The Minnesota Vikings improved to 2-0 following a 23-17 victory against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium. The team is optimistic that Justin Jefferson’s right quad injury, sustained in the third quarter, is not serious.
Jefferson exited the game after a hit to his leg from Fred Warner during a run by Ty Chandler. He did not return after heading to the locker room but concluded the game with four receptions, totaling 133 yards and a touchdown. After the game, Jefferson reassured everyone of his condition, saying, “Not overly concerned. Just a little thigh bruise, contusion, whatever you want to call it. Something that happens a lot. I’ll be ready next Sunday.”
The significance of this is heightened by the absence of Jordan Addison, making Jefferson’s potential loss even more impactful. The Vikings secured their home opener against a formidable opponent that reached the NFC Championship and Super Bowl last season.
Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell expressed pride in his team’s performance, stating, “When you play the defending NFC Conference champions, you know you’re signing up for a 12-round heavyweight fight. I love this team… If you can’t tell, I’m absolutely exhausted.”
A standout moment in the game came after the Vikings halted a goal line attempt, finding themselves pinned at their own 3-yard line. Quarterback Sam Darnold connected with Jefferson for a remarkable 97-yard touchdown pass that showcased Jefferson’s ability to evade two defenders. O’Connell highlighted the significance of the call, admitting it took some “self-talk” to decide on such a daring play. Jefferson commented on the impressive throw, remarking, “It was a great ball by Sam. Always dreamt of a 95-plus larder.”
The Vikings also made impressive defensive stops, converting two fourth downs in the first half. One notable play came on a 4th and goal from the 2-yard line, where Andrew Van Ginkel tipped Brock Purdy’s pass, resulting in a turnover.
In the special teams department, C.J. Ham blocked a punt that Theo Jackson recovered, leading to the team’s initial scoring with a field goal from Will Reichard.
The Vikings extended their lead in the third quarter when Josh Metellus intercepted a Purdy pass, setting up a 10-yard touchdown from Darnold to Jalen Nailor that put the score at 20-7. Darnold’s final stats included 17 completions on 26 attempts for 268 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, culminating in a fourth-quarter drive that resulted in a field goal and a 23-14 lead with 3:30 left.
Defensively, Pat Jones II recorded two sacks, bringing his season total to four, while Blake Cashman contributed significantly with 13 tackles and a sack. The Vikings’ defense was effective, recording five sacks and restricting the 49ers to 2-of-10 on third down conversions.
Looking ahead, the Vikings will welcome the Houston Texans next Sunday, where former Vikings players Danielle Hunter and Stefon Diggs will make their appearances in Minneapolis.