Vikings Post Game Interview - Week 5 vs Chiefs

1. Congrats on this win. I'm sure you didnt want to be the first to lose to the Chiefs. Did you feel a lot of pressure coming into this game?

First and foremost, thank you. I always tell my team that the only pressure we feel is the pressure we put on ourselves. And today, the only pressure was to execute our game plan, especially for Julius who had his breakout opportunity - which he grabbed with both hands.

The Chiefs had their [4-1] predictions, and we respect their spirit. But as the old saying goes, 'It's not about what you say, but what you do on the field.' Today, the Vikings did the talking to add another L to the column.

2. The last 2 drives by both teams were intense. What was going through your mind when WIll made it to your red zone?

Watching Will drive down the field and enter our red zone was indeed a nail-biter. In that moment, my mind was a whirlwind of strategy, anticipation, and trust in our defensive schemes. I knew the absolute desperation he was feeling for that first dub, and we decided to give him a look that we know he would gamble on. It paid off with that game-sealing interception.

As for the long gain, after reviewing the film, I noticed our CB backed off MVS, possibly due to the halfback's being motioned to the LOS. These are things we will correct moving forward. But our team's philosophy is clear – bend, don't break. We always ensure we're mentally prepared for moments like these and it showed.

3. That was a clutch throw to TJ, what made you go in his direction?

When we were game planning we noticed certain situations where TJ would have a favorable one-on-one matchup. Our practices are intense and focused, and TJ consistently showed the ability to moss his defenders in those tight situations. In that crucial moment, I trusted the hours of preparation and the chemistry we've developed. It just felt right to give him the chance, and he made the most of it with what would be a walk off TD. The game ball goes to him.

4. Next up are the Bears, Dez has been very consistent this cycle? How do you feel about his game play so far?

Dez has shown that he can bring the heat this cycle. Just look at that thriller against the Commanders and the way he outplayed the Chiefs. We have immense respect for what Dez has been doing, and we're not taking our upcoming matchup lightly. Every game is a new challenge, and we're gearing up to ensure we're prepared on all fronts to face the Bears. Every team has strengths and weaknesses, but one thing is certain Dez and his Bears demand respect and we're preparing for a tough battle.