Minnesota Vikings Week 3 Superlatives

The Minnesota Vikings cruised past the Cincinnati Bengals by the comfortable score of 48-10. It really wasn’t that close. It was an efficient offensive performance and a dominant defensive performance. While the entire team contributed to the big win, three performances clearly stand above the rest.

Offensive Player of the Game

Jordan Mason, RB

The Vikings traded for Jordan Mason in the offseason with this performance in mind. 

16 carries

116 yards

2 TDs

He was a bull throughout the game. It felt like he was rarely slowed at the line and often rampaging through a terrified secondary. After a few years of struggling to run in the red zone, it was refreshing to see touchdown runs of four and five yards.

Honorable Mention

Christian Darrisaw, OT

What a difference a dominant left tackle makes. It was amazing to see Christian Darrisaw return to the field.

Defensive Player of the Game

Isaiah Rodgers, CB

Isaiah Rodgers is going to get all of the defensive superlatives for his ridiculous performance against the Bengals.

87-yard pick-6

66-yard scoop-and-score

2 forced fumbles

1 reception allowed 

2 yards

The Vikings scored six touchdowns against the Bengals. The two biggest and most memorable had Rodgers racing down the sideline. Much like the offseason addition of Jordan Mason, the Vikings targeted Rodgers for his sticky coverage and big-play possibilities.

Special Teams Player of the Game

Will Reichard, K

It’s starting to feel like Will Reichard is the Special Teams Player of the Game every week. He was busy against the Bengals as the Vikings kept scoring. He made all six of his extra point attempts and both field goals. The highlight of his performance was the team- and personal-record 62-yard kick that closed the first half.