Two special teams touchdowns from the Minnesota Vikings have helped their side to a 28-3 lead over the Carolina Panthers at half time.
The home side started their offense with three runs and three throws, eventually ending with a first and goal. Tight end Kyle Rudolph ran a short hook in and collected Teddy Bridgewater's four-yard pass to put Minnesota 7-0 ahead.
When the Panthers went to punt during a failed possession, special teams wide receiver Adam Thielen blocked the kick and scooped up the ball, running it back to increase the lead.
Cam Newton finally got things going on the Panthers next drive, handing off to Jonathan Stewart to carry for 26 yards. Despite reaching the Vikings 15, the visitors had to settle for three points from the boot of Graham Gano.
Incredibly, the next time the Panthers went to punt the football, another block was made, with Everson Griffen the man in the right place this time to gather the ball and run it back home.
As the second half wound down, rookie signal caller Bridgewater took advantage of a two-minute drill to find Greg Jennings for an 18-yard score and put his team firmly in control.
Joe McPhee
