The Minnesota Vikings’ defense had allowed opposing offenses to move the ball at will throughout the regular season. That didn’t change in the playoffs.
On Sunday, they allowed New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones to become the fifth quarterback in the Super Bowl era to throw for 200-plus yards and two or more touchdowns, and rush for 70 or more yards, in a playoff game.
Daniel Jones is the 5th QB in the Super Bowl era with 200+ pass yds, 2+ pass TD & 70+ rush yds in a playoff game.
The others are Josh Allen (2020), Colin Kaepernick (2012), Donovan McNabb (2003), and Steve Young (1992).#TogetherBlue @Giants
— NFL Research (@NFLResearch) January 16, 2023
The Vikings’ season came to an end Sunday as they lost 31-24 at home to the Giants. This was in large part due to the defense’s inability to stop Jones. Jones finished the day going 24 of 35 for 301 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for 78 yards on 17 attempts.
As the Vikings now prepare for the offseason, they’ll need to take a hard look at the defense and the aging veterans they have, and attempt to figure out how they can improve this unit for next season. Something has to change if this team wants to find success next year.