EAGAN, Minn. — Justin Jefferson seems to be adjusting to the constant attention he receives from defenders, often facing double and triple coverage. Despite the challenges, he harbors no ill feelings; rather, he views it as a testament to the respect he commands as a playmaker. The strategy opposing teams use is logical, considering his capability to change the game in an instant.
“I would handle it the same way if I were the other team,” Jefferson remarked. “It’s either let everyone else shine or let Justin shine. I’d choose to let the others go off.” As the Vikings prepare for their encounter with Chicago this Sunday, they anticipate facing familiar defensive setups, notably the split-safety coverage that aims to restrict their deep passing threats and confine their options to short, underneath plays.
Jefferson shared that encountering various defensive schemes each week keeps him on his toes. “We see different tendencies week in and week out. Teams may play us entirely differently than what we analyze on film,” he mentioned. Yet, he believes his current coverage challenges are unique. Despite these difficulties, Jefferson currently ranks second in the NFL for receiving yards, totaling 912, only behind Ja’Marr Chase from Cincinnati, his old college teammate at LSU. Recently, he set a milestone by surpassing Torry Holt for the most receiving yards within the initial five seasons of a career—6,811 yards in just 70 games, compared to Holt’s 6,784 yards in 80 games.
“I yearn for those single coverage scenarios,” Jefferson expressed. “I’m eager for chances to catch deep passes one-on-one, similar to the opportunities many other receivers receive. It’s undeniably tough when facing one or two extra defenders, but we adapt, and the strategies we employ to get me open are definitely beneficial.”
With tight end Josh Oliver unavailable due to a sprained ankle, T.J. Hockenson is expected to step up significantly in the upcoming game. Hockenson anticipates that Jefferson will continue to attract heavy double-teams throughout the match. “This puts pressure on us to step up and make plays to draw some attention away from him,” Hockenson noted.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell has been compelled to explore a wider array of play designs and strategies to maintain offensive momentum, especially with quarterback Sam Darnold at the helm. After the Vikings’ narrow 12-7 victory at Jacksonville, where Darnold’s performance included three interceptions, O’Connell acknowledged the need for a revised strategic approach to secure the win.
“It wasn’t just about showcasing our offense or flaunting our intelligence,” O’Connell explained on his weekly KFAN radio show. “Sometimes, it’s essential to adjust your mindset to guarantee a win.” He further emphasized the significance of adapting to the defense’s offerings, stating, “Incorporating fresh ideas and strategies, even those not encountered during previous coaching experiences, is vital.”
Looking beyond traditional approaches is often the key to success in a dynamic game like football.