The undefeated NFL team that cant score touchdowns

Out of the three undefeated teams remaining in the NFL a month into the season, the unlikeliest of the group is the one that can’t score touchdowns.Since it erupted for 39 points in a season-opening win, the Minnesota Vikings’ offense has scored just one offensive touchdown in its last three games.It has gone 18 consecutive possessions without reaching the end zone.

No other team in the NFL has thrown for fewer yards through four games, and only six have averaged fewer yards per rush.Offensive numbers like that might normally doom a team.

The Vikings have found a workaround, however, en route to starting 4-0: Who needs touchdowns when your defense doesn’t allow them? Using the most blitz-happy scheme in the NFL, the Vikings have allowed just four touchdowns all season — including just two in their last 40 drives — and given up a league-low 12.8 points per game.At that rate, only a few field goals from the NFL’s most consistent kicker are all that has been needed to stay unbeaten.“We’re very excited about being a 4-0 team,” coach Kevin O’Connell said Monday.

“But at the same time, we know there’s so much work to be done.” Quarterback Kyler Murray said after Sunday’s 15-10 win over the Miami Dolphins: “Again, the defense was holding it down for us.They went out there and did it again.”Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray on Sunday.David Berding / GettySince Flores became Minnesota’s defensive coordinator in 2023, the unit has carved out an ultra-aggressive reputation.

The Vikings have blitzed on 57% of opponents’ dropbacks this season — nearly double the rate of the second-best team (Chicago, at 33%).The Vikings also lead in pressure rate, they are tied for the league lead in hurries, and they are one off the league leaders in quarterback knockdowns.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles, a defensive play-caller himself, has called Minnesota’s scheme “very good controlled chaos.” Preparing for the Vikings in Week 2, Chicag...