NFL Futures: Vikings Conquered London and New York

Share News

NFL Futures and Picks

Vikings Stay Unbeaten with Strong Defense Against the Jets

The Minnesota Vikings continued their undefeated 2024 NFL campaign with a 23-17 win over the New York Jets in London. The game highlighted Minnesota’s strong defense and the Jets’ offensive struggles, particularly with quarterback Aaron Rodgers having an off day. 

The Vikings remain at the top of the NFC standings and are a focal point in NFL Futures discussions. The Jets, meanwhile, must address their offensive issues to stay competitive in the AFC.

Vikings Defense Shines in Crucial Win

The Minnesota Vikings’ defense was the key factor in their victory over the Jets. Led by defensive coordinator Brian Flores, the Vikings’ defense put immense pressure on Rodgers, forcing him to make uncharacteristic mistakes. 

Rodgers threw two first-quarter interceptions for the first time in his career, both coming on back-to-back possessions. Edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel returned one of those interceptions for a touchdown, giving Minnesota an early 10-0 lead. Safety Cam Bynum also picked off Rodgers in the first quarter, further stifling the Jets’ offense.

While Rodgers did find more rhythm later in the game, the Viking’s defense continued to limit the Jets’ effectiveness. New York managed 30 rushing yards on 13 carries and struggled to sustain drives. 

The Vikings sacked Rodgers three times and delivered nine quarterback hits. Still playing at a high level, Stephon Gilmore sealed the game with a crucial interception in the fourth quarter. Minnesota likely wouldn’t have come out on top without the stout defensive play in this contest.

Vikings Offense Struggles Without Aaron Jones

The absence of running back Aaron Jones significantly impacted Minnesota’s offensive performance. Jones left the game in the first half with a hip injury and did not return. The Vikings’ offense appeared disjointed without their lead back, managing only two field goals in the second half. Backup running back Ty Chandler struggled to find room to run, finishing with 30 yards on 14 carries. 

Sam Darnold, solid through the Vikings’ first four games, looked out of sync against the Jets. The offensive line, hampered by penalties and the Jets’ defensive pressure, struggled in pass protection, and Darnold completed just 14 of 31 passes for 179 yards with one interception. The Vikings will need offensive consistency, especially if Jones misses more time.

Jets Miss Opportunity as Rodgers Struggles

Aaron Rodgers had a tough outing, throwing three interceptions, including a game-ending pick on the Jets’ final drive. His first interception was a pick-six in the first quarter, and another ill-advised throw in the second quarter halted any early momentum for the Jets. 

Despite turning it on in the fourth quarter with two touchdown passes to Allen Lazard and Garrett Wilson, Rodgers couldn’t complete the comeback.

Rodgers’ struggles in this game were his worst since joining the Jets, showing signs that he may no longer have the same physical abilities that defined his prime years. The game exposed several issues for New York’s offense, which must regroup quickly to remain competitive in a tough AFC East division.

Jets’ Defense Wasted in the Loss

The Jets’ defense played admirably and did enough to keep the game within reach. They sacked Darnold four times and limited Minnesota to just 4-of-13 on third-down conversions. Cornerback Brandin Echols made an impressive interception in the fourth quarter, giving the Jets a chance to complete a comeback. However, the offensive struggles overshadowed the defense’s strong performance, leaving the Jets with a tough loss in London.

The Jets must capitalize on their defense’s strong play to turn their season around and boost their NFL Futures and picks.