In the New York Jets vs. Minnesota Vikings matchup on October 6, 2024, several players showcased their skills in a hard-fought contest at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.

The Vikings emerged victorious, 20-10, thanks to some critical performances on both sides of the ball.

The Vikings’ defense came out strong early in the game. Andrew Van Ginkel had a standout play, intercepting a pass from Aaron Rodgers and returning it 63 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter.

That play set the tone for the Vikings, giving them a quick 10-0 lead. Rodgers, who is usually reliable under pressure, struggled early on, but his performance improved as the game progressed.

C.J. Ham, the Vikings’ powerful fullback, added another score in the second quarter with a 2-yard rushing touchdown, pushing the Vikings ahead 17-0.

Ham’s short-yardage runs were vital in controlling the clock and keeping the Jets’ defense on the field.

For the Jets, their offensive spark came just before halftime. Aaron Rodgers connected with wide receiver Allen Lazard for a 14-yard touchdown pass, giving the Jets their first points of the game.

Lazard’s reliable hands and Rodgers’ accuracy helped them close the gap to 17-7 by halftime.

Greg Zuerlein, the Jets’ kicker, contributed with a 32-yard field goal in the third quarter, bringing the score to 17-10.

Zuerlein’s consistency was key, especially as the Jets’ offense struggled to convert on third downs.

However, the Vikings’ defense tightened up in the fourth quarter, limiting the Jets to just those 10 points.

Kirk Cousins, the Vikings’ veteran quarterback, didn’t have flashy numbers in this game but was efficient in managing the offense.

He avoided turnovers, which proved crucial in a game where the Vikings relied on their defense and special teams for big plays.

Cousins made key third-down throws to keep the chains moving and maintain possession in the second half.

On the ground, the Vikings’ rushing attack was led by Alexander Mattison, who churned out hard-fought yards against the Jets’ front seven.

Although Mattison didn’t find the end zone, his tough running allowed the Vikings to control the clock and keep the Jets’ offense off the field for long stretches.

The Jets’ defense, led by Quinnen Williams, did their best to pressure Cousins and stuff the Vikings’ run game.

Williams was a force in the trenches, disrupting plays and collecting a sack. However, the Jets struggled to create turnovers, which could have swung momentum in their favor.

Special teams played a critical role in this matchup as well. Vikings kicker Will Reichard nailed a 54-yard field goal in the first quarter, demonstrating his leg strength.

Reichard’s kicking was important in giving the Vikings early momentum and adding insurance points later in the game with a fourth-quarter field goal, sealing the 20-10 victory.

In terms of receiving, Jordan Addison led the way for the Vikings, grabbing key receptions that helped keep drives alive, although he didn’t score in this game.

Meanwhile, for the Jets, Garrett Wilson was Rodgers’ top target, making several catches, but he was largely kept in check by the Vikings’ secondary.