Minnesota Vikings Week 5 Superlatives

The Minnesota Vikings defeated the New Orleans Saints on Sunday 23-13. It really wasn’t that close. The Vikings are undefeated at 5-0 as they enter their Week 6 bye. Here are some of the players that made the big win over the Saints possible. 

Offensive Player of the Game

Kyler Murray, QB

The Vikings quarterback finally gets “player of the game” recognition. It’s a very welcome development. Kyler Murray finally looked comfortable and played in rhythm. 

24 completions

30 attempts

229 yards

1 TD

10 carries

51 yards

He converted first downs with his arm and with his legs. There’s a lot of room for improvement but Murray’s play against the Saints is close to the hope that many had when the Vikings signed him in March.

Honorable Mention:

Aaron Jones Sr., RB

Aaron Jones Sr.’s game must be mentioned.

25 carries 

113 yards 

1 TD

Through the first five games, Jones has been the Vikings offensive MVP. With the Week 1 injury to Jordan Mason, the Vikings have leaned on Jones in the run game. And he’s done it while dealing with a knee injury. 

Defensive Player of the Game

Byron Murphy Jr., CB

Once again, the Vikings defensive player of the game can be any of several players. Jalen Redmond, Blake Cashman, Dallas Turner, Eric Wilson. Take your pick. This really is a team defense. Despite all of that, Byron Murphy Jr. is an easy choice. He intercepted two of Tyler Shough’s passes. 

Special Teams Players of the Game

Jake Golday

Jeshaun Jones

Through four games, one of Myles Price and Will Reichard, and often both, were easy special teams choices each week. After ending the first half with a field goal, the Vikings special teams opened the second half with one of the plays of the game. On the second half’s opening kick return, Jake Golday forced a fumble and Jeshaun Jones recovered the football. Just like that, the Vikings had a scoring opportunity on the Saints 37-yard line. Six plays later, Justin Jefferson had a touchdown and the Vikings had a 13-7 lead.