The Minnesota Vikings found themselves down 17-7 just 50 seconds into the fourth quarter after a six-yard touchdown reception by Dax Milne.
After the Vikings responded with a field goal, they still needed a big play. Washington Commanders quarterback Taylor Heinicke has been known to make an incredibly ill-advised throw or two in each game. He only had one of those on Sunday but the Vikings took advantage.
Harrison Smith was in perfect position to make a play and he capitalized.
.@HarriSmith22 has more catches than some WRs this season.
📺: @NFLonFOX pic.twitter.com/pYo9mxVo4D
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 6, 2022
After the interception by Smith, the Vikings needed just two plays for Kirk Cousins to hit Dalvin Cook on a wheel route in the back corner of the end zone.
Our RB would be your WR1.@dalvincook
📺: @NFLonFOX pic.twitter.com/Y4RiFRUMx7
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 6, 2022
The route is a modified switch concept with T.J. Hockenson running a post and Cook running the wheel route to perfection. The throw was just as good as the route and the crowd in Landover, MD exploded with joy.
The route concept is a common one in this offense. The idea is to create movement with the two receivers to force the defensive backs to think and potentially create confusion and spark a big play.
The Vikings did a great job capitalizing on Smith’s interception.
