Numbers Check: Vikings Win The Season Finale
Josh Frey
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The Vikings ended their season on a high note with a victory over the Detroit Lions this week. Not only did they walk away victorious, but Justin Jefferson ended his season with an NFL rookie record 1400 receiving yards. Here are some numbers that stand out in the win.
7
Not only did Justin Jefferson break the NFL’s rookie receiving record, but he became just the second NFL rookie to break triple digits in seven different games. Odell Beckham was the first back in 2014. While Bill Groman broke 100 yards nine separate times, he accomplished that during the 1960 AFL season with the Houston Oilers. Nonetheless, this statistic is just another testament to how great Jefferson truly was this season. His rookie season will go down as one of the greatest ever.
8
Despite the Vikings high scoring output and victory, it was shocking how much the Lions controlled the line of scrimmage throughout this game. They made eight tackles behind the line of scrimmage, including three first half sacks of Kirk Cousins. The Vikings offensive line is bad, but this was embarrassing. The Lions came into this game ranked in the bottom-six in sacks and second worst in pressure percentage, yet seemingly every single play Cousins was being rushed to get rid of the ball.
100
Marvin Jones broke free a few times in this game on his way to 180 yards and two touchdowns. The Vikings secondary had its struggles once again this week, and it has certainly been one of the bigger complaints this season. However, it may surprise some people to know that this is the first time the Vikings have allowed a 100-yard game for any receiver since their bye in week seven. With an actual offseason and training camp to prepare for the 2021 season, this young secondary could develop into a very good unit.
9
Tyler Conklin and Irv Smith have been a very compelling duo over the final quarter of the season. In the final four games, the two of them combined for nine or more targets three times. They have emerged as legitimate threats in the passing game, and they are also viable blockers. One of my “way too early” predictions for next season is that these two combine for over 1000 yards receiving next year.