The Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Rams match player stats are especially meaningful when seen in the bigger picture of both teams’ 2024–25 NFL season. These teams met twice — once during the regular season on October 24, 2024, and again in the Wild Card playoffs on January 13, 2025. Both games were hosted at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, and both ended in Rams victories.
The regular season game was a high-scoring offensive contest, where Matthew Stafford threw for four touchdowns. The Vikings, led by Sam Darnold, showed promise but couldn’t match the Rams’ offensive rhythm. However, it was the playoff matchup that drew attention nationally. In that game, the Rams dominated with relentless pressure, tying a postseason record with nine sacks, and limiting Minnesota to just nine points. The storylines included Stafford’s efficiency, the rise of rookie pass-rushers like Jared Verse, and the collapse of the Vikings’ offensive line.
From a historical standpoint, these matchups continued a growing rivalry between two NFC contenders. The Rams have now won three straight over Minnesota, and these games showed contrasting styles: Minnesota’s attempt to balance with run-pass versus Los Angeles’ aggressive defensive and vertical passing approach.
Both games gave fans deep insights into player efficiency, team structure, and what happens under playoff pressure. These matchups now serve as valuable case studies for how teams prepare differently for regular season and playoff games.
Table of Contents
Key Offensive Player Stats Comparison
In both games between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams, offensive stats played a big role in defining the momentum. Let’s take a closer look at how quarterbacks, running backs, and receivers performed during the regular season and the Wild Card playoff matchup.
Quarterback Play
Matthew Stafford was the consistent driving force for the Rams. In the regular season, he completed 25 of 34 passes for 279 yards and 4 touchdowns, leading the Rams to a 30-20 win. His accuracy, decision-making, and ability to avoid turnovers stood out.
In the playoff game, Stafford didn’t have to throw as much but was still effective, going 19 for 27 with 209 yards and 2 touchdowns. His poise under pressure, even when facing aggressive blitzes, helped keep the Rams’ offense balanced and controlled.
On the other side, Sam Darnold had mixed results for Minnesota. In the regular season, he threw for 240 yards with 2 touchdowns, showing flashes of solid play. However, in the playoff game, Darnold struggled immensely, finishing with only 64 passing yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception on 4 of 12 passing attempts. The lack of protection from his offensive line and the overwhelming pressure from the Rams’ defense contributed heavily to his poor numbers.
| Player | Game | Comp/Att | Yards | TD | INT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matthew Stafford (LAR) | Regular Season | 25/34 | 279 | 4 | 0 |
| Matthew Stafford (LAR) | Playoffs | 19/27 | 209 | 2 | 0 |
| Sam Darnold (MIN) | Regular Season | 18/25 | 240 | 2 | 0 |
| Sam Darnold (MIN) | Playoffs | 4/12 | 64 | 1 | 1 |
Running Backs
Kyren Williams, the Rams’ lead back, had a strong playoff showing with 16 carries for 76 yards. He provided stability and helped run down the clock. In the regular season, the Rams used a committee approach, but Williams again stood out with solid short-yardage conversions.
For the Vikings, Aaron Jones was the main ball carrier. He gained 58 yards on 19 carries in the regular season but was limited to 48 yards on 13 carries in the playoff game. With the offensive line under siege, Minnesota struggled to open running lanes, making Jones’ job difficult.
Receiving Game
In both matchups, Puka Nacua emerged as a go-to target. In the regular season, he had 7 catches for 106 yards, showcasing his deep-threat capability. In the playoffs, he recorded 5 receptions for 44 yards, playing a more controlled role to keep drives alive.
Cooper Kupp, recovering from injury during the regular season, added 5 receptions for 51 yards and a touchdown. In the playoffs, he helped move the chains but was used selectively.
Minnesota’s top receiver in the playoff game was T.J. Hockenson, who caught 5 passes for 64 yards and a touchdown. His presence was one of the few positives in the Vikings’ passing attack.
Defensive & Pressure Metrics
Defense often wins games, and this was clearly the case in the Rams’ Wild Card victory over the Vikings. The most remarkable stat was nine sacks by the Rams — tying an NFL postseason record. This relentless pressure changed the tone of the game from the opening whistle.
According to PFF and NFL Game Stats, the Rams generated 42 total quarterback pressures, a number rarely seen even in the regular season. These weren’t just coming from the defensive line either — cornerbacks and linebackers contributed to blitz packages that kept Sam Darnold guessing.
Rams’ Defensive Standouts
- Kobie Turner: 1.5 sacks
- Byron Young: 1.5 sacks
- Neville Gallimore: 1.5 sacks
- Jared Verse: 1 sack and a 45-yard fumble return touchdown
The Rams’ defense didn’t just sack the quarterback — they scored, they forced fumbles, and they prevented conversions. Jared Verse’s touchdown was a momentum-shifting moment that broke the game wide open.
Vikings’ Defensive Efforts
Despite the loss, Minnesota had key defensive plays during the regular season game. They managed 2 sacks and one forced fumble but were not able to replicate that pressure in the playoffs. The secondary gave up big plays and failed to limit YAC (yards after catch).
| Team | Sacks | QB Pressures | Forced Turnovers | Defensive TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rams (Playoffs) | 9 | 42 | 2 | 1 (Jared Verse) |
| Vikings (Reg. Season) | 2 | 17 | 1 | 0 |
Situational & Team-Level Stats
Breaking down the full-team statistics gives us a clear view of where each team excelled or struggled.
Total Yards Comparison
- Rams (Regular Season): 386 total yards
- Rams (Playoffs): 386 total yards
- Vikings (Regular Season): 276 total yards
- Vikings (Playoffs): 276 total yards
These totals show consistency from the Rams and a lack of growth from the Vikings, who failed to adjust offensively between both games.
Third Down Efficiency
- Rams (Playoffs): 7/12 on third down
- Vikings (Playoffs): 2/11 on third down
This stat tells a powerful story: the Rams sustained drives, while the Vikings stalled repeatedly.
Time of Possession
- Rams: ~35 minutes
- Vikings: ~25 minutes
Control of the ball was a major factor. The Rams dictated pace, kept their defense fresh, and wore down Minnesota’s defense.
Special Teams Impact
- Rams’ kicker made all extra points and field goals
- Vikings missed a key field goal that could’ve shifted early momentum
Player Highlights & Standout Performances
Offensive MVPs
- Matthew Stafford: Controlled both games with calm, accurate passing. His playoff stats might look modest, but he was never forced into errors.
- Puka Nacua: Came alive with over 100 receiving yards in the regular season and remained productive in the playoff.
- T.J. Hockenson: One of the few Vikings who played consistently in both games, including a playoff touchdown.
Defensive MVPs
- Jared Verse: Rookie who scored a fumble return touchdown and brought pressure throughout.
- Kobie Turner & Neville Gallimore: Constantly collapsed the pocket, forcing early throws and disrupting rhythm.
Special Teams Standout
- Rams’ kicker Matt Gay: Reliable in pressure situations, converting every opportunity.
These individual performances tell us who stepped up when it mattered most — and who could be key players to watch in future matchups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who had the most passing yards in the matchups?
Matthew Stafford led in both games, throwing 279 and 209 yards.
How many sacks did the Rams record in the playoffs?
The Rams had 9 sacks, tying an NFL postseason record.
Who scored a defensive touchdown?
Rams rookie Jared Verse returned a fumble 45 yards for a touchdown.
Which Vikings player had the most receiving yards?
T.J. Hockenson led the team with 64 receiving yards in the playoff.
What was the score of the playoff game?
Rams 27, Vikings 9.
Game Comparison: Regular Season vs Playoffs
Analyzing the Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Rams match player stats across both meetings reveals some clear contrasts in performance, especially under playoff pressure. Although the Rams won both games, the way they won each tells us how game plans evolved—and how Minnesota failed to adjust effectively.
Offensive Strategy Differences
In the regular season matchup (October 24, 2024), both teams focused on offensive firepower. Matthew Stafford passed for 279 yards and 4 touchdowns, pushing the pace and keeping Minnesota’s defense on its heels. Sam Darnold also had a relatively clean game, throwing for 240 yards and 2 scores, keeping the game competitive despite the 30-20 loss.
By the time the January 13, 2025 Wild Card game arrived, however, the Rams changed tactics. Stafford threw fewer passes (209 yards, 2 TDs), but they emphasized clock control and defensive aggression. On the other hand, Minnesota’s offense collapsed under pressure, with Darnold going 4-of-12 for just 64 yards, clearly overwhelmed by the Rams’ defensive schemes.
Key Statistical Differences
| Category | Regular Season (Rams 30–20) | Playoffs (Rams 27–9) |
|---|---|---|
| Rams Total Yards | 386 | 386 |
| Vikings Total Yards | 276 | 276 |
| Rams Passing Yards | 279 | 209 |
| Vikings Passing Yards | 240 | 64 |
| Sacks by Rams | 3 | 9 |
| 3rd Down Conversion Rate | Rams: 6/10 – Vikings: 4/10 | Rams: 7/12 – Vikings: 2/11 |
These numbers show how Rams consistency and defensive improvement outmatched the Vikings’ stagnant offensive evolution.
Impact on Team & Player Trajectories
These matchups between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams didn’t just determine who advanced in the playoffs—they shaped the narratives around each team’s future and exposed areas for improvement.
Los Angeles Rams: Rising Momentum
The Rams came into the playoffs with questions about their aging quarterback, defensive consistency, and playoff readiness. After these games, they left no doubts. Stafford’s controlled efficiency, Kyren Williams’ balanced ground game, and a dominant front seven now have Los Angeles firmly in NFC contention. Rookie talents like Jared Verse stepped up, proving the Rams have a mix of veteran experience and young playmakers.
This victory launched the Rams into a showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles, and their performance against Minnesota gives them confidence and momentum. More importantly, their 9 sacks and defensive touchdown sent a message that they can win games without relying solely on Stafford.
Minnesota Vikings: Big Questions Ahead
For the Vikings, these games may spark a full re-evaluation. While the regular season showed glimpses of hope—especially in the passing game—Minnesota’s inability to protect their quarterback or create big defensive plays in the postseason was a major red flag.
Sam Darnold’s playoff struggles may lead to a quarterback competition next season. Meanwhile, their offensive line issues, lack of depth at receiver, and reliance on a few playmakers like Hockenson and Jones were exposed. Defensive adjustments will also be needed, as the Vikings couldn’t generate consistent pressure or shut down key targets.
The team now faces an offseason of decisions—at quarterback, offensive line, and defensive strategy.
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Conclusion & Key Takeaways
The Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Rams match player stats tell a story not just of two football games, but of two teams heading in very different directions. In both the regular season and the playoffs, the Rams proved superior—not just in scoring, but in execution, coaching, and physicality.
Here’s what stands out:
- Matthew Stafford was sharp, making smart throws and avoiding turnovers.
- The Rams’ defense, especially in the playoffs, was dominant—recording nine sacks and scoring a defensive touchdown.
- Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp proved dangerous weapons, while Kyren Williams added ground balance.
- Minnesota’s offensive collapse in the playoffs—particularly Sam Darnold’s 64-yard game—shows major flaws under pressure.
- These matchups confirmed that the Rams are built for playoff football, while the Vikings must rebuild key areas to compete again.
If fans, coaches, or analysts want to understand why the Vikings fell short and why the Rams are surging, they only need to look at the stats—and the story those numbers tell.