Dallas Turner shines with historic three-game sack streak
Amidst the Vikings’ recent struggles, one player has emerged as a beacon of hope: Dallas Turner. The 22-year-old defensive end, selected as the 17th overall pick two drafts ago, is beginning to fulfill the promise that excited the franchise.
A Streak to Remember
Turner has been on a tear, racking up sacks in consecutive games. His impressive run started with a takedown of Justin Fields in a matchup against the Bears. He followed that performance with another sack against the Packers. However, it was in Seattle that Turner truly made headlines, recording two strip-sacks on quarterback Sam Darnold during a challenging game for the Vikings.
Had it not been for a controversial roughing the passer call that nullified his sack against Lamar Jackson in Week 10, Turner could very well be celebrating a four-game sack streak. His two-sack, two-forced fumble performance against the Seahawks marked a significant milestone; he became the first Vikings player to achieve such a feat in a single game since 2003.
Stats That Speak Volumes
Turner’s three-game stretch has been impressive not just in terms of sacks. He has accumulated a total of 12 pressures, 15 tackles, and a couple of pass breakups along the way. These numbers highlight a player who is not only excelling in getting to the quarterback but also contributing meaningfully in various facets of the game.
Despite being one of the younger talents from the 2024 draft class, Turner’s performance suggests he is maturing rapidly. As he approaches his 23rd birthday in February, his ability to make impactful plays comes at a crucial time for the Vikings, who are in desperate need of defensive reinforcement.
Looking Ahead
With 12 pressures, four sacks, and two forced fumbles over the past three weeks, Dallas Turner is proving that he is not just a promising talent but a key player for the Vikings moving forward. As the team navigates its challenges, Turner’s upward trajectory offers a glimmer of optimism for a franchise in search of solutions.
