Volume 8, Bilson Morrissey, Week 16 2022: Minnesota Vikings vs New York Giants
Our beloved Vikes delivered us an early Christmas present in an all but too familiar fashion to push our impressive record to 12-3. Kevin O’Connell (KOC) now proudly holds the record of most regular season wins by a head coach, in his first season. A tremendous achievement fuelled no doubt by hours and hours of off and on field preparations!
That’s not the only record the new never-say-die Vikings set during the game. JJ can also boast a record of his own, as he is now the leading yards receiver in a season for the Vikings, beating the legendary Randy Moss’ record with some games to spare!
A Nervy Start
A nervy start saw the deadlock broken with a TJ Hockenson TD near the end of the first quarter. The man who looks and plays like a Viking had another stellar game with a second incredible touchdown later on in the game, as well as some serious yardage under his belt. A brilliant signing who seems right at home already.
A fairly sturdy Vikes defence, despite giving up over 300 passing yards again, was broken towards the end of the last quarter by a typically robust and surging Saquon Barkley run to set up a thrilling finale!
As mentioned previously, in a game boasting plenty of records, yet another one was broken to seal the victory. Greg Joseph’s 61 yard attempt with just 4 seconds left of the clock sailed over the uprights perfectly to set a franchise record and seal another Vikings victory!
Kirk Cousins
Kirk Cousins ended the contest with a game winning drive. That last sentence could’ve been composed for any game this season it would seem. That’s 8 for the season now and one more will set a new NFL record for game winning drives. Again, an outstanding achievement to even be close to that sort of bracket.
From what can be seen on various social media outlets, Kirk Cousins seems to split opinion. That debate may be for another day, but for now he’s the Vikings QB1 that has led us and a new head coach to 12 – 3. Simply put, and to almost quote the man himself, should we like that? Yes, yes we should.
You Like That?!
This week’s Play of The Week had to be TJ’s second touchdown. The throw to him was sublime and TJ displayed a whole host of impressive attributes to clutch the ball in despite being sandwiched between 2 Giants defenders.
Determination and tactical nous to be in a position to score, and the athleticism to be able to jump and hold on to the ball. A bit of a juggle maybe but full sprint and on the dive, I’m willing to look past that. A career game for the already heralded TJ and what higher praise than receiving play of the week! Skol TJ, SKOL!
In Summary
To summarise, another Vikings victory! And yes another victory by one score with plenty of drama! At the end of the day a win is a win and we shall take them all! The off-field personnel adjustments pre-season coupled with a great QB and some serious offensive threats seem to be spearheading a new look Vikings. And I like the look of it ahead of the game against you know who on Sunday! That’s all from me, except to say Merry Christmas to you all and a Happy New Year! Skol!
Author: Bilson Morrissey
Editors: Tommy Beauchene, Rich Dawson, Jacqui Melrose, Ella Burt