After falling to 3-5, the Vikings desperately needing a win, were able to get back into the win column with a 27-20 victory over the LA Chargers. In my preview I had said, "It will still be a close game and likely come down to the final few drives of the game, eventually leading to a 31-28 victory for the Vikings." Close on my prediction again! The Vikings were missing 6 starters due to Covid and injuries but were finally able to play aggressive and keep a lead much of the game and especially in the second half. In the 4th Quarter and leading 27-20, the Vikings decided to go for it on 4th down, rather than try for a long field goal, and it paid off. The Vikings were able to convert the 4th down and run the rest of the clock out to come out with the victory. Some of the stats from the day include:
QB Cousins: 294 yard, 2 TD, 1 fumble lost
Dalvin Cook: 118 total yards, 1 TD
Justin Jefferson: 9 catches, 143 yards
Adam Thielen: 5 catches, 65 yards
Tyler Conklin: 3 catches, 11 yards, 2 TD
Defense: 2 sacks, 5 passes defended, 6 QB hits, 195 pass yds, 82 rush yds
Overall, this was a much needed positive performance by the whole team. Also, like I mentioned in my preview, SoFi Stadium sounded like a home game for the Vikings as so many of the fans were there cheering on the Vikings. That made a HUGE difference from start to finish in giving the Vikings the victory!
Next up, the Vikings (4-5) will host their division rival Green Bay Packers (8-2) in what should be another very close game from start to finish. Hopefully the Vikings can ride this momentum into this Sunday and get back to .500 with only 7 games remaining in the regular season. The final wild card spot is 100% in reach, but the Vikings are going to need to string some wins together in order to find their spot in the playoffs. Fans are expecting this team to make the playoffs and I know they have the talent to do so. Let's go Vikings, keep flying around and having fun. Beat the Packers this weekend!
Go Vikes!!