The Minnesota Vikings vs Seahawks Match Player Stats faced off in an electrifying Week 16 matchup of the 2024 NFL season at Lumen Field on December 22, 2024. The game ended with a thrilling 27-24 victory for the Vikings, keeping them in contention for the top NFC seed. This article dives into the player stats, standout performances, and key moments from this high-stakes game, presented in a way that’s easy to read and understand for fans of all ages. Whether you’re a die-hard football enthusiast or just curious about the numbers, we’ve got you covered with a detailed, SEO-friendly breakdown.
Game Overview: A Nail-Biter at Lumen Field
The Vikings, coming into the game with a 12-2 record, were riding a seven-game winning streak and had already clinched a playoff berth. The Seahawks, at 8-6, were fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive in the NFC West. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both quarterbacks—Sam Darnold for the Vikings and Geno Smith for the Seahawks—delivering clutch performances. The deciding moment came late in the fourth quarter when Darnold connected with Justin Jefferson for a 39-yard touchdown, securing the win for Minnesota. Let’s break down the player stats and what made this game so memorable.
Quarterback Performances: Darnold and Smith Shine
Sam Darnold (Minnesota Vikings)
Sam Darnold was the hero for the Vikings, showing poise under pressure and leading a crucial fourth-quarter comeback. His stats for the game were impressive:
-
Completions/Attempts: 24/37 (64.9% completion rate)
-
Passing Yards: 246 yards
-
Touchdowns: 3
-
Interceptions: 0
-
Rushing: 9 yards on 1 carry
Darnold’s ability to stay calm in the pocket, even after taking big hits, was key. He spread the ball effectively, targeting star receivers like Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. His 39-yard touchdown pass to Jefferson with under four minutes left was the game-winner, showcasing his ability to make big plays in critical moments. Darnold also showed toughness, bouncing back from a hard hit by Jarran Reed and a facemask penalty by Byron Murphy II to lead the go-ahead drive.
Geno Smith (Seattle Seahawks)
Geno Smith put up a valiant effort for the Seahawks, nearly matching Darnold throw for throw. His stat line was equally strong:
-
Completions/Attempts: 30/40 (75% completion rate)
-
Passing Yards: 313 yards
-
Touchdowns: 3
-
Interceptions: 2
-
Rushing: 8 yards on 1 carry
Smith’s performance was highlighted by his precision, especially on a 25-yard touchdown pass to DK Metcalf and an 18-yard touchdown to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. However, his two interceptions—one in the second quarter to Dallas Turner and another late in the game to Theo Jackson—proved costly. Despite the loss, Smith’s ability to march the Seahawks down the field against one of the NFL’s best defenses was notable.
Receiving Corps: Jefferson and Metcalf Steal the Show
Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings)
Justin Jefferson was the standout performer for the Vikings, proving why he’s one of the NFL’s elite wide receivers. His stats were jaw-dropping:
-
Receptions: 10
-
Receiving Yards: 144
-
Touchdowns: 2
-
Yards After Catch (YAC): 67
Jefferson’s two touchdowns included a 14-yard score in the second quarter and the game-winning 39-yard catch in the fourth. His ability to get open against Seattle’s secondary, even when double-covered, was remarkable. He also moved past Anthony Carter for fifth on Minnesota’s all-time receptions list during the game, cementing his status as a franchise legend.
Jordan Addison (Minnesota Vikings)
Jordan Addison complemented Jefferson well, contributing to the Vikings’ passing attack:
-
Receptions: 5
-
Receiving Yards: 35
-
Touchdowns: 1
Addison’s 5-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter opened the scoring for Minnesota. While his yardage wasn’t as high as Jefferson’s, his ability to convert a fourth-and-4 to T.J. Hockenson kept the Vikings’ opening drive alive.
DK Metcalf (Seattle Seahawks)
On the Seahawks’ side, DK Metcalf was a force, giving the Vikings’ secondary fits:
-
Receptions: 7
-
Receiving Yards: 99
-
Touchdowns: 1
Metcalf’s 25-yard touchdown in the second quarter tied the game at 7-7. His physicality and speed made him a constant threat, though a late-game miscommunication with Smith led to the interception that sealed Seattle’s fate.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seattle Seahawks)
Jaxon Smith-Njigba had a breakout performance, reaching a career milestone:
-
Receptions: 8
-
Receiving Yards: 97
-
Touchdowns: 1
Smith-Njigba’s 18-yard touchdown in the second quarter brought the Seahawks within three points at halftime. His spectacular catch over the middle and ability to run precise routes helped him surpass 1,000 receiving yards for the season.
Running Game: Steady but Not Dominant
Aaron Jones (Minnesota Vikings)
Aaron Jones, the former Green Bay Packer, had a solid but not spectacular day on the ground:
-
Rushing Attempts: 18
-
Rushing Yards: 67
-
Yards Per Carry: 3.7
-
Receiving: 3 receptions, 26 yards
Jones’s 67 rushing yards were hard-earned against a tough Seattle front. His contributions in the passing game added versatility to the Vikings’ offense, but the Seahawks’ defense did a good job limiting his explosiveness.
Kenneth Walker III (Seattle Seahawks)
Kenneth Walker III led the Seahawks’ rushing attack:
-
Rushing Attempts: 12
-
Rushing Yards: 45
-
Yards Per Carry: 3.8
-
Receiving: 2 receptions, 17 yards
Walker’s feisty running style was evident, especially on a key conversion on a checkdown pass. However, the Vikings’ defense kept him in check, preventing any big runs that could have shifted the game’s momentum.
Defensive Standouts: Sacks and Interceptions Make the Difference
Andrew Van Ginkel (Minnesota Vikings)
Linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel was a game-changer for the Vikings’ defense:
-
Sacks: 2
-
Tackles: 6
-
Tackles for Loss: 2
Van Ginkel’s second sack in the fourth quarter turned a first-and-10 into a second-and-17, forcing Seattle into a long field goal attempt that Jason Myers missed. His ability to disrupt Geno Smith’s rhythm was crucial in Minnesota’s comeback.
Byron Murphy Jr. (Minnesota Vikings)
Cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. didn’t record an interception but was a menace in coverage:
-
Tackles: 4
-
Pass Deflections: 2
Murphy’s tight coverage on Seattle’s receivers limited their big-play opportunities. His physicality, including a controversial facemask penalty on Darnold, showed his aggressive style.
Boye Mafe (Seattle Seahawks)
Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe made his presence felt:
-
Sacks: 1
-
Tackles: 5
-
Tackles for Loss: 1
Mafe’s sack on Darnold in the second quarter forced the Vikings into a field goal attempt, keeping Seattle in the game. His speed off the edge was a constant challenge for Minnesota’s offensive line.
Special Teams: Reichard and Myers Deliver
Will Reichard (Minnesota Vikings)
Rookie kicker Will Reichard was perfect on the day:
-
Field Goals: 2/2 (52 yards, 48 yards)
-
Extra Points: 3/3
Reichard’s 52-yard field goal in the second quarter gave the Vikings a 17-7 lead, and his reliability under pressure was a key factor in the tight contest.
Jason Myers (Seattle Seahawks)
Jason Myers was also effective, though a late miss proved costly:
-
Field Goals: 1/2 (43 yards, missed 60 yards)
-
Extra Points: 3/3
Myers’ 43-yard field goal tied the game at 17-17 in the third quarter, but his 60-yard attempt late in the fourth fell short, sealing Seattle’s fate.
Key Moments That Shaped the Game Minnesota Vikings vs Seahawks Match Player Stats
-
Vikings’ Opening Drive: Minnesota set the tone with a 12-play, 70-yard drive, capped by Addison’s 5-yard touchdown. Converting a fourth-and-4 to Hockenson showed their aggressive play-calling.
-
Seahawks’ Response: Seattle answered with a 7-play, 87-yard drive, ending with Metcalf’s 25-yard touchdown. Smith’s precision passing kept the Seahawks competitive early.
-
Geno Smith’s Interception: In the second quarter, Dallas Turner intercepted Smith, leading to a 52-yard field goal by Reichard that gave the Vikings a 17-7 lead.
-
Seahawks’ Halftime Push: Down 17-7, Smith led a two-minute drill, going 5/5 for 88 yards and finding Smith-Njigba for an 18-yard touchdown to make it 17-14 at halftime.
-
Fourth-Quarter Drama: Seattle took a 24-20 lead with a 4-yard touchdown pass to AJ Barner. However, Darnold’s 39-yard strike to Jefferson flipped the script, and Theo Jackson’s interception of Smith sealed the 27-24 victory.
Minnesota Vikings vs Seahawks Match Player Stats Team Comparison
|
Category |
Vikings |
Seahawks |
|---|---|---|
|
Total Yards |
359 | 383 |
|
Passing Yards |
246 | 313 |
|
Rushing Yards |
113 | 70 |
|
Third-Down Conversions |
3/12 | 2/10 |
|
Turnovers |
0 | 2 |
|
Time of Possession |
31:45 | 28:15 |
The Vikings’ ability to avoid turnovers and capitalize on Seattle’s mistakes was a deciding factor. Despite being outgained in total yards, Minnesota’s efficiency in the red zone and clutch plays on defense made the difference.
Why This Game Mattered Minnesota Vikings vs Seahawks Match Player Stats
For the Vikings, the win improved their record to 13-2, keeping them neck-and-neck with the Detroit Lions for the NFC’s top seed. It also marked the first time in franchise history that head coach Kevin O’Connell recorded 13 or more wins in two separate seasons. For the Seahawks, the loss dropped them to 8-7, putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy as they fell a game behind the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC West.
Player Spotlight: Unsung Heroes
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T.J. Hockenson (Vikings): The tight end had 2 receptions for 27 yards, including a crucial toe-tap catch on fourth-and-3 that kept the Vikings’ first touchdown drive alive.
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AJ Barner (Seahawks): The rookie tight end scored a 4-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter, giving Seattle a brief lead.
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Ryan Wright (Vikings): The punter averaged 50.0 yards on six punts, pinning four inside the Seahawks’ 20-yard line, which helped control field position.
What’s Next for Minnesota Vikings vs Seahawks Match Player Stats Both Teams?
The Vikings (13-2) face the Chicago Bears in Week 17, looking to maintain their momentum and secure the NFC’s top seed. The Seahawks (8-7) travel to face the Bears next, followed by a crucial divisional matchup against the Rams in Week 18. Seattle’s playoff hopes hinge on winning out and getting help from other results.
Conclusion: A Game Defined by Clutch Plays
The Minnesota Vikings vs Seahawks Match Player Stats matchup was a showcase of elite quarterback play, explosive receivers, and timely defensive stops. Sam Darnold and Justin Jefferson’s connection proved to be the difference, while Geno Smith and DK Metcalf kept the Seahawks in the fight until the final moments. The player stats tell the story of a closely contested game where every yard and every play mattered. Whether you’re a Vikings fan celebrating the win or a Seahawks supporter hoping for a playoff push, this game was a reminder of why NFL football is so thrilling.
The Minnesota Vikings vs Seahawks Match Player Stats faced off in an electrifying Week 16 matchup of the 2024 NFL season at Lumen Field on December 22, 2024. The game ended with a thrilling 27-24 victory for the Vikings, keeping them in contention for the top NFC seed. This article dives into the player stats, standout performances, and key moments from this high-stakes game, presented in a way that’s easy to read and understand for fans of all ages. Whether you’re a die-hard football enthusiast or just curious about the numbers, we’ve got you covered with a detailed, SEO-friendly breakdown.
Game Overview: A Nail-Biter at Lumen Field
The Vikings, coming into the game with a 12-2 record, were riding a seven-game winning streak and had already clinched a playoff berth. The Seahawks, at 8-6, were fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive in the NFC West. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both quarterbacks—Sam Darnold for the Vikings and Geno Smith for the Seahawks—delivering clutch performances. The deciding moment came late in the fourth quarter when Darnold connected with Justin Jefferson for a 39-yard touchdown, securing the win for Minnesota. Let’s break down the player stats and what made this game so memorable.
Quarterback Performances: Darnold and Smith Shine
Sam Darnold (Minnesota Vikings)
Sam Darnold was the hero for the Vikings, showing poise under pressure and leading a crucial fourth-quarter comeback. His stats for the game were impressive:
-
Completions/Attempts: 24/37 (64.9% completion rate)
-
Passing Yards: 246 yards
-
Touchdowns: 3
-
Interceptions: 0
-
Rushing: 9 yards on 1 carry
Darnold’s ability to stay calm in the pocket, even after taking big hits, was key. He spread the ball effectively, targeting star receivers like Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. His 39-yard touchdown pass to Jefferson with under four minutes left was the game-winner, showcasing his ability to make big plays in critical moments. Darnold also showed toughness, bouncing back from a hard hit by Jarran Reed and a facemask penalty by Byron Murphy II to lead the go-ahead drive.
Geno Smith (Seattle Seahawks)
Geno Smith put up a valiant effort for the Seahawks, nearly matching Darnold throw for throw. His stat line was equally strong:
-
Completions/Attempts: 30/40 (75% completion rate)
-
Passing Yards: 313 yards
-
Touchdowns: 3
-
Interceptions: 2
-
Rushing: 8 yards on 1 carry
Smith’s performance was highlighted by his precision, especially on a 25-yard touchdown pass to DK Metcalf and an 18-yard touchdown to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. However, his two interceptions—one in the second quarter to Dallas Turner and another late in the game to Theo Jackson—proved costly. Despite the loss, Smith’s ability to march the Seahawks down the field against one of the NFL’s best defenses was notable.
Receiving Corps: Jefferson and Metcalf Steal the Show
Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings)
Justin Jefferson was the standout performer for the Vikings, proving why he’s one of the NFL’s elite wide receivers. His stats were jaw-dropping:
-
Receptions: 10
-
Receiving Yards: 144
-
Touchdowns: 2
-
Yards After Catch (YAC): 67
Jefferson’s two touchdowns included a 14-yard score in the second quarter and the game-winning 39-yard catch in the fourth. His ability to get open against Seattle’s secondary, even when double-covered, was remarkable. He also moved past Anthony Carter for fifth on Minnesota’s all-time receptions list during the game, cementing his status as a franchise legend.
Jordan Addison (Minnesota Vikings)
Jordan Addison complemented Jefferson well, contributing to the Vikings’ passing attack:
-
Receptions: 5
-
Receiving Yards: 35
-
Touchdowns: 1
Addison’s 5-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter opened the scoring for Minnesota. While his yardage wasn’t as high as Jefferson’s, his ability to convert a fourth-and-4 to T.J. Hockenson kept the Vikings’ opening drive alive.
DK Metcalf (Seattle Seahawks)
On the Seahawks’ side, DK Metcalf was a force, giving the Vikings’ secondary fits:
-
Receptions: 7
-
Receiving Yards: 99
-
Touchdowns: 1
Metcalf’s 25-yard touchdown in the second quarter tied the game at 7-7. His physicality and speed made him a constant threat, though a late-game miscommunication with Smith led to the interception that sealed Seattle’s fate.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seattle Seahawks)
Jaxon Smith-Njigba had a breakout performance, reaching a career milestone:
-
Receptions: 8
-
Receiving Yards: 97
-
Touchdowns: 1
Smith-Njigba’s 18-yard touchdown in the second quarter brought the Seahawks within three points at halftime. His spectacular catch over the middle and ability to run precise routes helped him surpass 1,000 receiving yards for the season.
Running Game: Steady but Not Dominant
Aaron Jones (Minnesota Vikings)
Aaron Jones, the former Green Bay Packer, had a solid but not spectacular day on the ground:
-
Rushing Attempts: 18
-
Rushing Yards: 67
-
Yards Per Carry: 3.7
-
Receiving: 3 receptions, 26 yards
Jones’s 67 rushing yards were hard-earned against a tough Seattle front. His contributions in the passing game added versatility to the Vikings’ offense, but the Seahawks’ defense did a good job limiting his explosiveness.
Kenneth Walker III (Seattle Seahawks)
Kenneth Walker III led the Seahawks’ rushing attack:
-
Rushing Attempts: 12
-
Rushing Yards: 45
-
Yards Per Carry: 3.8
-
Receiving: 2 receptions, 17 yards
Walker’s feisty running style was evident, especially on a key conversion on a checkdown pass. However, the Vikings’ defense kept him in check, preventing any big runs that could have shifted the game’s momentum.
Defensive Standouts: Sacks and Interceptions Make the Difference
Andrew Van Ginkel (Minnesota Vikings)
Linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel was a game-changer for the Vikings’ defense:
-
Sacks: 2
-
Tackles: 6
-
Tackles for Loss: 2
Van Ginkel’s second sack in the fourth quarter turned a first-and-10 into a second-and-17, forcing Seattle into a long field goal attempt that Jason Myers missed. His ability to disrupt Geno Smith’s rhythm was crucial in Minnesota’s comeback.
Byron Murphy Jr. (Minnesota Vikings)
Cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. didn’t record an interception but was a menace in coverage:
-
Tackles: 4
-
Pass Deflections: 2
Murphy’s tight coverage on Seattle’s receivers limited their big-play opportunities. His physicality, including a controversial facemask penalty on Darnold, showed his aggressive style.
Boye Mafe (Seattle Seahawks)
Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe made his presence felt:
-
Sacks: 1
-
Tackles: 5
-
Tackles for Loss: 1
Mafe’s sack on Darnold in the second quarter forced the Vikings into a field goal attempt, keeping Seattle in the game. His speed off the edge was a constant challenge for Minnesota’s offensive line.
Special Teams: Reichard and Myers Deliver
Will Reichard (Minnesota Vikings)
Rookie kicker Will Reichard was perfect on the day:
-
Field Goals: 2/2 (52 yards, 48 yards)
-
Extra Points: 3/3
Reichard’s 52-yard field goal in the second quarter gave the Vikings a 17-7 lead, and his reliability under pressure was a key factor in the tight contest.
Jason Myers (Seattle Seahawks)
Jason Myers was also effective, though a late miss proved costly:
-
Field Goals: 1/2 (43 yards, missed 60 yards)
-
Extra Points: 3/3
Myers’ 43-yard field goal tied the game at 17-17 in the third quarter, but his 60-yard attempt late in the fourth fell short, sealing Seattle’s fate.
Key Moments That Shaped the Game
-
Vikings’ Opening Drive: Minnesota set the tone with a 12-play, 70-yard drive, capped by Addison’s 5-yard touchdown. Converting a fourth-and-4 to Hockenson showed their aggressive play-calling.
-
Seahawks’ Response: Seattle answered with a 7-play, 87-yard drive, ending with Metcalf’s 25-yard touchdown. Smith’s precision passing kept the Seahawks competitive early.
-
Geno Smith’s Interception: In the second quarter, Dallas Turner intercepted Smith, leading to a 52-yard field goal by Reichard that gave the Vikings a 17-7 lead.
-
Seahawks’ Halftime Push: Down 17-7, Smith led a two-minute drill, going 5/5 for 88 yards and finding Smith-Njigba for an 18-yard touchdown to make it 17-14 at halftime.
-
Fourth-Quarter Drama: Seattle took a 24-20 lead with a 4-yard touchdown pass to AJ Barner. However, Darnold’s 39-yard strike to Jefferson flipped the script, and Theo Jackson’s interception of Smith sealed the 27-24 victory.
Minnesota Vikings vs Seahawks Match Player Stats Team Comparison
|
Category |
Vikings |
Seahawks |
|---|---|---|
|
Total Yards |
359 | 383 |
|
Passing Yards |
246 | 313 |
|
Rushing Yards |
113 | 70 |
|
Third-Down Conversions |
3/12 | 2/10 |
|
Turnovers |
0 | 2 |
|
Time of Possession |
31:45 | 28:15 |
The Vikings’ ability to avoid turnovers and capitalize on Seattle’s mistakes was a deciding factor. Despite being outgained in total yards, Minnesota’s efficiency in the red zone and clutch plays on defense made the difference.
Why This Game Mattered
For the Vikings, the win improved their record to 13-2, keeping them neck-and-neck with the Detroit Lions for the NFC’s top seed. It also marked the first time in franchise history that head coach Kevin O’Connell recorded 13 or more wins in two separate seasons. For the Seahawks, the loss dropped them to 8-7, putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy as they fell a game behind the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC West.
Player Spotlight: Unsung Heroes
-
T.J. Hockenson (Vikings): The tight end had 2 receptions for 27 yards, including a crucial toe-tap catch on fourth-and-3 that kept the Vikings’ first touchdown drive alive.
-
AJ Barner (Seahawks): The rookie tight end scored a 4-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter, giving Seattle a brief lead.
-
Ryan Wright (Vikings): The punter averaged 50.0 yards on six punts, pinning four inside the Seahawks’ 20-yard line, which helped control field position.
What’s Next for Minnesota Vikings vs Seahawks Match Player Stats Both Teams?
The Vikings (13-2) face the Chicago Bears in Week 17, looking to maintain their momentum and secure the NFC’s top seed. The Seahawks (8-7) travel to face the Bears next, followed by a crucial divisional matchup against the Rams in Week 18. Seattle’s playoff hopes hinge on winning out and getting help from other results.
Conclusion: A Game Defined by Clutch Plays
The Minnesota Vikings vs Seahawks Match Player Stats matchup was a showcase of elite quarterback play, explosive receivers, and timely defensive stops. Sam Darnold and Justin Jefferson’s connection proved to be the difference, while Geno Smith and DK Metcalf kept the Seahawks in the fight until the final moments. The player stats tell the story of a closely contested game where every yard and every play mattered. Whether you’re a Vikings fan celebrating the win or a Seahawks supporter hoping for a playoff push, this game was a reminder of why NFL football is so thrilling.