Vikings defense under Brian Flores is being redone with aggression, deception and freedom
EAGAN, Minn. — Minnesota’s defense broke down again last season. I don’t know how they get it done over there.” The hallmark of the scheme, which has a basis in a 3-4 alignment but will switch to a 4-3 if the opponent calls for it, is to send pass rushers from unpredictable places and make the offense unsure about where the extra pressure will come from. “That’s how I think football should be played.” There’s simply a lot going on before and after the snap, ideally saddling the quarterback with even more to process than he already has to in a few precious seconds. “It’s only making us better, and hopefully once we get to the real football, the things that other teams show us are going to be at least a little bit less stressful,” Phillips said. “I’m just focused on this year, this group, their ability to play fast, play physical and really enjoy playing the game and having fun out there,” Flores said.

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