The Minnesota Vikings’ offense had its worst performance of the year, but Brian Flores’ defense held off a comeback from the New York Jets to remain undefeated.
The 23-17 win over New York in the NFL’s first London game of the year moved the Vikings to 5-0 and the Jets to 2-3 on the year.
Aaron Rodgers had a brutal first half with multiple interceptions, including one to Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, who rushed back 63 yards for a pick-six.
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New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers attempts a pass against the Minnesota Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. (Sean Brooks-Image Image)
But with the Vikings stalled for much of the second half, Rodgers found himself with less than three minutes to play on his final drive as he attempted to come back from 17 points or more for the first time in a decade.
Rodgers was finally working his way down the field with quarterback Garrett Wilson, who had a breakout game, and other targets giving him enough time to score a touchdown with the much-needed extra point in Vikings territory. victory.
But on third-and-10 from the Minnesota 26-yard line, Rodgers wanted to throw the ball to Mike Williams on the right sideline. But it was veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore who sealed the win with a strong interception.
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This marked Rodgers’ third interception of the game as he finished 29-for-54 for 244 yards with two touchdowns.
Sam Darnold came into this game saying all the right things about his bad tenure with the Jets in his pre-game press conference. The Jets selected him third overall out of USC six years ago. Against the Vikings, Darnold showed what Jets fans expected, but Gang Green’s defense made it difficult for him in this game.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold throws the ball against the New York Jets at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. (Kirby Lee-Imagna Image)
Darnold had his worst game as a Viking, going 14-for-31 for 179 yards with no touchdowns and an interception.
Justin Jefferson was his top receiver with six catches for 92 yards, but he had 14 targets this time. But plenty of flags were called to hold him at cornerback and prevent pass interference.
It’s also worth noting that veteran running back Aaron Jones had to leave the game in the first half with an injury, which left him a big part of this red-hot Vikings offense.
Nonetheless, the Vikings proved themselves to be a true contender, as despite the shortcomings of the offense, the defense stepped up and made the plays needed to secure the win.
Andrew Van Zinkel of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates scoring after throwing an interception against the New York Jets, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, in London. (AP Photo/Ian Walton)
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As for Wilson and Rodgers’ connection, the speedy receiver had 13 receptions for 101 yards and his core was on 22 targets. If there’s any positive to come from a tough loss, Jets fans will feel good knowing that Rodgers and Wilson finally appear to be on the same page.
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