Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Rams Match Player Stats

The minnesota vikings vs los angeles rams match player stats tell the story of an electrifying Thursday Night Football showdown that saw the Los Angeles Rams overcome adversity to secure a crucial 30-20 victory at SoFi Stadium on October 24, 2024. With star receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua returning from injury, the Rams’ offense transformed into an unstoppable force, while Matthew Stafford orchestrated a masterclass performance that reminded the NFL world why this team remains dangerous despite early-season struggles.

This pivotal Week 8 clash featured compelling narratives on both sides, as the los angeles rams vs minnesota vikings match player stats highlighted Sam Darnold’s early dominance giving way to Stafford’s veteran brilliance. The Vikings entered with a 5-2 record, seeking to maintain their strong start, but faced a Rams team desperate for momentum. Key storylines included the emotional return of Kupp and Nacua, a controversial late-game safety involving a missed facemask call, and Christian Darrisaw’s devastating knee injury that could impact Minnesota’s season trajectory.

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🏟️ Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Rams Match Player Stats Key Players and Teams Who Took the Field

Teams and Key Players

Game Details

Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring

Additional Breakdown Details

What Was the Event?

This was a Week 8 NFL regular season game during the 2024 campaign, broadcast nationally on Amazon Prime Video’s Thursday Night Football. The matchup carried significant playoff implications for both NFC teams.

Where Was the Match Held?

The game took place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California – the Rams’ state-of-the-art home venue that opened in 2020. The sellout crowd provided an electric atmosphere for the prime-time showdown.

When Did It Take Place?

Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 8:15 PM ET. The game was part of Amazon’s exclusive Thursday Night Football package.

Why Was the Match Significant?

The matchup featured critical playoff positioning implications. The Vikings sought to maintain their strong 5-2 start after suffering their first loss, while the Rams desperately needed momentum after a disappointing 1-4 start. The return of Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua added significant intrigue, potentially transforming the Rams’ offensive capabilities. Additionally, this was a reunion between Rams head coach Sean McVay and Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell, who served as McVay’s offensive coordinator during LA’s Super Bowl championship run.

How Did It Unfold Generally?

The game began with fireworks as both teams scored touchdowns on their opening two possessions, showcasing offensive firepower. Minnesota built a 14-7 first-quarter lead behind Darnold’s perfect start (8-for-8). However, the Rams steadily took control through Stafford’s precision passing to his rejuvenated receiving corps. Los Angeles dominated the final three quarters, holding Minnesota to just two field goals while building an insurmountable lead. A late safety, marred by a controversial missed facemask penalty, sealed the Rams’ 30-20 triumph.

📊 Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown

Quarter 1: Offensive Explosion

Key Moments:

• Both teams scored touchdowns on their first two drives, marking the first time all season the Vikings allowed a first-quarter TD
• Sam Darnold started perfectly, completing his first 8 passes for the Vikings
• Kyren Williams caught a short TD pass from Stafford, extending his touchdown streak to 10 consecutive games
• Josh Oliver and Trent Sherfield hauled in TD receptions for Minnesota
• The Rams broke their season-long drought of not scoring on opening drives

Shifts in Momentum: The quarter belonged to both offenses, though Minnesota held a 14-7 edge. The Vikings appeared poised to dominate after their explosive start, but the Rams’ ability to answer immediately kept them within striking distance.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: No significant injuries in the opening quarter. Both teams operated at full strength with their offensive weapons.

Notable Strategies: Minnesota utilized quick-strike passing to establish offensive rhythm, while the Rams immediately targeted their returning star receivers. Stafford’s comfort level with Kupp and Nacua back was evident, as Los Angeles abandoned the conservative approach that marked their early-season struggles.

Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring:

Extra Insights: The sellout crowd at SoFi Stadium erupted when Kupp and Nacua took the field together for the first time since early in the season. The tempo was frantic, with both teams snapping the ball quickly and attacking aggressively. Weather was not a factor in the indoor stadium.

Quarter 2: Rams Strike Back

Key Moments:

• Stafford connected with his receivers for another touchdown, cutting into Minnesota’s lead
• Christian Darrisaw suffered a significant left knee injury late in the half, a devastating blow to Minnesota’s offensive line
• The Rams’ defense began applying more pressure, foreshadowing their second-half dominance
• Minnesota’s offense started to sputter after their blistering opening

Shifts in Momentum: The Rams closed the gap to 14-14 at halftime, completely erasing Minnesota’s early advantage. The injury to Darrisaw shifted momentum psychologically and physically, as the Vikings lost their starting left tackle.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: Christian Darrisaw’s knee injury forced Minnesota to adjust their offensive line protection schemes. The loss would have ripple effects throughout the remaining game and beyond.

Notable Strategies: Los Angeles adjusted defensively, bringing more pressure and forcing Darnold into quicker decisions. The Rams’ offense continued feeding Kupp and Nacua, building chemistry with each possession.

Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring:

Extra Insights: The halftime atmosphere reflected a game that had completely flipped from Minnesota’s dominant start. Rams fans sensed their team had weathered the early storm and were poised to take control.

Quarter 3: Rams Seize Control

Key Moments:

• Demarcus Robinson caught a 25-yard touchdown pass from Stafford, giving the Rams their first lead of the game
• Minnesota managed only a field goal despite possessing the ball multiple times
• The Rams’ defense clamped down, forcing three-and-outs and limiting big plays
• Stafford’s connection with his receivers reached peak efficiency

Shifts in Momentum: The Rams completely dominated the third quarter, taking a 21-17 lead and never looking back. Minnesota’s offense, so explosive in the first quarter, looked confused and out of rhythm.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: No new significant injuries, but Minnesota continued adjusting to life without Darrisaw protecting Darnold’s blind side.

Notable Strategies: Los Angeles controlled the clock, running the ball effectively with Kyren Williams (who finished with 97 rushing yards) while mixing in explosive passes. Minnesota’s defense couldn’t generate pressure on Stafford without blitzing, leaving their secondary vulnerable.

Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring:

Extra Insights: The crowd noise reached deafening levels as the Rams took the lead. Stafford’s veteran composure was on full display, as he picked apart Minnesota’s defense with surgical precision. The tempo slowed compared to the first quarter, favoring the Rams’ ball-control approach.

Quarter 4: Rams Slam the Door

Key Moments:

• Demarcus Robinson caught his second touchdown of the game, a 10-yard reception that extended the Rams’ lead to 28-20
• Cooper Kupp made a crucial 27-yard reception to convert a key first down and seal the drive
• Byron Young sacked Sam Darnold in the end zone for a safety with 1:36 remaining, though he grabbed Darnold’s facemask on the play – officials didn’t throw a flag
• Minnesota managed only a field goal despite multiple possessions

Shifts in Momentum: The Rams controlled the entire quarter, maintaining possession and forcing Minnesota into desperation mode. The controversial safety eliminated any comeback hopes.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: No new injuries, but fatigue became a factor for Minnesota’s undermanned offensive line.

Notable Strategies: Los Angeles focused on clock management, running the ball effectively and converting crucial third downs. The Rams converted 4-of-10 third downs overall and went 1-for-1 on fourth down. Minnesota abandoned their run game (finishing with just 64 rushing yards) in pursuit of quick points.

Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring:

Extra Insights: The controversial safety sparked immediate debate on social media, with replays clearly showing the facemask violation. However, the outcome was already largely decided by that point. The SoFi Stadium crowd celebrated wildly as the Rams secured back-to-back victories for the first time all season.

🌟 Highlight Standout Performances

Star Players and Their Stats

Shooting Percentages (Completion Rates & Efficiency)

Key Statistics: Sacks, Turnovers, and Impact Plays

Clutch Moments

Matthew Stafford’s Fourth Quarter Mastery: With the game hanging in the balance, Stafford engineered a crucial scoring drive capped by Robinson’s second touchdown. His veteran composure under pressure was the difference-maker.

Cooper Kupp’s Key Conversion: Returning from injury, Kupp hauled in a 27-yard reception on a crucial third down late in the fourth quarter, essentially sealing the victory and demonstrating his clutch gene.

Demarcus Robinson’s Breakout: Robinson’s two touchdown receptions, including a go-ahead score in the third quarter, proved he could step up as a reliable weapon alongside the star receivers.

Byron Young’s Safety: Though controversial due to the uncalled facemask, Young’s sack of Darnold in the end zone for a safety eliminated any comeback hopes with 1:36 remaining.

Leadership and Teamwork

Matthew Stafford’s Leadership: The veteran quarterback elevated everyone around him, demonstrating why he’s a Super Bowl champion. His calm demeanor in the huddle and ability to spread the ball to five different receivers showcased elite leadership.

Cooper Kupp’s Return Impact: Beyond statistics, Kupp’s presence energized the entire offense. His professionalism and work ethic set the tone for the Rams’ resurgence.

Vikings’ Early Resilience: Despite ultimately falling short, Minnesota showed character by jumping out to a 14-7 lead on the road in a hostile environment. Sam Darnold’s early perfection (8-for-8) demonstrated his growth as a leader.

📈 Key Statistics

Final Score

Total Offensive Production

Turnovers

Time of Possession

The Rams controlled the clock for over seven additional minutes, running 16 more plays and dictating the game’s tempo after the first quarter.

Defensive Impact: Sacks, Interceptions, and Pressure

Total Yards Comparison

Advanced Efficiency Metrics

🗣️ Quotes or Reactions

Player Reactions

Matthew Stafford (Rams QB):

“They brought a lot of energy to our team, and a ton of confidence. It was just so much fun. Offensively, we were just able to find ways to keep the sticks moving.”

Stafford’s comments reflected the infectious energy Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua brought back to the offense, transforming the entire team’s outlook.

Cooper Kupp (Rams WR):

“It was just so much fun. Offensively, we were just able to find ways to keep the sticks moving. Guys were just doing their jobs, and it was pretty cool to see us going.”

Kupp emphasized the team-first mentality and execution that defined the Rams’ performance after struggling through the first six games without their star receivers.

Sam Darnold (Vikings QB):

“As an offense, we’ve got to just be more consistent. The facemask, it is what it is. I thought we could have done a lot to not put ourselves in the situation we were in.”

Darnold took accountability while acknowledging the controversial missed call on the safety that sealed Minnesota’s fate.

Coaching Perspectives

Kevin O’Connell (Vikings Head Coach):

“I think we were close on some plays. But when you’re playing against that quarterback, and those receivers getting healthy and getting out there and making some plays for them, I just think it comes down to (whether we) can get enough rush and coverage working together to maybe not give a quarterback like that a couple extra clicks.”

O’Connell, who previously served as the Rams’ offensive coordinator under Sean McVay during their Super Bowl championship run, credited Stafford and the receivers while lamenting his defense’s inability to generate consistent pressure.

Additional Context & Reactions

Controversial Call Discussion

The missed facemask penalty on Byron Young’s game-sealing safety became the primary post-game talking point. Replays clearly showed Young grabbing Darnold’s facemask, which should have negated the safety and given Minnesota the ball with a chance to score. However, officials didn’t throw a flag, leading to widespread criticism.

Social Media Reaction: Fans and analysts across the NFL community immediately questioned the officiating crew’s decision not to call the obvious facemask penalty, though most acknowledged the Rams were the better team regardless of the controversial play.

🧠 Match Analysis

What Went Right & Wrong

Minnesota Vikings – What Went Right:

• Explosive first quarter featuring Sam Darnold’s perfect 8-for-8 start and two touchdown drives
• Justin Jefferson’s continued excellence with 115 yards on 8 receptions
• Zero turnovers, maintaining ball security throughout
• Early defensive success preventing big plays in the first quarter

Minnesota Vikings – What Went Wrong:

• Offensive collapse after the first quarter, scoring just 6 points in the final three quarters
• Complete inability to protect Sam Darnold, allowing 3 sacks for 28 lost yards
• Darrisaw’s devastating knee injury severely compromised offensive line integrity
• Defensive breakdown allowing Stafford to dissect coverage with precision
• Abandoned the run game (64 total rushing yards) too early
• Poor third-down conversion rate (28.6%) stalled multiple drives
• Red zone inefficiency (50%), failing to capitalize on scoring opportunities

Los Angeles Rams – What Went Right:

• Return of Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua transformed the offense
• Matthew Stafford’s masterful 4-touchdown performance
• Perfect red zone efficiency (3-for-3) capitalizing on every opportunity
• Kyren Williams’ consistent production (97 rushing yards, 1 TD)
• Demarcus Robinson’s breakout two-touchdown performance
• Controlled time of possession (33:37 vs 26:23)
• Defensive pressure generating 3 sacks and constant harassment
• Sean McVay’s play-calling exploited matchups brilliantly

Los Angeles Rams – What Went Wrong:

• One turnover (Stafford interception) kept Vikings in striking distance
• Slow first quarter start allowing Minnesota to build 14-7 lead
• Penalties (6 for 40 yards) occasionally stalled drives
• Third-down conversion rate (40%) could have been better
• Controversial safety involved clear uncalled facemask penalty

Offensive Successes and Failures

Vikings Offense:

Rams Offense:

Defensive Successes and Failures

Vikings Defense:

Rams Defense:

Controversial Calls or Game-Changing Moments

The Uncalled Facemask Safety (1:36 remaining): The most controversial moment occurred when Byron Young sacked Sam Darnold in the Vikings’ end zone for a safety, clearly grabbing Darnold’s facemask in the process. Officials failed to throw a flag, which would have negated the safety and given Minnesota the ball with a chance to score. While the Rams were winning comfortably, the missed call drew immediate criticism and became a major talking point.

Impact Assessment:

• Vikings would have received the ball instead of surrendering 2 points
• Minnesota trailing 28-20 could have potentially cut the lead to 28-27 with a touchdown
• However, only 1:36 remained with no timeouts, making a comeback unlikely

Christian Darrisaw’s Injury (Late Q2): The Vikings’ starting left tackle suffered a significant left knee injury in the second half, forcing Minnesota to adjust their protection schemes. This game-changing injury not only impacted this game but potentially the Vikings’ entire season trajectory.

Cooper Kupp & Puka Nacua Returns: While not controversial, the returns of both star receivers from multi-game injuries completely transformed the Rams’ offensive capabilities. Their presence opened up the entire playbook and allowed Stafford to operate at peak efficiency.

Rams’ First-Drive Touchdown: Breaking a season-long streak of not scoring on opening drives, the Rams set the tone by answering Minnesota’s touchdown with one of their own, preventing an early momentum shift.

Recent Form & Context

Minnesota Vikings (5-2 entering, 5-3 after):

• Coming off their first loss of the season
• Started season 5-0 before consecutive defeats
• Sam Darnold enjoying career resurgence
• Defense had not allowed first-quarter touchdown before this game
• Playoff aspirations strong but concerning defensive trends emerged

Los Angeles Rams (2-4 entering, 3-4 after):

• Struggled mightily without Kupp and Nacua (1-4 in first 5 games)
• Won back-to-back games for first time all season
• Stafford had thrown just 3 TD passes in first 6 games combined
• Desperate for momentum to salvage playoff hopes
• This victory potentially marked turning point in season

Head Coaching Storyline: Sean McVay faced his former offensive coordinator Kevin O’Connell for the first time. O’Connell helped orchestrate the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI championship as OC before taking the Vikings head coaching job. McVay won the chess match, outdueling his former protégé.

🏁 Conclusion

The minnesota vikings vs los angeles rams match player stats paint a vivid picture of a game that shifted dramatically after Minnesota’s explosive opening quarter. While the Vikings raced to a 14-7 lead behind Sam Darnold’s flawless start, the Los Angeles Rams demonstrated championship resilience by dominating the final three quarters en route to a crucial 30-20 victory.

Matthew Stafford’s four-touchdown masterpiece, combined with the emotional returns of Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, transformed the Rams from a struggling 2-4 team into a dangerous playoff contender. The veteran quarterback’s surgical precision (279 yards, 73.5% completion rate) and the perfect red zone execution (3-for-3) highlighted an offense that finally resembled the unit that captured Super Bowl LVI.

For Minnesota, this loss exposed concerning vulnerabilities. The Vikings’ inability to sustain their first-quarter dominance, coupled with Christian Darrisaw’s potentially season-ending knee injury, raises questions about their championship aspirations. Despite Justin Jefferson’s 115-yard performance, the Vikings managed just two field goals after halftime – an alarming collapse that cost them a winnable road game.

Playoff Implications: The Rams’ victory kept their playoff hopes alive, improving to 3-4 and demonstrating they remain formidable with a healthy receiving corps. Minnesota fell to 5-3, still positioned well but with emerging defensive issues that could derail their season without addressing protection breakdowns.

What’s Next: The Rams traveled to Seattle on November 3rd seeking a third consecutive victory and further momentum in the competitive NFC West. Meanwhile, the Vikings needed to regroup and address their offensive line crisis while finding answers for why their defense collapsed after a promising start.

This Thursday Night Football showcase proved that in the NFL, having your weapons healthy makes all the difference – and that Matthew Stafford, when armed with elite receivers, remains one of the league’s most dangerous quarterbacks.

❓ FAQs Section

Q1: What was the final score of the Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Rams game?

The Los Angeles Rams defeated the Minnesota Vikings 30-20 on Thursday Night Football, October 24, 2024, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

Q2: Who were the top performers in the Vikings vs Rams match?

Matthew Stafford led all performers with 279 passing yards and 4 touchdowns for the Rams. Justin Jefferson led the Vikings with 115 receiving yards on 8 catches. Puka Nacua (106 yards) and Kyren Williams (97 rushing yards, 1 TD) also starred for Los Angeles, while Sam Darnold threw for 240 yards and 2 TDs for Minnesota.

Q3: What happened with the controversial safety call at the end?

Byron Young sacked Sam Darnold in the end zone for a safety with 1:36 remaining, but clearly grabbed Darnold’s facemask on the play. Officials did not throw a flag for the facemask penalty, which became controversial. However, the Rams were already leading 28-20, making a Vikings comeback unlikely regardless.

Q4: How did Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua perform in their return from injury?

Cooper Kupp caught 5 passes for 51 yards and 1 touchdown in his return from a four-game absence. Puka Nacua was even more impressive, posting 106 yards on 7 receptions after missing the previous five games – his 8th career 100-yard receiving game. Their returns completely transformed the Rams’ offensive capabilities.

Q5: What impact did Christian Darrisaw’s injury have on the Vikings?

Vikings starting left tackle Christian Darrisaw suffered a left knee injury late in the first half, forcing Minnesota to adjust their offensive line protection. His absence contributed to the Vikings allowing 3 sacks and struggling to protect Sam Darnold throughout the remainder of the game. The injury potentially impacts Minnesota’s season outlook.

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