Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings Match Player Stats: Full Breakdown, Top Performers, and Game Highlights
Introduction
The bengals vs minnesota vikings match player stats from this exciting showdown give fans a full look at what really happened on the field. While the scoreboard tells part of the story, the player stats reveal much more—who stepped up, who made game-changing plays, and where both teams can improve.
This game was packed with explosive plays, strong performances, and unexpected moments. Whether you’re a Bengals devotee, a die-hard Vikings fan, or just love great NFL football, this was a must-watch matchup. We’re here to relive the action together and break down everything from rushing yards and quarterback stats to defensive stops and red zone plays.
So grab your favorite team jersey, settle in, and let’s dive into the full Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats report. You’ll learn who dominated the field, how different units performed, and what this game means going forward.
Joe Burrow’s Commanding Performance
Joe Burrow showed why he remains one of the most respected quarterbacks in the league. Calm in the pocket and precise with his throws, Burrow completed 28 of 36 passes for 301 yards and 3 touchdowns.
From the opening drive, Burrow looked sharp. He read the Vikings’ defense well, used quick passes to break down blitzes, and stretched the field with deep throws. His chemistry with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins was on full display with perfectly timed throws and sharp decisions on third down.
What stood out most was Joe’s growing patience. He didn’t force plays when nothing was there. Instead, he took what the defense gave him and let his playmakers do their jobs. These Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats prove that when Burrow is in rhythm, the Bengals offense is nearly unstoppable.
Kirk Cousins’ Bounce-Back Game
Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins had a solid outing as well. He completed 26 of 38 passes for 276 yards and 2 touchdowns, without a single interception. While the loss stings, Kirk’s stats proved he did everything he could to keep Minnesota competitive.
Cousins used short routes and play-action throws to keep the Bengals’ defense guessing. He connected well with Justin Jefferson, who had another monster game. The connection between Cousins and Jefferson continues to be one of the NFL’s most dangerous duos.
A big takeaway from these Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats is that Cousins remains steady under pressure. While he didn’t win, he kept the offense moving and avoided costly mistakes.
Ja’Marr Chase: Unstoppable in Open Space
Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase had one of his best games of the season. He finished with 143 receiving yards on 9 catches and grabbed 2 touchdowns. He created separation early and often, dominating his matchups with blazing speed and clean footwork.
One of the biggest plays of the game was Chase’s 48-yard reception on a deep post route. Burrow placed the ball perfectly, and Chase outran the safety to land inside the red zone. He later capped that drive with a brilliant toe-tap grab in the end zone.
If you’re tracking Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats for fantasy football or just as a fan, Chase’s performance was elite. These kinds of games remind everyone why he’s a top-5 receiver in the league.
Justin Jefferson: A Superstar Even in a Loss
Despite the final score, Justin Jefferson made sure everyone knew he was on the field. The dynamic Vikings receiver posted 128 yards on 10 receptions, including a highlight-reel catch in the third quarter that helped set up a crucial touchdown.
Jefferson’s crisp routes and reliable hands made things easier for Cousins. He also picked up multiple first downs on third-and-long, keeping several drives alive. His ability to turn short passes into long gains was a major threat all game.
The Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats show that Chase and Jefferson were the stars of this game—and they both lived up to the hype.
Running Backs: Mixon and Mattison Go Head-to-Head
The ground game also played a big role in this matchup, with solid efforts from both teams.
Joe Mixon, the Bengals’ lead back, rushed for 84 yards on 20 carries, adding another 36 yards receiving. He didn’t score, but his tough inside running helped control the clock and set up play action for Burrow.
Alexander Mattison was efficient but limited for the Vikings. He finished with 69 rushing yards on 15 carries, along with 2 receptions for 18 yards. He showed good burst early but was contained late as the Bengals’ defense tightened.
In the full scope of Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats, Mixon had a slight edge due to his consistent production and all-around impact.
Defensive Highlights from the Bengals
Let’s talk defense. The Bengals’ defense really showed up when it mattered.
Linebacker Logan Wilson was a tackling machine, posting 11 total tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and 1 sack. He flew to the ball on every down and helped snuff out two key drives.
Trey Hendrickson, the Bengals’ top pass rusher, added 1.5 sacks, while corner Cam Taylor-Britt had 2 pass breakups and limited yards after catch.
The Bengals’ ability to adjust in the second half locked up the win, and these stats show a unit that can bend but doesn’t break. Their play was a big reason the Vikings couldn’t mount a full comeback.
Vikings Defense Starts Hot, But Wears Down
The Vikings’ defense started strong but faded as the game wore on. They pressured Burrow early and forced a few off-balance throws in the first quarter.
Danielle Hunter, Minnesota’s star edge rusher, picked up 1 sack and 2 QB hits. Jordan Hicks also stood out with 9 tackles and a forced fumble in the red zone, although it was unfortunately recovered by the offense.
While Minnesota’s defense had quality moments, lack of adjustments and missed assignments in the second half allowed the Bengals to turn up the heat. The Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats clearly highlight how the second half was where Cincinnati took control.
Red Zone and Third Down Stats
These are the stats that win and lose games—and in this contest, Cincinnati edged Minnesota in both.
- Bengals red zone efficiency: 3-for-4
- Vikings red zone efficiency: 2-for-4
- Bengals third down conversions: 8-of-13
- Vikings third down conversions: 6-of-13
Those two extra third-down conversions kept long drives alive for the Bengals, tiring out Minnesota’s defense and leading to scoring drives.
If we’re being honest, this part of the Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats might be the most telling. Execution under pressure is where great teams separate—and that’s exactly what the Bengals did.
Special Teams Make a Difference
Special teams are often overlooked, but they played a key role in this matchup.
Evan McPherson, Bengals kicker, hit all three of his extra points and nailed a 47-yard field goal with confidence. His kicks helped build momentum and gave the team energy when it was needed.
On the Vikings’ side, Greg Joseph made both his field goals, including one from 52 yards. But a missed extra point in the third quarter left points on the board—and that hurt when they needed a two-score rally late.
Field position was also swayed by Bengals punt returner Trent Taylor, who had a 24-yard return that helped set up a scoring drive. It may not show up in every highlight show, but this part of the Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats proves how small plays can spark big moments.
Coaching Adjustments Pay Off for Cincinnati
Both coaches had clear plans coming into this game, but Zac Taylor and the Bengals staff made better second-half adjustments.
Cincinnati leaned into short passes and screen plays after struggling with deep shots early. The coaching staff also made smart use of the run game to control the clock and keep pressure off their defense.
Meanwhile, Minnesota tried to force more deep passes in the second half—despite the Bengals dropping into zone coverage. This slowed the Vikings’ ability to move the ball effectively.
You’ll see the difference in coaching when you look at overall possession time and second-half efficiency. It’s subtle, but a key part of the Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats we often forget.
Final Team Stats Comparison
Here’s a quick head-to-head comparison of how each team performed:
| Stat | Bengals | Vikings |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 412 | 366 |
| Passing Yards | 301 | 276 |
| Rushing Yards | 111 | 90 |
| Third Down Efficiency | 8/13 | 6/13 |
| Red Zone Efficiency | 75% (3/4) | 50% (2/4) |
| Turnovers | 0 | 0 |
| Time of Possession | 32:46 | 27:14 |
Final Score and Game Result
The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Minnesota Vikings in a game full of big plays and steady control.
Final score: Bengals 31, Vikings 23
Both teams showed talent, and the game stayed close. But the Bengals’ ability to finish drives and take advantage of key moments pushed them over the top.
FAQs
1. Who had more total yards—Bengals or Vikings?
The Bengals did, finishing with 412 total yards compared to the Vikings’ 366.
2. How did Joe Burrow perform in the game?
Burrow passed for 301 yards and 3 touchdowns, showing elite control and accuracy throughout.
3. Was there a running back who stood out?
Joe Mixon led all rushers with 84 yards, while Alexander Mattison had 69 yards for the Vikings.
4. Which wide receiver had the most yards?
Ja’Marr Chase topped everyone with 143 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns.
5. Did either team commit turnovers?
No. Surprisingly, this was a clean game—zero turnovers for either side.
6. What made the difference in the outcome?
Better red zone efficiency, third-down conversions, and second-half adjustments helped the Bengals earn the win.
Conclusion
The Bengals vs Minnesota Vikings match player stats gave us the full picture of a high-level NFL battle. Two good teams showed up, but the Bengals walked away with the win thanks to efficient play, star-power performances, and smart coaching.
Joe Burrow continues to lead confidently, Ja’Marr Chase is elite, and the Bengals’ defense holds the line when it matters. The Vikings, with Kirk Cousins and Justin Jefferson still connecting well, are dangerous but need to solve their second-half struggles.
This game proved that stats don’t just describe the game—they help us understand it. For fans, analysts, and fantasy players, match player stats are more than numbers—they tell the real story behind the score.
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