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EAGAN, Minn. (KMSP) - The 2017 Vikings was a team led by its stout defensive unit, but don't expect the 2018 version of the team to rest on its laurels.
"Each and every day we're just trying to put in this defense, learn this defense and master this defense so when you have an opportunity to go hit somebody else, we're ready,” said Defensive Tackle Linval Joseph.
The majority of the 2017 defensive core returns to Minnesota for another season.
The players say there is no guarantee of success but they're quick to add that they believe that type of continuity will give them an edge towards picking up where they left off.
"There are a lot of guys that have played together for a while so it is good kind of having some chemistry and you know what makes guys tick and you know how to communicate with guys,” said Safety Harrison Smith.
"It's really been a blessing for us,” said Defensive End Everson Griffen. “We've been with the same D-line coach, defensive coordinator, head coach for the last five years so learning the playbook, it comes back quick."
The last team to lead the league in total defense in back to back seasons was the Seahawks in 2013 and 2014.
Seattle went to the Super Bowl in both of those seasons. While the Vikings fell four quarters short of the big game last year, they believe this defense is good enough to lead them to the Promised Land in 2018.
"We're trying to be the first to win a Super Bowl around here so that's our number one goal is take it day by day, rep by rep but keep our eyes on the prize and that's [San Francisco] and the working our way down the line,” said Griffen.