MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Vikings experienced an exceptional performance as they took control in the fourth quarter, with Justin Jefferson urging the home crowd to amplify their support for a defense that consistently pressured the Houston Texans throughout their 34-7 victory.
Quarterback Sam Darnold tied his career high with four touchdown passes, while the undefeated Vikings intercepted C.J. Stroud twice and sacked him four times. “That’s something I could get used to for sure,” said Jefferson. “We just dominated all around. Defense is definitely the number one reason.”
Jonathan Greenard excelled on defense, recording three sacks against Stroud, the 2023 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. The Vikings (3-0) effectively unsettled the Texans (2-1) with their aggressive defensive strategy, bolstered by a lively crowd at U.S. Bank Stadium. “I couldn’t hear myself talk out there, so imagine for the offense having to check their protections,” noted Cam Bynum, who intercepted Stroud in the fourth quarter.
Darnold connected with Jefferson and Aaron Jones for touchdowns in the first quarter, and later delivered scoring passes to Jalen Nailor and Johnny Mundt. Jones had a standout performance, rushing for 102 yards on 19 carries and adding five receptions for 46 yards. The Vikings, regarded as likely bottom feeders of the NFC North, began their home slate with victories against contenders San Francisco and Houston, achieving their largest margin of victory in five years.
“I think we’re made of the right stuff,” said coach Kevin O’Connell. “We’ve just got to keep proving it.” Darnold completed 17 of 28 passes for 181 yards without any turnovers, tying his career-high with a three-game winning streak as a starter. He briefly left the game for a knee check but returned to applause from the crowd.
The Vikings improved their all-time record against the Texans to 6-0. The Texans finally scored with under four minutes left in the third quarter with a Stroud touchdown pass to Cam Akers, who made his first start with the team after previously playing for the Vikings. Stroud finished the game with 20 completions on 31 attempts for 215 yards, recording his first interception in 10 starts.
Minnesota’s first defensive pressure on Stroud resulted in an interception by Kamu Grugier-Hill, who returned it to the Texans’ 21-yard line. Darnold connected with Jefferson soon after for the first touchdown. The Vikings maintained a high level of respect for Houston’s talent, especially Stroud as a highly regarded draft pick, but their own defense proved effective.
“The Texans helped the Vikings a lot,” coach DeMeco Ryans remarked, noting the impact of crowd noise and pre-snap penalties that disrupted Houston’s rhythm.
Stefon Diggs led the Texans with 10 catches for 94 yards in his return to Minnesota, reflecting on how he had seen numerous offenses struggle in similar conditions. Meanwhile, Houston’s top receiver entering the game, Nico Collins, managed only four receptions for 86 yards, thanks to Minnesota’s effective coverage.
Injury updates revealed that the Texans were without Joe Mixon (ankle) and backup RB Dameon Pierce (hamstring). The Vikings had several inactive players, including WR Jordan Addison (ankle) and LB Ivan Pace Jr. (quad, ankle).
Looking ahead, the Texans will host the Jacksonville Jaguars next Sunday, while the Vikings will travel to Green Bay for their next game.