Minnesota Vikings Week 14 Superlatives

The Minnesota Vikings failed in their attempt to wrap up the NFC North in Week 14 against the Detroit Lions. The Vikings offense mostly played well. The defense mostly didn’t. It was a frustrating loss as it came against a beatable division foe. Here are some of the players that played well in the third loss of the season.

Offensive Player of the Game

Justin Jefferson, WR

Kirk Cousins, QB

Justin Jefferson is an easy choice as his 223 receiving yards were a personal and franchise record. The Lions had no answer. Jefferson pretty much did anything he wanted. 

Kirk Cousins must be included as he was terrific behind an offensive line missing two starters and a run game that did nothing. 

Cousins’ stats:

31/41 

425 yards

2 TDs

An unstoppable Justin Jefferson was on the receiving end of 11 of those completions. Cousins nicely spread the other 20 completed passes around to T.J. Hockenson, Adam Thielen, and K.J. Osborn.

Defensive Player of the Game

No player on defense stood out against the Lions. The defense has to be better, much better, if the Vikings are to have any success in the playoffs. 

Special Teams Player of the Game

Ryan Wright, P

Ryan Wright punted three times for 159 yards. 53 yards/punt. Unfortunately the Lions returned one of those punts 35 yards. 

Like the defense, it wasn’t a great game for the Vikings special teams. But Wright did boot the ball well.