The Minnesota Vikings are boat racing the Green Bay Packers, and wide receiver Justin Jefferson is adding to his ridiculous highlight reel.
With the Vikings leading 21-0 and 5:28 left in the second quarter, Minnesota quarterback Sam Darnold launched a 14-yard pass into the end zone. Although Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon was all over Jefferson, he managed to create some separation and secure the TD catch.
The Vikings lead the Packers 28-7 at halftime. In the first half, Jefferson had two catches for 19 yards and one TD.
One storyline heading into this matchup was the brewing rivalry between Jefferson and Packers CB Jaire Alexander. In a Week 17 loss in 2022, Alexander mocked Jefferson’s Griddy TD celebration. Last season, they didn’t face each other because Jefferson was out with a hamstring tear for the first matchup while Alexander was suspended for the second, via ESPN’s Kevin Seifert.
However, fans who were awaiting their matchup will likely have to wait. Before kickoff, Alexander was ruled out with quad and groin issues, per Pro Football Talk’s Josh Alper. Jefferson may get another shot against Alexander in a Week 17 home game against Green Bay.
Regardless, Jefferson keeps showing why he deserved his four-year, $140M contract extension. Additionally, he could help Minnesota start 4-0, which would give them an early edge in a highly competitive NFC North.
