Minnesota Vikings Secure Victory Over 49ers, Suffer Setback with Jefferson Injury

On September 15, 2024, the Minnesota Vikings achieved a 23-17 victory over the San Francisco 49ers at U.S. Bank Stadium. The victory elevates their record to 2-0, marking their best start to a season since 2016. Despite the win, the team faced a significant setback, losing star receiver Justin Jefferson due to a right quad injury sustained during the third quarter.

Justin Jefferson had been a key player in the game, recording four catches for 133 yards and a touchdown before his unfortunate exit. He endured the injury after a hit during a run by Ty Chandler. With the absence of both Jefferson and Jordan Addison, who missed the game due to an ankle injury, the Vikings’ offense will face challenges in the upcoming matches.

The game started strong for Minnesota with a goal line defense that kept the 49ers from scoring on several fourth down attempts. Jefferson’s remarkable 97-yard touchdown reception from Sam Darnold gave the Vikings a 10-0 lead. The play highlighted Jefferson’s skill as he outran two San Francisco defenders.

Another significant moment came from special teams when C.J. Ham blocked a punt, allowing Theo Jackson to recover it and set up Will Reichard‘s field goal, the first points of the game. Additionally, Josh Metellus intercepted a Brock Purdy pass in the third quarter, setting up a subsequent touchdown by Jalen Nailor to extend the lead to 20-7 in favor of the Vikings.

Sam Darnold performed impressively, completing 17 of 26 passes for 268 yards, including two touchdowns and one interception. In the fourth quarter, Darnold led a crucial drive that concluded with a field goal, helped by receivers Jalen Nailor, Brandon Powell, and Trishton Jackson, increasing the lead to 23-14.

The Vikings’ defense was formidable throughout the game, with Pat Jones II achieving two of the team’s five total sacks. Blake Cashman contributed with a sack, 13 tackles, and three pass deflections. Jihad Ward also recovered a fumble, further stifling the 49ers’ offensive efforts, limiting them to a mere 2-of-10 on third down conversions.

The Vikings anticipate their next matchup against the Houston Texans, where they will face former players Danielle Hunter and Stefon Diggs. The team hopes to maintain their winning momentum despite the absence of key players.