Minnesota Vikings Week 8 Superlatives

The Minnesota Vikings defeated the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau, 24-10. Other than the season-ending injury to Kirk Cousins, it was beautiful. Here are some of the players that made it happen. 

Offensive Player of the Game

Kirk Cousins, QB

Despite the slow start to the season, Kirk Cousins has been very good all season. Against the San Francisco 49ers and Green Bay Packers, he’s been brilliant. 

Against the Packers:

23 competitions

31 attempts

274 yards

2 touchdowns

And he did it without all-everything receiver Justin Jefferson. The past two games, he made the players around him better. Just like a franchise quarterback should. K.J. Osborn, T.J. Hockenson, and Jordan Addison each had more than 80 receiving yards against the Packers. 

Get well soon, Kirk Cousins.

K.J. Osborn, WR

K.J. Osborn had taken a distant seat behind Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson, and Jordan Addison in the pass receiving pecking order. Against the Packers, Osborn reminded everyone that he can be a difference-maker. 

8 catches 

99 yards

Osborn has often been a clutch, third-down, chain-mover. He was that on Sunday.

Defensive Player of the Game

Harrison Phillips, DL

Harrison Phillips may have played his best game for the Vikings. He was terrific against the run, especially in short yardage. He also provided some pass rush. He was in on one sack of Jordan Love. He nearly had another sack of the Packers quarterback.

Josh Metellus, S

Josh Metellus’ interception and 43 yard return was the defensive splash play of the game. Cousins immediately made the Packers pay further with a 20-yard touchdown throw to Addison. 

Metellus made plays all over the field, in coverage, and against the run.