Vikings Dominate Bears, Hand Chicago Their Eighth Consecutive Loss

This week marked a defining moment for the Minnesota Vikings. Once doubted for their odds to achieve a winning season due to uncertainty at quarterback, the Vikings have officially entered the conversation as one of the NFC’s top contenders. After securing a playoff berth earlier in the weekend, Minnesota solidified their position with a decisive 30-12 victory over the Chicago Bears on Monday night at U.S. Bank Stadium, extending Chicago’s losing streak to eight games.

The Vikings’ win elevated their record to 12-2, placing them in a statistical deadlock with the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles atop the NFC standings. If Minnesota wins their remaining three games, they could clinch the NFC North division title and potentially secure the No. 1 seed in the conference—a possibility that hinges on the Eagles’ performance and tie-breaking scenarios in the final stretch.

Minnesota’s defense dominated, holding Chicago out of the end zone until late in the fourth quarter, long after the Vikings had substituted many of their starters. Their offense shined as well, showcasing its depth with rushing touchdowns from both Aaron Jones and Cam Akers – the first time this season Minnesota managed multiple touchdowns on the ground.

Star receiver Justin Jefferson contributed significantly, hauling in seven catches for 73 yards and a touchdown.

Vikings’ Key Performances and Concerns

Sam Darnold’s Mixed Night Under Center

Following intense scrutiny surrounding his future with the team, quarterback Sam Darnold delivered one of his least accurate outings of the season. Darnold completed just 16 passes while accumulating his second-highest incompletions (16) in a single game this year. His struggles weren’t entirely self-inflicted, as Justin Jefferson dropped a clear touchdown in the second quarter. Still, according to ESPN Research, Darnold recorded six off-target throws, tying for his second most in 2024.

Jefferson’s Unstoppable Touchdown

NFL Next Gen Stats revealed an impressive statistic: Jefferson’s first-quarter touchdown catch was his most open scoring play in years. The Bears’ defenders gave Jefferson a 4-yard cushion on his 7-yard touchdown reception—a surprising lapse for Chicago’s struggling secondary.

Injury Woes at Tackle

Right tackle Brian O’Neill suffered a right knee injury during the first half, forcing him in and out of the lineup. O’Neill’s absence disrupted Minnesota’s pass protection, exacerbating the issue as left tackle Christian Darrisaw remains sidelined for the season. With critical games ahead, O’Neill’s health could be pivotal to Minnesota’s offensive consistency.