The Minnesota Vikings lost to the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, 34-26. Here’s an attempt to recognize some Vikings players that stood out in another close, frustrating, disappointing loss.
Offensive Player of the Week
It’s gotta be the receivers.
Justin Jefferson
4 catches, 83 yards
Adam Thielen
5 catches, 62 yards, 2 TDs (2, 20)
The Vikings also took advantage of Jefferson’s talents with some razzle-dazzle. He received a lateral pass from Kirk Cousins and threw across the field to Dalvin Cook for a 24-yard gain. For a moment, it looked like Cook had a shot to score but he was pushed out of bounds at the six-yard line. It was a big part of a quick drive that had the 49ers defense on their heels.
Jefferson could’ve had another huge game as the 49ers couldn’t cover him. Unfortunately, Cousins missed him high a couple time and low a couple times. Jefferson was in the end zone for a couple of the misfires. One for a two-point conversion. One for a touchdown. There’s eight points in a game decided by eight points.
Jefferson and Thielen needed to get more than nine receptions in this game. They must get more catches moving forward.
Defensive Player of the Game
The Vikings defense had some struggles against the 49ers. That can happen when injuries and COVID forced them to play a defensive line made up entirely of backups. The 49ers ran for over 200 yards. Not good. The 49ers converted too many third-and-longs. Not good. It was a rough game. Harrison Smith is one player that did make some plays.
11 tackles
1 interception
Special Teams Player of the Game
This one’s easy. Kene Nwangwu.
For the first time this season a team gave him multiple kick return opportunities. He took advantage. He returned one of the opportunities 99 yards for a score. A much needed score. It was his second kick return touchdown of the season. For the game:
4 returns, 171 yards, 1 TD (99)
It’s a good bet that he won’t be getting four opportunities in a game again.
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