San Francisco 49ers vs Minnesota Vikings Match Player Stats: A Complete Breakdown (Sep 15 2024)

Introduction

The San Francisco 49ers’ trip to Minnesota on September 15, 2024, was set to be a showdown of high-powered offenses and aggressive defenses. The 49ers, fresh off a dominant season, had their sights set on continuing their championship run, led by Brock Purdy and their explosive offensive and defensive lines. The Minnesota Vikings, on the other hand, were eager to build on their solid 2024 campaign and establish themselves as contenders in the NFC North. The stakes were high, with both teams looking to make an early statement and show that they were among the elite.

The atmosphere at U.S. Bank Stadium was electric as both teams took to the field. The Vikings, with their stellar quarterback, Kirk Cousins, and one of the best receivers in the league, Justin Jefferson, hoped to challenge the 49ers’ dominant defense and powerful offense. For the 49ers, Brock Purdy was given the challenge of proving that his success in 2023 wasn’t just a flash in the pan. The game turned out to be a thrilling back-and-forth affair, with key moments of brilliance and breakdowns from both teams. But in the end, the Minnesota Vikings emerged victorious in a 23-17 battle, capitalizing on a stifling defense and clutch offensive plays that proved too much for the 49ers.

Game Summary

The Minnesota Vikings pulled off a 23-17 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in a game full of dramatic momentum swings. The 49ers took an early lead, but Minnesota’s defense tightened up in the second half, forcing Brock Purdy into several difficult situations. Kirk Cousins had a solid performance, completing 23 of 30 passes for 250 yards and 1 touchdown, distributing the ball well across his receiving corps. The standout player for the Vikings was Justin Jefferson, who put on a show with 10 receptions for 160 yards, but his day was cut short due to an injury in the 4th quarter.

For the 49ers, Brock Purdy struggled under pressure, completing 22 of 35 passes for 210 yards, 1 touchdown, and 2 interceptions. The 49ers’ running game, led by Christian McCaffrey, was relatively ineffective, rushing for only 80 yards. Fred Warner played a stellar defensive game with 12 tackles and 1 interception, but the 49ers’ defense was unable to contain the Vikings’ offensive surge in the second half. In the end, the Vikings’ defense, including Harrison Smith and Za’Darius Smith, shut down the 49ers’ offense late, sealing the game with key turnovers and red zone stops.

The Quarterback Battle

The quarterback battle between Brock Purdy and Kirk Cousins was a focal point of the game, as both QBs were crucial to their team’s success. Purdy, coming off a strong 2023 season, was expected to continue his high level of play. However, he struggled under the pressure from the Vikings’ defense, especially in the second half. Meanwhile, Cousins remained steady, despite facing pressure from the 49ers’ front seven.

Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers)

Player	Completions	Attempts	Yards	Touchdowns	Interceptions
Brock Purdy	22	35	210	1	2

Brock Purdy completed 22 of 35 passes for 210 yards, throwing 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions. While he showed flashes of brilliance, his inability to handle the Vikings’ pass rush and pressure in critical moments was a determining factor in the 49ers’ loss.

Kirk Cousins (Minnesota Vikings)

Player	Completions	Attempts	Yards	Touchdowns	Interceptions
Kirk Cousins	23	30	250	1	0

Kirk Cousins completed 23 of 30 passes for 250 yards, including 1 touchdown. Despite the 49ers’ defense applying consistent pressure, Cousins was efficient, moving the ball effectively in the first half and limiting mistakes.

Team Statistics

Category	San Francisco 49ers	Minnesota Vikings
Total Yards	320	375
Passing Yards	210	250
Rushing Yards	80	125
Turnovers	2	1
Penalties	5	6
Sacks Allowed	4	2
Time of Possession	28:00	32:00

The Minnesota Vikings had the upper hand in terms of total yardage and time of possession. While San Francisco struggled with their rushing attack, Minnesota was able to control the clock with efficient passing and a balanced run game.

Game Snapshot

Key Players

Player	Team	Key Contribution
Brock Purdy	San Francisco 49ers	210 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT
Kirk Cousins	Minnesota Vikings	250 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT
Christian McCaffrey	San Francisco 49ers	80 rushing yards, 1 TD
Justin Jefferson	Minnesota Vikings	160 yards, 1 TD

This game snapshot shows the main players who contributed significantly to the game. While McCaffrey played well, he was held to just 80 yards. Jefferson, though injured, had a career performance, keeping the Vikings’ offense moving efficiently.

Possession vs Production

Category	San Francisco 49ers	Minnesota Vikings
Total Yards	320	375
Plays Run	60	65
Average Gain per Play	5.3	5.8
Time of Possession	28:00	32:00

Although the 49ers had fewer plays, their inability to capitalize on offensive production was evident, while the Vikings capitalized on extended drives, moving the ball consistently.

Complete Team Statistics

Category	San Francisco 49ers	Minnesota Vikings
First Downs	18	22
Rushing Yards	80	125
Passing Yards	210	250
Total Yards	320	375
Turnovers	2	1
Sacks	4	2
Penalties	5	6

Sam Darnold’s Performance Against Former Team

In relief of Brock Purdy, Sam Darnold had a mixed performance, completing 5 of 7 passes for 65 yards. He struggled to find consistency in passing mechanics, as the Vikings’ defense intensified its pressure late in the game.

Vikings Offensive Production

The Vikings’ offense was led by Kirk Cousins, who threw for 250 yards and 1 touchdown, effectively managing the clock. The run game contributed 125 yards, with Isiah Pacheco leading the way, including a key touchdown in the second half.

Justin Jefferson’s Record Day Cut Short

Justin Jefferson had an electrifying game, finishing with 160 yards and 1 touchdown. Unfortunately, his day was cut short after he suffered an injury in the 4th quarter, which could potentially impact the Vikings moving forward.

Fred Warner’s Two-Turnover Game Wasted

Fred Warner showcased his defensive prowess by recording 12 tackles and forcing 2 turnovers, but despite his strong performance, the 49ers’ defense couldn’t contain the Vikings’ offense in key moments.

49ers Offensive Statistics

Player	Completions	Attempts	Yards	Touchdowns	Interceptions
Brock Purdy	19	28	210	1	1
Sam Darnold	5	7	65	0	0

Jordan Mason Steps Up Without McCaffrey

Jordan Mason, in the absence of Christian McCaffrey, contributed with 80 yards on 22 carries. Although he showed potential, he couldn’t make the explosive runs needed to shift the game in favor of the 49ers.

Third Down Execution Decided Outcome

The 49ers’ inability to convert on third downs was a major factor in their loss. They managed only 3 of 12 third-down conversions, while the Vikings were successful on 8 of 13 (61.5%).

Key Efficiency Metrics

Metric	San Francisco 49ers	Minnesota Vikings
Offensive Efficiency (EPA)	0.14	0.30
Defensive Efficiency (EPA)	0.25	0.22
Red Zone Conversion %	50%	66.7%

Blake Cashman’s 13-Tackle Performance

Blake Cashman was the defensive star for the Vikings, registering 13 tackles and constantly disrupting 49ers’ plays. He provided the leadership in the linebacker corps that helped contain McCaffrey and Purdy.

Defensive Statistics Comparison

Player	Tackles	Sacks	Interceptions
Fred Warner	12	1	1
Blake Cashman	13	0	0

Special Teams Swung Early Momentum

The Vikings’ special teams made key plays early in the game, including a pinned punt that allowed Cousins to start with excellent field position.

Complete Scoring Summary

Quarter	San Francisco 49ers	Minnesota Vikings
1st Quarter	7	10
2nd Quarter	3	7
3rd Quarter	7	6
4th Quarter	0	7

97-Yard Touchdown Broke Game Open

Justin Jefferson delivered a 97-yard touchdown reception, breaking the game open for the Vikings and solidifying their lead.

Joshua Metellus Intercepts Deflected Pass

Late in the game, Joshua Metellus intercepted a deflected pass from Purdy, sealing the victory for the Vikings.

Isaac Yiadom’s Two Fumble Recoveries

Isaac Yiadom was instrumental in the Vikings’ victory, recovering two key fumbles, one of which set up a touchdown in the second half.

Brock Purdy Under Constant Pressure

Brock Purdy was under constant pressure from the Vikings’ pass rush, resulting in 2 sacks and multiple forced throws. Despite showing potential, his performance was marred by mistakes.

Passing Statistics Comparison

Player	Completions	Attempts	Yards	Touchdowns	Interceptions
Brock Purdy	19	28	210	1	1
Kirk Cousins	23	30	250	1	0

Turnover Breakdown

Team	Interceptions	Fumble Recoveries
San Francisco 49ers	1	2
Minnesota Vikings	1	1

Receiving Production Beyond Jefferson

While Justin Jefferson was the main receiver, K.J. Osborn and T.J. Hockenson contributed with key catches, making it difficult for the 49ers’ defense to focus on just Jefferson.

Minnesota Vikings Pass Catchers

Receiver	Receptions	Yards	Touchdowns
Justin Jefferson	10	160	1
K.J. Osborn	4	45	0

San Francisco 49ers Pass Catchers

Receiver	Receptions	Yards	Touchdowns
Brandon Aiyuk	5	75	1
George Kittle	4	55	0

Injuries Affected Both Rosters

Injuries played a significant role in the game. Jefferson’s injury late in the game was a turning point, while Christian McCaffrey’s absence limited the 49ers’ offensive attack.

Historical Context: Minnesota Dominates at Home

The Vikings have historically performed well at home, and this game was no different. Their home-field advantage helped them withstand the 49ers’ strong early start and maintain control through the final quarter.

(FAQs)

1. What was the key factor in the Vikings’ victory?
The Vikings’ defense, particularly their pass rush and turnovers, combined with Kirk Cousins’ efficiency, led to the 49ers’ loss.

2. How did Brock Purdy perform?
Brock Purdy had a solid start but struggled with pressure from the Vikings’ defense, finishing with 1 touchdown and 1 interception.

3. How did Justin Jefferson contribute to the Vikings’ offense?
Justin Jefferson put on a record-setting performance, with 10 receptions for 160 yards and 1 touchdown, but his injury limited his contributions late.

4. What role did Isaac Yiadom play in the game?
Isaac Yiadom played a crucial role with two fumble recoveries, one of which directly contributed to a touchdown for the Vikings.

5. How did the 49ers’ offense perform without McCaffrey?
The 49ers struggled without McCaffrey, with Jordan Mason stepping up but not making a major impact in the running game.

Final Analysis: Vikings 23, 49ers 17

In a hard-fought battle, the Minnesota Vikings emerged victorious with a 23-17 win over the San Francisco 49ers. Despite some strong individual performances from Brock Purdy and Fred Warner, the Vikings’ balance, particularly on defense, proved to be the difference in this matchup. Kirk Cousins managed the game efficiently, Justin Jefferson dominated when healthy, and the Vikings’ defense contained San Francisco’s offense when it counted most.