The Minnesota Vikings are 10-2 and run an offense that many teams don't want to play against.
Quarterback Sam Darnold is back for the season, receiver Justin Jefferson is dominant and tight end TJ Hockenson looks to be getting healthier as the season progresses.
With an improved defense, this team is different from the Minnesota Vikings of the past, where opponents only needed a few turnovers to win.
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Minnesota Vikings cornerback Stephon Gilmore, 2, celebrates with his teammates after intercepting a pass in the fourth quarter against the New York Jets at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)
That's why cornerback Stephon Gilmore has high hopes for this team, especially with Darnold at the controls.
“He's done a great job. He's always had great talent. He's definitely leading our team to where we want to go. Hopefully,” Gilmore told Fox News Digital in a recent interview. I hope he keeps this up and continues to get better.” “I'm excited. We can do something special this year.”
The Vikings will be Gilmore's fifth team in recent seasons, but he's already making an impact on and off the field. When he's not hitting passes from top receivers, he's giving back to the community.
Gilmore partnered with He Gets Us Tuesday to host “Steph's Santa Workshop,” an event that provided gifts and Vikings merchandise to more than 100 children.
“This is my first event in Minnesota. I've always wanted to give back to the community, and this is a great opportunity to give back on Thanksgiving Tuesday. I was able to do something great with He Gets Us. I’m excited,’” Gilmore said.
Minnesota Vikings cornerback Stephon Gilmore during the second half of a game at MetLife Stadium. (Jon Jones/Imag Images)
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“No matter where I've gone, I've always given back. I always tell people that. No matter where you're from, no matter how you grew up, if you give back and help kids and help kids. I hope that if I have the opportunity to be there for them, they will remember that time and be able to do the same when they grow up.”
Despite their impressive record, some observers have doubts about the Vikings. It wasn't that long ago that the Vikings went 13-4 with a high-octane offense and lost to the New York Giants in the first round of the playoffs.
Gilmore said he listens to the opposition, but head coach Kevin O'Connell is adding fuel to their fire.
“Coach told us every week, 'No one believes in us.' We have to keep proving to everyone that we're a really good team, and as long as we keep doing that, everything will be fine.” “I guess so,” Gilmore said.
Minnesota Vikings cornerback Stephon Gilmore intercepts a pass in the fourth quarter at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)
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The Vikings will have a familiar opponent in the stadium this weekend when Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons come to town.
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