Vikings success starts with improved defense

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. As the Minnesota Vikings season nosedived last year, a lot of the blame was placed on a historically bad secondary, which allowed a 107.6 quarterback rating, the second highest mark in NFL history. Injuries and an overall lack of competency were common themes as Minnesota led the league with 34 passing touchdowns allowed, while tying a league-low with eight interceptions. Opposing quarterbacks completed 68.2 percent of their passes, the second-highest total in the league. The Vikings turnaround this season, recovering from last year's 3-13 record to go 3-1 and lead the NFC North prior to Monday night's game, starts with a renewed vigor on defense, especially from the secondary. "When you've got the tools to work with in the secondary, your game plan can be executed, your goals can be accomplished," coach Leslie Frazier said. "We're better in the secondary than we have been in the past. We made some plays yesterday on a couple of balls that I don't know a year...