to pick apart the D for huge gains. 

Pressure the Edges 

Minnesota needs to keep pressuring the edges to keep Cassel on his heels. KC's QB has been very turnover-prone this season and is due for a mistake. Solid pressure from the edges should force Cassel to rush his throws and make bad decisions. 

Mix Up the Offense

Minnesota needs to keep the Chiefs' D guessing. In the first half the Vikings did a decent job at balancing their offense, but they should consider throwing more on first down and getting AP out on the flats with some screens. 

Stop Penalties/Turnovers

The Vikings need to stop making stupid mistakes in the second half, especially on third down. On the Chiefs' first scoring drive Minnesota committed a crucial face masking penalty that kept their drive alive. If they want to finish this game on top, they NEED to stop harming themselves with penalties and turnovers. 

3rd and Short

Minnesota needs to focus on creating favorable third down situations. Getting good gains on first and second down will allow them to open up their playbook on third down where they can look for a big hit.