In a thrilling game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday, the Minnesota Vikings secured a 23-17 victory over the New York Jets, improving their record to a perfect 5-0 for the first time since 2016. The Vikings got off to a strong start, with Andrew Van Ginkel returning the first of Aaron Rodgers’ three interceptions for a 63-yard touchdown. This early lead set the tone for the rest of the game.
The Jets, trailing 17-0 early on, made a valiant effort to come back in the final minutes. However, Stephon Gilmore’s interception of Rodgers’ pass dashed their hopes of a comeback. Despite Rodgers throwing a 1-yard touchdown pass to Garrett Wilson to narrow the gap, the Vikings ultimately held on for the win courtesy of rookie kicker Will Reichard’s 41-yard field goal, his third of the game.
The Jets struggled with a slow start, falling behind 17-0 before managing to get back into the game with Rodgers finding Allen Lazard for a 14-yard touchdown pass late in the first half. However, Rodgers’ three interceptions proved to be costly for the Jets.
Rodgers, who threw two interceptions in the first quarter for the first time in his career, encountered some physical challenges during the game. Despite a hit in the third quarter that left him clutching his left leg, Rodgers displayed resilience and led the Jets in a determined effort to mount a comeback.
Minnesota’s kicker Reichard played a crucial role in securing the win, with a 53-yard and a 54-yard field goal contributing to the Vikings’ points tally. Meanwhile, wide receiver Justin Jefferson stood out with six receptions for 92 yards.
Rodgers reached a significant milestone in the game, becoming the ninth player in NFL history to surpass 60,000 passing yards during regular-season games. Additionally, he climbed to the seventh spot on the NFL’s list for total yards passing in both regular-season and playoff games, overtaking Hall of Famer Dan Marino.
In terms of injuries, both teams faced setbacks during the game. Jets’ CB Sauce Gardner and CB Michael Carter II dealt with injuries, while Vikings’ RB Aaron Jones and QB Sam Darnold also had to leave the game briefly due to health concerns.
Looking ahead, the Jets are set to host the Buffalo Bills next Monday night, while the Vikings will enjoy a bye week before facing the Detroit Lions on Sunday, Oct. 20.
