New York Jets vs. Minnesota Vikings: Match Player Stats Breakdown
The New York Jets and Minnesota Vikings have delivered an exciting game for football fans, packed with action and memorable performances. Let’s take a closer look at the player stats that defined this clash between two teams that have consistently shown their potential on the field.
Quarterbacks: The Leaders of the Offense
New York Jets: Zach Wilson
Zach Wilson, the young and promising Jets quarterback, has been under the spotlight throughout the season, and this game was no different. Facing a Vikings defense known for their pass rush, Wilson’s performance was critical to the Jets’ offensive success.
- Passing Yards: 220 yards
- Completion Percentage: 60% (22 completions on 37 attempts)
- Touchdowns: 1 TD
- Interceptions: 1 INT
- Passer Rating: 85.3
Wilson showed flashes of brilliance, hitting some crucial deep passes to stretch the Vikings’ defense. However, the interception in the third quarter halted some of the Jets' momentum when they were driving toward the red zone.
Minnesota Vikings: Kirk Cousins
Kirk Cousins, the veteran quarterback, led the Vikings’ offense with precision. Known for his consistency, Cousins once again demonstrated why he's one of the most dependable quarterbacks in the league.
- Passing Yards: 285 yards
- Completion Percentage: 68% (26 completions on 38 attempts)
- Touchdowns: 2 TDs
- Interceptions: 0 INT
- Passer Rating: 110.4
Cousins was methodical, connecting with his top receivers and avoiding turnovers. His experience and poise under pressure were key in keeping the Vikings offense moving, especially in critical third-down situations.
Running Backs: Ground Game Performance
New York Jets: Breece Hall
The Jets’ running game, led by Breece Hall, was pivotal in balancing the offense. Hall’s ability to break tackles and create yards after contact provided much-needed support to the passing game.
- Rushing Yards: 85 yards (on 18 carries)
- Average Yards per Carry: 4.7
- Touchdowns: 1 TD
- Receptions: 4 receptions for 25 yards
Hall’s 1-yard touchdown run in the second quarter gave the Jets an early lead. His dual-threat capability as both a runner and a receiver made him a central figure in the offense.
Minnesota Vikings: Alexander Mattison
With Dalvin Cook no longer on the roster, Alexander Mattison stepped up as the lead back for the Vikings. While he didn’t break many big runs, his consistent gains helped keep the Jets defense honest.
- Rushing Yards: 78 yards (on 20 carries)
- Average Yards per Carry: 3.9
- Touchdowns: 0 TDs
- Receptions: 3 receptions for 19 yards
Mattison’s contributions weren’t flashy, but they were effective in wearing down the Jets' defensive front and controlling the clock.
Wide Receivers: Star Performers in the Air
New York Jets: Garrett Wilson
Garrett Wilson has been Zach Wilson’s favorite target all season, and this game was no exception. His ability to create separation and make tough catches in traffic was on full display.
- Receptions: 7
- Receiving Yards: 110 yards
- Average Yards per Catch: 15.7
- Touchdowns: 1 TD
Wilson’s 35-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter was one of the game’s highlights, showing his elite route-running and after-the-catch ability.
Minnesota Vikings: Justin Jefferson
Justin Jefferson, one of the best wide receivers in the league, continued his dominant form. His ability to make explosive plays in the passing game was a constant threat to the Jets’ secondary.
- Receptions: 9
- Receiving Yards: 145 yards
- Average Yards per Catch: 16.1
- Touchdowns: 1 TD
Jefferson’s 50-yard catch-and-run in the fourth quarter set up a crucial touchdown drive that sealed the game for the Vikings. His connection with Cousins is one of the most dangerous in the NFL.
Defensive Standouts: Who Dominated on Defense?
New York Jets: C.J. Mosley
The leader of the Jets’ defense, C.J. Mosley, was everywhere on the field, making key stops and helping to limit the Vikings’ running game.
- Tackles: 10 total tackles
- Sacks: 1 sack
- Tackles for Loss: 2
Mosley’s leadership and intelligence were on display as he frequently disrupted the Vikings’ offensive rhythm. His sack on Cousins late in the second quarter helped keep the game close.
Minnesota Vikings: Danielle Hunter
Danielle Hunter was a constant presence in the Jets’ backfield, applying pressure on Zach Wilson and contributing to the Vikings’ stout defense.
- Tackles: 8 total tackles
- Sacks: 2 sacks
- Tackles for Loss: 3
Hunter’s two sacks were momentum-shifters, especially his strip-sack in the fourth quarter, which led to a Vikings field goal. His dominance on the edge was one of the key reasons the Vikings defense held strong.
Special Teams Impact
New York Jets: Greg Zuerlein (Kicker)
Zuerlein had a solid game, connecting on both of his field-goal attempts and all extra points.
- Field Goals: 2/2 (Longest: 48 yards)
- Extra Points: 2/2
His reliable leg kept the Jets within striking distance throughout the game.
Minnesota Vikings: Greg Joseph (Kicker)
Joseph had a near-perfect day, hitting both of his field goals and all extra points, including a critical 52-yarder that extended the Vikings’ lead late in the fourth quarter.
- Field Goals: 2/2 (Longest: 52 yards)
- Extra Points: 3/3
Conclusion: A Hard-Fought Battle
The New York Jets and Minnesota Vikings put on a competitive and entertaining show, with standout performances on both sides of the ball. Zach Wilson’s development continues to be a work in progress, while Kirk Cousins’ experience and leadership guided the Vikings to victory. On defense, both teams had playmakers, but the Vikings’ timely sacks and Justin Jefferson’s game-changing plays made the difference.
The matchup was a reminder of the depth of talent in the NFL and the fine margins that separate victory from defeat. Both teams can take away positives from the game, but it was the Vikings who came out on top this time.
This breakdown of player stats gives you a glimpse into how each individual contributed to this thrilling contest. Keep following for more detailed analysis and breakdowns of NFL games!
