Minnesota Vikings Week 7 Superlatives

In Week 7, the Minnesota Vikings lost their first game of the season. The Detroit Lions made a few fewer mistakes to secure the 31-29 win. The Vikings had their opportunities. Convert a particular 3rd-and-four, they win. The Vikings advanced the ball to the Lions side of the field five times and came away with one touchdown. Flip any one of Will Reichard’s three field goals into a touchdown, they win. The Vikings had their opportunities to win this big divisional game. It was a good game. It could’ve had a better outcome but it was a good game. It was a game befitting the two best teams in the NFC, perhaps the entire NFL. Here are some of the players that played a big role in nearly keeping the Vikings undefeated. 

Offensive Players of the Game

Justin Jefferson, WR

Aaron Jones, RB 

Each scored a touchdown on an explosive play. Aaron Jones ran untouched from 34 yards to open he scoring. Justin Jefferson caught a 25-yard pass from Sam Darnold to open the second half. That cut the Lions lead to 21-17.

Jefferson’s day:

7 catches 

81 yards

1 TD (25)

1 carry

3 yards

The rushing attempt was supposed to be a passing attempt but Jefferson could find no one open. He scrambled to gain what he could.

Jones was dominant. When he’s been in top form, he’s been outstanding. Even in Jefferson’s imposing presence, Jones has been the heartbeat of the Vikings offense.

Defensive Player of the Game

Ivan Pace Jr.

Ivan Pace Jr. brought the Vikings to the brink of a win with his 36-yard fumble return for a score. That would’ve been the play of the game if the Vikings had held on for the win. It wasn’t the only play that he made. Pace had ten tackles and a sack. He played the bulk of the snaps for the first time this season. Blake Cashman was out with a turf toe so Pace was up. Things happen with him on the field. With or without Cashman in the lineup, Pace needs to be on the field more. 

Special Teams Player of the Game

Will Reichard, K

Once again, the rookie kicker was outstanding. He’s perfect on the season with his kicks. He’s 12-for-12 on field goals and 18-for-18 on extra points. Against the Lions, he was good on field goals from 57, 42, and 48 yards. After the game, head coach Kevin O’Connell said that he was going to send Reichard out with a second to play to attempt a nearly 70 yard field goal. I’d like to have seen that. Unfortunately, a stupid pre-snap penalty bumped the distance to about 75 years. I’d like to have seen Reichard attempt that nearly 70-yard kick.