The league’s leading receiver goes against one of its worst pass defenses. Justin Jefferson’s trip to Jacksonville has bettors already envisioning that signature touchdown dance — arms swinging and heels tapping in syncopated rhythm.
Last week, Jefferson torched a different AFC South opponent, the Colts, with seven catches and 137 yards on Sunday Night Football. But he’s certainly not the only threat on the 6-2 Minnesota Vikings. Sam Darnold is having, far and away, his best professional season. Aaron Jones has been an all-purpose revelation. Head coach Kevin O’Connell’s offense is ninth in third-down conversion rate and seventh in red zone percentage. Top to bottom, the Vikings are one of the most balanced teams in football.
.@JJettas2 knew from the jump he was winning that matchup.
đź“ş: https://t.co/RRggf5v3Mi pic.twitter.com/F5BcdS8dEG
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 6, 2024
This is a nightmare matchup for the 2-7 Jaguars, who sit 30th in scoring defense. The Jags have a pair of elite pocket crashers in Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen, but the rest of the unit is underwhelming at best. The paltry pass defense ranks worst in the league in expected points contributed. Opposing quarterbacks have thrown 19 touchdowns to just two interceptions.
Trevor Lawrence is still in a holding pattern through four years under center. He’s put together the worst completion percentage since his rookie season, and his struggles are particularly accentuated on third down. The Jaguars will be tested by a complex and spirited Vikings defense, where coordinator Brian Flores has unleashed havoc through coverage disguises and the highest blitz rate in the NFL. Minnesota shouldn’t take any games for granted, though — it is one of three NFC North teams with at least six wins already.
One week after he was traded to the Vikings to replace injured left tackle Christian Darrisaw, longtime Jaguar Cam Robinson returns to Jacksonville. He played eight seasons in teal and gold.
How to watch Minnesota Vikings at Jacksonville Jaguars
Venue: EverBank Stadium — Jacksonville Time: 1 p.m. ET TV: FOX Streaming: Fubo (try for free) Watching in-person? Get tickets on StubHub.
