5 takeaways from the Vikings' Week 7 loss to the Detroit Lions

Let's be honest. This Vikings team never went undefeated. So what would you prefer, a loss to a Super Bowl contender or a team ranked in the top ten in April? The Lions' loss will make this team better, motivate them and prepare this coaching staff for their second game. In a season where losing is inevitable, a loss to the Lions is one of the better ones.

After only having 75 yards at halftime, some may have wondered where the MVP candidate was. In the second half he was more open and wasn't afraid to take chances; they paid off. He finished with 259 yards and a touchdown and had the Vikings under control until the end. It wasn't a brilliant performance, but the loss doesn't rest on his shoulders.

Brian Flores and the Vikings defense were the stars of the season entering Week 7. Although they made several big plays, including another defensive touchdown, they had to make some adjustments. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jared Goff didn't let themselves get rattled and kept the momentum throughout, and that needs to be a priority in their next matchup.

Andrew Van Ginkel added a forced fumble and two sacks to his season total, giving him impressive numbers through seven weeks. He has 22 tackles, five sacks, six tackles for a loss, two interceptions and two defensive touchdowns, and yet no one mentions his name when the award comes up. It's time for the media and fans to start using their voices to campaign for him.

Aaron Jones and his hip/hamstring had his status up in the air for Sunday, but once he was no longer inactive, fans should have expected fireworks. He took his first carry of the day to the house and from there worked the Lions' defense in the run-and-pass game. He finished the game with 116 total yards and a score, but also had excellent pass defense. One could argue that Jones is the team's most valuable offensive player this year.