The Arizona Cardinals vs Minnesota Vikings Match Player Stats on December 1, 2024, was one of the most tightly contested NFL games of the season. The Minnesota Vikings edged out the Cardinals 23–22, pulling off a late-game comeback that left fans stunned. Played at U.S. Bank Stadium, the game was rich with momentum shifts, clutch plays, and standout individual performances.
In the fourth quarter, the Vikings trailed 22–16 but pieced together a critical scoring drive. Sam Darnold connected with Aaron Jones for a 17-yard touchdown pass with just over a minute remaining. This touchdown, followed by a successful extra point, gave the Vikings a one-point lead. On the Cardinals’ next possession, quarterback Kyler Murray was intercepted by Shaquill Griffin, which sealed the Vikings’ victory.
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Despite the loss, Arizona statistically outperformed Minnesota in many areas. They controlled the clock, gained more total yards, and moved the chains more frequently. However, costly turnovers and missed red-zone opportunities proved to be their undoing. The game was an example of how football is often decided in the final moments, regardless of statistical dominance.
Here’s a snapshot of the final score and basic game details:
| Detail | Arizona Cardinals | Minnesota Vikings |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 22 | 23 |
| Total Yards | 406 | 273 |
| Time of Possession | 35:49 | 24:11 |
| Turnovers | 2 | 0 |
| Red Zone TDs | 1/4 | 2/3 |
| 4th Quarter Points | 6 | 7 |
This game didn’t just showcase team execution—it highlighted individual brilliance on both sides. From Kyler Murray’s dual-threat capability to Justin Jefferson’s consistency as a top receiver, each quarter delivered moments worth analyzing. The following sections will now go deeper into each player unit and performance category.
Team Stats Comparison: Offense, Defense & Specials
While the final scoreboard showed a narrow win for the Minnesota Vikings, a deep look into the team stats reveals how the Arizona Cardinals were the more productive team on paper. Arizona racked up more total yards, had greater time of possession, and converted more first downs. However, football games are rarely won by numbers alone—execution in crucial moments matters most.
Here’s a detailed comparison of the Arizona Cardinals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats across key categories:
Offensive Stats
| Category | Arizona Cardinals | Minnesota Vikings |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 406 | 273 |
| Passing Yards | 252 | 235 |
| Rushing Yards | 154 | 68 |
| First Downs | 23 | 16 |
| 3rd Down Efficiency | 9/18 (50%) | 4/11 (36%) |
| Time of Possession | 35:49 | 24:11 |
Arizona’s offense controlled the game clock, led multiple long drives, and had better efficiency on third down. Still, red zone inefficiency (just 1 touchdown in 4 trips) held them back.
Defensive Stats
| Category | Arizona Cardinals | Minnesota Vikings |
|---|---|---|
| Sacks | 2 | 4 |
| Interceptions Thrown | 2 | 0 |
| QB Hits | 4 | 7 |
| Forced Fumbles | 0 | 0 |
| Tackles for Loss | 6 | 5 |
The Vikings defense was more opportunistic, turning Kyler Murray’s mistakes into momentum-shifting plays, especially in the fourth quarter. They also won the pass-rush battle.
Special Teams
| Category | Arizona Cardinals | Minnesota Vikings |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goals Made | 5/6 | 3/3 |
| Punts (avg yards) | 3 (48.3) | 4 (46.5) |
| Kick Return Yards | 49 | 61 |
| Punt Return Yards | 13 | 22 |
Cardinals kicker Chad Ryland kept them in the game with 5 successful field goals but missed one critical attempt early in the fourth quarter. That miss proved costly in a one-point loss.
Quarterbacks Head-to-Head Duel
Kyler Murray – Arizona Cardinals
Kyler Murray was central to the Cardinals’ offensive rhythm. He completed 31 of 45 passes for 260 yards, with 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions. He also added 48 rushing yards on 7 carries, using his mobility to escape pressure and extend plays.
However, Murray’s two interceptions defined the outcome. The final interception thrown to Shaq Griffin ended Arizona’s last chance to respond. Still, he was poised and accurate throughout most of the game, especially when connecting with tight end Trey McBride and rookie Marvin Harrison Jr.
“Kyler was aggressive and smart—except for two plays that cost us,” said head coach Jonathan Gannon post-game.
Sam Darnold – Minnesota Vikings
Sam Darnold played a conservative but efficient game. He finished 21-of-31 for 235 yards and 2 touchdowns, with no turnovers. His calm demeanor on the game-winning drive earned praise, especially considering Minnesota had little momentum in the fourth quarter.
Darnold also displayed situational awareness, checking down when pressure came and targeting open zones in Arizona’s secondary. His connection with Aaron Jones and Johnny Mundt in the red zone was critical.
Running Backs & Ground Game Analysis
Arizona Cardinals – James Conner and Kyler Murray
The Cardinals leaned on a solid ground game, combining for 154 rushing yards. James Conner led the way with 17 carries for 68 yards, consistently gaining tough yards between the tackles. Murray added an explosive element with his 48 yards, often turning broken plays into positive gains.
This ground attack helped Arizona dominate possession and wear down the Vikings’ defensive line. Unfortunately, they failed to turn long drives into touchdowns.
Minnesota Vikings – Aaron Jones
Minnesota struggled in the run game, finishing with just 68 rushing yards. Aaron Jones had 22 yards on 5 carries, but he made his impact felt through the air, catching a clutch touchdown late in the fourth quarter.
Jones was used more as a decoy and checkdown option, showing his versatility. Minnesota abandoned the run early but made up for it with precision passing and quick throws.
Top Receivers & Key Playmakers
Arizona Cardinals
- Trey McBride: 12 receptions, 96 yards – Murray’s top target
- Marvin Harrison Jr.: 5 receptions, 60 yards, 1 TD – strong route running and separation
- Michael Wilson: 3 receptions, 41 yards
- Elijah Higgins: 2 receptions, 29 yards
McBride played a critical role on third downs, often lining up in the slot. Harrison Jr.’s touchdown in the second quarter showed his ability to make contested catches.
Minnesota Vikings
- Justin Jefferson: 7 receptions, 99 yards – elite route technician
- Johnny Mundt: 2 receptions, 22 yards, 1 TD – underrated red zone threat
- Jordan Addison: 3 receptions, 33 yards
- Aaron Jones: 3 catches, 24 yards, 1 TD (receiving)
Jefferson’s consistency continues to amaze, as he made difficult catches look routine. Despite not scoring, he moved the chains on crucial downs.
Defensive Standouts & Game-Sealing Plays
Minnesota’s defense came alive when it mattered most. The game-sealing interception by Shaq Griffin was not just a highlight but a turning point in the NFC playoff picture. He read Murray’s eyes, jumped the route, and secured the win with just 30 seconds left.
On the line, Danielle Hunter recorded 2 sacks and 3 QB hits, consistently applying pressure. Ivan Pace Jr. led the team in tackles with 9.
For the Cardinals, Jalen Thompson and Zaven Collins were defensive anchors. Collins had a sack and 2 tackles for loss. BJ Ojulari flashed potential with 1 sack and constant edge pressure.
PFF Grades:
- Jalen Redmond (ARI): 91.1
- Justin Jefferson (MIN): 89.3
- Kyler Murray: 83.7
- Sam Darnold: 84.2
Special Teams & Miscellaneous Stats
Special teams were a major factor in this game. Chad Ryland of the Cardinals converted 5 of 6 field goals, including two from over 50 yards. However, his lone miss was from 41 yards in a critical fourth-quarter moment.
Minnesota’s kicker Romo went 3-for-3, including a 47-yarder early in the first half. Punting remained clean on both sides, with no blocks or returns breaking 30 yards.
Arizona’s Greg Dortch returned 2 punts for 13 yards and 3 kicks for 49 yards, giving decent starting field position.
Read More: Memphis Grizzlies vs OKC Thunder Match Player Stats Breakdown
Fantasy Football Takeaways
This matchup offered several fantasy-relevant performances, especially in PPR leagues:
- Trey McBride (ARI): 21.6 PPR points – TE1 of the week
- Justin Jefferson (MIN): 16.9 points – continues top-5 WR status
- Kyler Murray (ARI): 19.4 points – solid floor with rushing upside
- Sam Darnold (MIN): 18.3 points – viable QB2 in superflex formats
- Aaron Jones (MIN): 12.6 points – value came from receiving TD
Biggest surprise? Johnny Mundt, who had only 3% rostered rate, ended with 8.2 points due to his touchdown. He may become a streaming TE option if his role expands.
Historical Head-to-Head & Broader Outlook
These two NFC franchises have a long but one-sided rivalry. Including this game, the Minnesota Vikings lead the all-time series 18–13. The Cardinals have not beaten the Vikings on the road since 2011.
In recent years, Minnesota has had Arizona’s number, winning 4 of the last 5 meetings. The Vikings, with this win, improved to 9–3 and remained strong playoff contenders. The Cardinals, now 6–6, still have a chance to sneak into the wild card but will need cleaner performances ahead.
Looking at the upcoming schedule, both teams face divisional rivals, and this game will likely be pivotal when playoff seeding is decided.
FAQs – Arizona Cardinals vs Minnesota Vikings Match Player Stats
1. Who were the top players in the Cardinals vs Vikings game?
Trey McBride, Justin Jefferson, and Sam Darnold stood out. McBride had 12 catches, while Jefferson posted 99 yards. Darnold threw for 2 TDs.
2. Why did the Cardinals lose despite better stats?
Arizona outgained Minnesota but failed to convert red zone chances and committed two critical turnovers. Execution in the fourth quarter cost them.
3. What were Kyler Murray’s final stats?
Murray went 31/45 for 260 yards, 1 TD, and 2 INTs. He also rushed for 48 yards. He played well but made two costly errors.
4. Did special teams make a difference in this game?
Yes. Arizona’s kicker missed a field goal, while Minnesota’s kicker was perfect. Field position and reliable kicking played a role.
5. How does this game affect playoff chances?
The Vikings stay firmly in playoff contention with the win. The Cardinals must now win at least 3 of their next 4 games to stay alive.
Conclusion & What It Means Moving Forward
The Arizona Cardinals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats reveal a game filled with intensity, mistakes, and brilliance. Despite dominating several statistical categories, the Cardinals couldn’t overcome two key interceptions and red zone inefficiency. On the flip side, the Vikings showcased resilience, discipline, and the ability to finish under pressure.
Sam Darnold is proving to be a steady hand, and the defense is improving each week. For Arizona, while the talent is evident, especially in Kyler Murray and Marvin Harrison Jr., the team must execute cleaner in crucial moments to convert effort into wins.
Going forward, both teams will look to sharpen their playoff positioning. If they meet again, this first clash gives fans and analysts plenty to anticipate in a rematch.
