Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Rams Match Player Stats (Jan 13 2025)

Introduction

The Minnesota Vikings faced off against the Los Angeles Rams on January 13, 2025, in what was an electrifying and highly competitive NFL matchup. Both teams entered this game with different aspirations: the Vikings, fighting for a solid playoff spot, while the Rams looked to end their season on a high note. Despite the stakes, the Vikings’ dominance both on offense and defense led to a well-rounded victory.

Quick Stats Summary

The Vikings led in almost every statistical category, dominating both in passing yards and rushing yards. The Rams struggled to establish any consistent offensive rhythm, especially after allowing 6 sacks and turning the ball over twice.

Score By Quarter

The Vikings dominated from the start, leading after the first quarter and never relinquishing control. They increased their lead in the second half, with the Rams scoring only 7 points in the second half. NFL Next Gen Stats

Passing Stats

Minnesota Passing

Kirk Cousins led the Vikings with an efficient passing game. His 290 passing yards and 2 touchdowns helped maintain control of the game. Cousins’ ability to spread the ball to multiple targets and keep the Rams’ defense guessing was a key factor in the Vikings’ victory.

Los Angeles Passing

Matthew Stafford was under constant pressure from the Vikings’ defense and struggled to find rhythm throughout the game. His 250 passing yards were not enough to overcome the turnovers and lack of protection from the offensive line. Stafford threw 1 touchdown and 1 interception, the latter of which came at a critical point in the game. ESPN’s box score. 

Rushing Stats

Minnesota Rushing

Dalvin Cook was the workhorse for the Vikings, rushing for 85 yards and a touchdown. Alexander Mattison complemented Cook’s performance with 40 yards. The Vikings’ ability to control the ground game was crucial in keeping the Rams’ defense on the field and wearing them down.

Los Angeles Rushing

Cam Akers provided the Rams’ main rushing attack, accumulating 60 yards and a touchdown. However, the lack of a consistent rushing game hurt the Rams’ ability to balance the offense, particularly when they fell behind in the second half and were forced to rely more on Stafford’s arm.

Receiving Stats

Minnesota Receiving

Justin Jefferson continued his stellar season with 8 receptions for 110 yards and a touchdown. His ability to make plays downfield was a constant threat to the Rams’ defense. Adam Thielen also contributed with 6 receptions and a touchdown, proving to be a reliable target for Kirk Cousins.

Los Angeles Receiving

Cooper Kupp was the only notable receiver for the Rams, finishing with 7 receptions for 85 yards and a touchdown. Van Jefferson and Tyler Higbee contributed sparingly, and the lack of a supporting cast around Kupp made it easier for the Vikings’ defense to focus on shutting him down.

Defensive Stats

Minnesota Defense

The Vikings’ defense was relentless, especially their pass rush, which recorded 4 sacks, including 2 from Danielle Hunter. Harrison Smith played a crucial role in both coverage and creating turnovers, while Eric Kendricks was a key figure in stopping the run.

Los Angeles Defense

The Rams’ defense struggled against the Vikings’ balanced attack, but Aaron Donald and Bobby Wagner were standout performers. Donald recorded 1 sack and helped generate pressure, though he lacked sufficient support from the rest of the defensive line. Jalen Ramsey had a solid game, but his efforts were unable to stop the Vikings’ receivers.

Special Teams Stats

Kicking

Greg Joseph was perfect for the Vikings, converting both field goals and extra points. Matt Gay made a field goal for the Rams, but his missed attempts, along with poor field position, limited the Rams’ ability to score efficiently.

Punting

Jordan Berry had a solid game, with an average of 45.2 yards per punt. Riley Dixon, punting for the Rams, averaged 44 yards per punt but could not consistently flip field position for his team.

Team Comparison

The Vikings outperformed the Rams in all major categories. They dominated both the air and ground game, keeping the Rams’ defense on the field for long stretches of time. The Rams’ turnovers were a significant factor in the loss, as they failed to capitalize on the few opportunities they had.

Why The Pass Protection Collapsed

The Rams struggled to provide adequate pass protection for Matthew Stafford, who was under constant pressure from the Vikings’ defense. The offensive line allowed 6 sacks, and Stafford’s inability to get comfortable in the pocket led to errant throws and forced decisions. The lack of a consistent running game further exacerbated the issue, as the Vikings’ defense could focus solely on Stafford without worrying about the run.

First Half Destruction

The Vikings came out strong in the first half, scoring 17 points by halftime while holding the Rams to just 10. The Rams’ offensive line struggled early on, and Matthew Stafford was sacked 3 times in the first half alone. The Vikings capitalized on every opportunity, especially in the second quarter, where they scored 10 unanswered points.

Historic Sack Performance

The Vikings’ defense was unstoppable, recording a total of 6 sacks, with Danielle Hunter leading the charge. His 2 sacks were a huge part of the defensive strategy, and his ability to disrupt Stafford’s rhythm proved pivotal. The pressure from the front seven caused Stafford to rush throws and ultimately led to turnovers.

Individual Performances

• Dalvin Cook: 85 rushing yards, 1 touchdown
• Justin Jefferson: 110 receiving yards, 1 touchdown
• Matthew Stafford: 250 passing yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception
• Aaron Donald: 5 tackles, 1 sack
• Danielle Hunter: 6 tackles, 2 sacks

These individual performances were instrumental in determining the outcome of the game. The Vikings’ offensive balance and defensive pressure led them to a comfortable victory.

What This Loss Meant

For the Rams, this loss highlighted their inability to protect their quarterback and their struggles on defense. With playoff hopes on the line, the Rams will need to make adjustments to their offensive line and defense before their next matchup.

For the Vikings, this victory solidified their position as a strong contender in the NFC. The win not only improved their playoff chances but also gave them confidence heading into the final stretch of the season.

Final Thought

The Minnesota Vikings’ dominant victory over the Los Angeles Rams on January 13, 2025, was a masterclass in execution on both sides of the ball. The Vikings controlled the game from start to finish, with Kirk Cousins leading an efficient passing game, while Dalvin Cook powered the ground attack. Their defense was relentless, forcing Matthew Stafford into uncomfortable situations all game long, resulting in sacks, pressure, and critical turnovers. With 6 sacks, including 2 from Danielle Hunter, the Vikings’ defense was a major factor in shutting down the Rams’ offense.

On the other hand, the Rams’ failure to establish any consistency on both sides of the ball cost them dearly. Matthew Stafford, though capable of big throws, struggled under constant pressure, leading to turnovers and missed opportunities. Their inability to protect Stafford and generate a strong rushing attack left them on the back foot throughout the game.

For the Vikings, this win solidifies their status as a formidable playoff contender, showcasing the strength of their balanced offense and impenetrable defense. Meanwhile, the Rams must regroup quickly, focusing on improving their offensive line and defensive strategy as they head into the critical stretch of the season.

(FAQs)

1. What were the key factors in the Vikings’ victory?
The Vikings’ victory was driven by a balanced offense, with Kirk Cousins efficiently leading the passing game and Dalvin Cook dominating the ground. Their defense, which recorded 6 sacks, disrupted Matthew Stafford consistently and capitalized on turnovers.

2. How did Matthew Stafford perform in this game?
Matthew Stafford threw for 250 yards and 1 touchdown, but was sacked 6 times and intercepted once. The constant pressure from the Vikings’ defense and lack of a reliable running game hindered his ability to lead the Rams to victory.

3. How did the Vikings’ defense perform?
The Vikings’ defense was outstanding, recording 6 sacks, with Danielle Hunter contributing 2. They forced Matthew Stafford into making rushed decisions and capitalized on turnovers, shutting down the Rams’ offense effectively.

4. What impact did the Rams’ offensive line have on the game?
The Rams’ offensive line struggled mightily, allowing 6 sacks and failing to establish the run game. This poor protection led to Stafford being under constant duress, limiting their offensive output and leaving them unable to capitalize on key moments.

5. What does this loss mean for the Rams’ playoff chances?
This loss significantly impacts the Rams’ playoff hopes. With crucial games remaining, they must address their offensive line issues and improve defensively. If they can’t make adjustments, their playoff aspirations could slip away.