**Vikings Week 10 Report Card: Jags Game**

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Post on Nov 11, 2024

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Vikings Week 10 Report Card: Jags Game

The Minnesota Vikings took on the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 10, emerging victorious in a nail-biting 24-10 win. While the final score suggests a comfortable victory, the game was far from a walk in the park for the Vikings. Here's a breakdown of the Vikings' performance in each key area:

Offense: B+

The Vikings' offense, led by quarterback Kirk Cousins, showcased a balanced attack, utilizing both the passing and running game effectively. Justin Jefferson continued his dominance, racking up over 100 receiving yards and a touchdown. However, the offensive line struggled at times, allowing pressure on Cousins, who was sacked three times.

Highlights:

• Justin Jefferson's 54-yard touchdown reception was a thing of beauty, showcasing his speed and agility.
• Dalvin Cook returned from injury, rushing for over 100 yards and demonstrating his vital role in the Vikings' offense.
• Irv Smith Jr. was a reliable target for Cousins, contributing a touchdown and showing his growing chemistry with the quarterback.

Areas for improvement:

• The offensive line needs to find consistency in pass protection.
• Kirk Cousins could have been more accurate in some of his throws, especially on deep passes.

Defense: A-

The Vikings' defense delivered a dominant performance, stifling the Jaguars' offense and creating turnovers. Patrick Peterson was a standout, recording an interception and playing with the veteran savvy that makes him such a valuable asset. The defense generated pressure on Trevor Lawrence, forcing him into mistakes and limiting the Jaguars' ability to sustain drives.

Highlights:

• Patrick Peterson's interception was a game-changer, halting a potential Jacksonville scoring drive.
• Eric Kendricks led the defense with 13 tackles, showcasing his leadership and consistency.
• The Vikings' secondary played tight coverage, preventing big plays from the Jaguars' receiving corps.

Areas for improvement:

• The Vikings could have been more aggressive in forcing turnovers.
• The run defense occasionally allowed the Jaguars to find some success on the ground.

Special Teams: B

The Vikings' special teams unit played well, with Greg Joseph nailing all of his field goal attempts. However, the punt return game lacked explosiveness, and the kickoff coverage could have been more effective.

Highlights:

• Greg Joseph's reliable kicking was crucial, as he made all four field goal attempts, including a crucial 43-yard field goal.
• The Vikings' punt coverage unit did a decent job, limiting the Jaguars' return opportunities.

Areas for improvement:

• The punt return game needs a spark, with more opportunities to gain yardage.
• The kickoff coverage needs to limit big returns from the opponent.

Coaching: B+

Kevin O'Connell's coaching staff continued to demonstrate their ability to adapt and make adjustments during the game. The Vikings' offense looked well-prepared, and the defense executed the game plan effectively.

Highlights:

• Kevin O'Connell called a balanced game, utilizing both passing and rushing plays effectively.
• The defensive scheme effectively limited the Jaguars' offensive weapons, creating turnovers and preventing big plays.

Areas for improvement:

• The coaching staff could have been more aggressive in challenging certain calls.
• The offensive line needs more coaching to find consistency in pass protection.

Conclusion:

The Vikings' Week 10 victory against the Jaguars was a testament to their resilience and ability to overcome challenges. While the offense was not perfect, it was efficient enough to get the job done. The defense was the real hero, playing a dominant game and securing the victory for the Vikings. As they head into Week 11, the Vikings will be looking to continue their winning ways and solidify their position in the playoff race.