The Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions played in what may go down as the game of the year for both teams in Week 7. It was a back-and-forth affair, with the Lions securing victory with just 15 seconds to go but the Vikings to make it difficult for them.
The Vikings struggled in the first half before making major halftime adjustments to allow them to come back into the game. The defense also disrupted Jared Goff and scored a defensive touchdown in the second half.
This performance has a lot to unpack; let’s do our best, do our teacher’s work, and grade this performance.
Oct 20, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold (14) looks on during the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Grade: B+
The first half for Sam Darnold started a bit conservative and slow but the second half Kevin O’Connell took the training harness of his arm. He finished with 259 passing yards and a touchdown while completing 81% of his passes. He had one bad turnover in the second half but never made a bad decision in terms of passing in the second half.
Oct 20, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones (33) runs the ball against the Detroit Lions during the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
Grade: A
Aaron Jones has become the lifeblood of this Vikings offense. Another game with over 100 total yards of offense, his fourth of the year. He does more than just pad the boxscore as he also provides pass protection for Darnold. Ty Chandler and Cam Akers were no-shows though in terms of help so that stops this position from an A+.
Oct 20, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) tries to reach for a pass that falls incomplete as Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold (0) defends during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
Grade: B+
Jalen Nailor made some splash plays, Johnny Mundt had some taken back on penalties, but Justin Jefferson stole the show. He had seven catches for 81 yards and one touchdown that will make his career highlight reel when they look back on it.
Oct 20, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell looks on during the first quarter against the Detroit…
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