Three weeks into the 2026 season, the Minnesota Vikings have built a 3-0 start with a tough defense and a new spark at quarterback. On Sunday afternoon, that story rolls into the loud indoor home of U.S. Bank Stadium, where Kyler Murray and the Vikings will meet a Miami Dolphins team searching for its first win.

This matchup is more than a battle between 3-0 and 0-3. Minnesota is trying to show that its fast start can last, while Miami is trying to turn a rebuilding season toward a brighter path. The Dolphins have lost by double digits in all three games, but a single sharp performance can change a team’s direction.

Murray is a major reason this Vikings offense feels different. The former No. 1 draft pick can slide away from defenders, sprint for space, and throw while moving. That makes him difficult to trap. Minnesota has scored 23.7 points per game, and its best passing moments could come when Murray finds Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson working together.

Jefferson is the main star of that group. He already has two touchdown catches, and his quick cuts and strong hands can turn a small opening into a big play. However, his ankle makes his status worth watching. If he cannot play at full strength, Addison could carry a larger role. Addison is smooth on deep routes, while Hockenson gives Murray a sturdy target over the middle. Hockenson’s nine catches show that Murray is already looking for him when the field gets crowded.

Minnesota’s offense has not piled up huge yard totals yet, but its defense has kept the pressure off. The Vikings allow only 13.7 points per game, one of the league’s best early marks. Brian Flores’ defense has forced mistakes and helped Minnesota win close games, including a hard-fought 23-16 victory over Tampa Bay last week. Linebackers Blake Cashman and Andrew Van Ginkel are listed as questionable, so their availability could matter against Miami’s mobile quarterback.

Miami has a different kind of challenge. Malik Willis has thrown for 627 yards and also rushed for 101, showing that he can create plays with both his arm and legs. His favorite target has been Malik Washington, a quick receiver who has caught 12 passes while stepping into a bigger role. For the Dolphins to stay close, Willis must protect the ball and avoid letting Minnesota’s defense control the game.

The biggest Miami setback is De’Von Achane’s knee injury, which has placed the speedy running back on injured reserve. Achane was the Dolphins’ most dangerous all-around weapon, so Miami must find other ways to create speed and balance. That is a tall task against a defense that has made opponents earn nearly every point.

The Dolphins will bring fight and fresh energy into Minneapolis, but Minnesota has been steadier on both sides of the ball. With Murray’s playmaking and a defense built to close games, the Vikings should protect their unbeaten record and win on Sunday.

Kyler Murray and the Vikings Guard Their Perfect Start Against Miami