Minnesota Vikings Week 5 Superlatives

The Minnesota Vikings moved to 4-1 after their 29-22 Week 5 win over the Chicago Bears. The Vikings offense started and ended the game in fantastic fashion. The start and end were a view of what this offense could be. Unfortunately, they missed many opportunities on their middle four possessions of the game. The Vikings defense is making strides but is still a work in progress. After a strong start to the season, the Vikings special teams was a problem this week. 

Offensive Player of the Game

Justin Jefferson, WR

It’s Justin Jefferson. Again. Dalvin Cook had a nice game running the ball but Jefferson, once again, could not be covered. 

12 catches 

154 yards

2-point conversion. 

Jefferson even completed a pass to Cook for 23 yards. 

Defensive Player of the Game

Cam Dantzler Sr., CB

Cam Dantzler Sr. secured the win when he picked the pocket of Bears receiver Ihmir Smith-Marsette. If that was the only play that Dantzler made, it would’ve been enough. He also drew the block in the back penalty (from Smith-Marsette) that wiped out a 52-yard touchdown run by Justin Fields. Dantzler punked his former teammate twice. If either one of those plays doesn’t happen, the game would’ve been very different.

Dantzler also stopped the Bears 2-point attempt. 

In total, Dantzler took six Bears points off the board and made the play that sealed the game. 

Special Teams Player of the Game

Akayleb Evans, ST

It looked like the Vikings were going to run away with this game. They were rolling. Special teams miscues allowed the Bears to get back into this game. Shanked punt, missed field goals. That sort of thing. The Bears tried an onside kick after their first second half score. Akayleb Evans covered that kick. For that, he’s an easy choice for the Vikings special teams player of the week.