Vikings Rookie LB Anthony Barr Making Big Impression

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Vikings have been singing Anthony Barr's praises ever since they drafted him ninth overall last spring.

The speedy linebacker has been living up to the expectations halfway through his rookie season. Barr has been one of the bright spots for an up-and-down team through the first eight games.

The Vikings passed on quarterback Johnny Manziel to take Barr, a converted running back who had only played linebacker for two seasons at UCLA.

But Barr has quickly shown an aptitude for the position, including on the final play of Sunday's overtime win at Tampa Bay.

Barr chased down Bucs tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins, stripped the ball and returned the fumble 27 yards for a score to clinch the 19-13 victory.