Minnesota Vikings offensive coordinator Wes Phillips has seen Kyler Murray grow more comfortable in the offense during the team’s unbeaten start. Minnesota enters its bye week at 5-0 after beating the New Orleans Saints 23-13, and Murray delivered his strongest performance of the season in the victory.
Phillips’ assessment comes as the Vikings look to build on a run of wins that has kept them atop the NFC North. Murray completed 24 of 30 passes for 229 yards and a touchdown against New Orleans, avoiding turnovers while helping Minnesota control the game.
The quarterback also showed his mobility, extending plays when pressure arrived and creating opportunities beyond the designed structure. That ability gives head coach Kevin O’Connell and Phillips another way to attack defenses, particularly when coverage takes away the first read.
Murray’s start has not been flawless. Minnesota’s offense had struggled to produce consistently in earlier wins, but the Saints game offered signs of progress. His accuracy early in the contest helped the Vikings sustain drives, while his decisions limited the mistakes that can give opponents extra possessions.
The offense still has room to improve. Minnesota finished with 23 points against New Orleans, and the coaching staff will want to turn more promising drives into touchdowns as the schedule becomes tougher. Continued coordination between Murray, his receivers and the offensive line will be important.
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The five-game winning streak has also given Minnesota breathing room in the division. The Vikings have already beaten NFC North rivals and will use their bye week to recover and prepare for the next stretch of the season.
Phillips’ comments highlight the progress the staff has seen from Murray, but the bigger test will be sustaining it. If the quarterback continues to protect the football, take what defenses give him and use his legs when necessary, Minnesota’s offense has a stronger foundation for the second half of the season.
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