Minnesota Vikings Week 16 Superlatives

The Minnesota Vikings did far more to lose the game on Sunday than the Detroit Lions did to win. The 30-24 loss handed the Lions the NFC North title. Anyway, a couple Vikings players shined brightly in the devastating loss. 

Offensive Player of the Game

Justin Jefferson, WR

Justin Jefferson is definitely back from the hamstring injury that took him off the field for half the season. He was the best player on the field and it wasn’t remotely close. 

His numbers:

6 catches 

144 yards 

1 TD (26 yards)

He had 10 targets. He should’ve had 20 targets. If he had 20 targets, the Vikings probably win this game. 

Defensive Player of the Game

Patrick Jones II, OLB

Patrick Jones II made the splashiest plays for a Vikings defense that needed a few more.

His numbers:

6 tackles

1 sack

3 tackles for loss

The sack would’ve been more of a game-changer if he hadn’t been called for a very dubious roughing the passer penalty on the next player. What should’ve been a Lions punt became a drive that ended with a field goal. Those were three points that the Lions never should’ve been able to add.