The contrast between the Minnesota Vikings’ offense and defense through the first four weeks of the NFL season is staggering. Minnesota is 4-0 largely because its defense has been dominant, ranking first in points allowed per game while also ranking among the league’s top seven in both rushing and passing yards allowed.

Meanwhile, the Vikings’ offense has struggled to consistently move the football. Minnesota ranks 18th in scoring, 16th in rushing and dead last in passing, creating one of the most unusual 4-0 starts in the NFL.

How long can Minnesota keep winning this way?

Sep 13, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray (1) runs the ball against the Green Bay Packers during the first half at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

The Vikings’ defense has been so good that it has essentially erased the need for the offense to be explosive. Minnesota has allowed just 51 points through four games, while the offense has scored 86. The defense has even helped the team win games despite the offense failing to produce a touchdown.

That formula has worked perfectly so far, but the question is whether it can continue. NFL.com’s Week 5 power rankings called Minnesota’s offense “downright putrid” while praising a defense that has repeatedly carried the team.

For now, the Vikings remain undefeated. But if the offense doesn’t find a way to improve, the pressure on the defense will only continue to grow as the season moves forward

Vikings offense looked better with Wentz

Sep 13, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz (11) warms up before the game against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

The Vikings’ offense simply looked more comfortable and efficient with Carson Wentz under center than it has with Kyler Murray. Wentz did a better job of getting the ball out, making quick decisions, and keeping the offense on schedule, while Minnesota has struggled to consistently generate explosive plays since Murray returned. The Vikings are still winning because of their defense, but the early offensive results suggest Wentz gave the unit a better rhythm and overall flow.

That doesn’t necessarily mean Wentz should replace Murray permanently. Murray possesses considerably more athletic ability and was signed because Minnesota believes he can raise the offense’s ceiling.

But the early results are clear: the Vikings’ offense has looked more comfortable, efficient, and decisive with Wentz than it has with Murray.

For a team sitting at 4-0 largely because of its defense, that’s becoming an increasingly important storyline.

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