The storied rivalry between the minnesota vikings vs chicago bears match player stats has always been a highlight in the NFL calendar. Their recent clash on December 16, 2024, was no exception, showcasing exceptional talent, strategic plays, and memorable moments. This article delves into the detailed player statistics from that game, offering insights into individual performances that shaped the outcome.
Game Overview
On December 16, 2024, the Minnesota Vikings hosted the Chicago Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The Vikings emerged victorious with a commanding 30-12 win, bolstering their position in the NFC North division.
Quarterback Performance
Minnesota Vikings: Sam Darnold
Sam Darnold led the Vikings’ offense with precision and poise. His performance was instrumental in securing the win.
- Passing Yards: 330
- Touchdowns: 2
- Interceptions: 0
- Completion Rate: 23 completions on 35 attempts
Darnold’s ability to maintain composure under pressure and deliver accurate passes was a testament to his experience and skill.
Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams
Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams faced a formidable Vikings defense but showcased resilience throughout the game.
- Passing Yards: 340
- Touchdowns: 2
- Interceptions: 0
- Completion Rate: 32 completions on 48 attempts
Despite the loss, Williams’ performance highlighted his potential and promise for the Bears’ future.
Receiving Corps
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings’ receivers played a pivotal role in the game’s outcome, with notable contributions from:
- Jordan Addison
- Receptions: 8
- Yards: 162
- Touchdowns: 1
- Addison’s explosive plays and ability to find gaps in the Bears’ defense made him a standout performer.
- Justin Jefferson
- Receptions: 6
- Yards: 82
- Touchdowns: 1
- Jefferson continued to demonstrate why he’s considered one of the league’s elite receivers, consistently making critical catches.
- T.J. Hockenson
- Receptions: 7
- Yards: 114
- Touchdowns: 0
- Hockenson’s reliability as a tight end provided Darnold with a dependable target, especially in third-down situations.
Chicago Bears
The Bears’ receiving unit also had notable performances:
- D.J. Moore
- Receptions: 8
- Yards: 46
- Touchdowns: 0
- Moore’s agility and route-running were evident, though the Vikings’ defense limited his yardage after the catch.
- R. Odunze
- Receptions: 2
- Yards: 39
- Touchdowns: 0
- Odunze showcased potential with key receptions that advanced the Bears’ field position.
Rushing Attack
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings’ ground game complemented their aerial assault:
- Ty Chandler
- Attempts: 15
- Yards: 78
- Touchdowns: 1
- Chandler’s consistent gains on the ground helped control the game’s tempo and provided balance to the Vikings’ offense.
Chicago Bears
The Bears faced challenges establishing an effective rushing attack:
- D’Andre Swift
- Attempts: 10
- Yards: 35
- Touchdowns: 0
- Swift struggled to find open lanes against a stout Vikings defensive front.
Minnesota Vikings
Defensive Standouts
The Vikings’ defense was instrumental in stifling the Bears’ offense:
- Jonathan Greenard
- Tackles: 4
- Sacks: 2
- Tackles for Loss: 4
- Greenard’s relentless pressure disrupted the Bears’ backfield, leading to critical stops.
- Harrison Smith
- Tackles: 11
- Sacks: 0
- Interceptions: 0
- Smith’s veteran presence and leadership were evident as he anchored the secondary with decisive plays.
Chicago Bears
Despite the loss, several Bears defenders made significant contributions:
- Kevin Byard
- Tackles: 13
- Sacks: 0
- Interceptions: 0
- Byard’s efforts in the secondary were crucial in limiting deep passes and providing support against the run.
- Montez Sweat
- Tackles: 3
- Sacks: 1
- Interceptions: 0
- Sweat’s pass-rushing abilities resulted in a key sack, showcasing his impact on the defensive line.
Special Teams Performance
Special teams often play a pivotal role in determining field position and scoring opportunities.
Minnesota Vikings
- Kicker: Will Reichard
- Field Goals Made: 3/3
- Longest Field Goal: 52 yards
- Extra Points: 3/3
- Total Points: 12
- Reichard’s accuracy provided the Vikings with essential points, extending their lead and maintaining momentum.
- Punter: Ryan Wright
- Punts: 2
- Average Yards per Punt: 52.0
- Longest Punt: 55 yards
- Wright’s punting ensured the Bears started their drives deep in their own territory, adding pressure to their offense.
Chicago Bears
- Kicker: Cairo Santos
- Field Goals Made: 2/2
- Longest Field Goal: 39 yards
- Extra Points: 0/0
- Total Points: 6
- Santos remained reliable, converting both field goal attempts to keep the Bears within reach.
- Punter: Tory Taylor
- Punts: 3
- Average Yards per Punt: 47.
