Here is an in depth and easy to read breakdown of the player stats from the Indianapolis Colts vs Minnesota Vikings game played on November 3, 2024. The article is written in B1 level English so it is easy to follow. I will cover key players, their numbers, what stood out, and the broader meaning of the game. At the end you will find 10 frequently asked questions as well.
Match overview
On November 3, 2024, the Vikings hosted the Colts at U.S. Bank Stadium. The final score was Vikings 21, Colts 13.
Here are some team level stats:
- Total net yards: Colts 227, Vikings 415.
- Time of possession: Colts around 23 minutes, Vikings around 37 minutes.
- The Vikings took control in the second half, scoring 14 points in the 3rd quarter and 7 in the 4th, after a 0 to 0 first half.
So, in short, the Vikings dominated yardage and possession, made big plays in the second half, and held off the Colts. Now let us dive into the individual player stats.
Key players for the Vikings
1. Sam Darnold (Quarterback)
Darnold had a big game. He completed 28 of 34 passes for 290 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions.
What stands out: He was efficient and threw three touchdowns, which helped the Vikings pull ahead. However, the two interceptions show he took risks.
2. Justin Jefferson (Wide Receiver)
Jefferson caught 7 passes for 137 yards. The big yardage makes him the top receiver in this game for either team.
Why it matters: When your big play receiver puts up over 100 yards, the whole offence gets a boost. The Colts could not fully slow him down.
3. Other Vikings offensive stand outs
- Jalen Nailor had 1 reception for 7 yards and that reception was a touchdown.
- Jordan Addison caught 5 passes for 42 yards and 1 touchdown.
- On the ground Aaron Jones carried 21 times for 64 yards.
These contributions helped the Vikings offence by spreading the work. It was not only deep passing but also steady rushing.
4. Vikings defence
The Vikings defence deserves credit too. The Colts gained only 227 yards. The defence also forced turnovers and held the Colts to zero passing touchdowns.
Key players for the Colts
1. Joe Flacco (Quarterback)
Flacco completed 16 of 27 passes for 179 yards, 0 touchdowns, and 1 interception.
What this tells us: The passing game was modest. Flacco did not throw a touchdown and the yardage was lower than his opponent. This made it hard for the Colts to keep up.
2. Jonathan Taylor (Running Back)
Taylor had 13 carries for 48 yards and caught 3 passes for 11 yards.
What stands out: The rushing game was quiet for a player of Taylor’s ability. When your star runner cannot break free often, the whole offence becomes limited.
3. Colts receiving and other contributions
- Josh Downs had 6 receptions for 60 yards.
- Alec Pierce caught 3 passes for 41 yards.
These are decent numbers but not strong enough to match the Vikings passing success.
4. Colts defence
The Colts defence had some stops and a turnover early in the game, but overall they allowed big yardage and were not able to slow down the Vikings offence in key moments.
What the stats really mean
- Big yardage gap: The Vikings had 415 yards while the Colts had 227. This shows a strong edge for Minnesota. When one team controls the field like that, they often win.
- Time of possession matters: The Vikings had the ball much longer. More possession means more chances to score and fewer chances for the opponent.
- Big receptions and yards: Jefferson’s 137 yards show how a top receiver can impact the game. When one player creates big plays, the defence struggles.
- Running and passing balance: The Vikings had both effective passing and reliable running. The Colts did not have that same balance.
- Turnovers and decisive plays: The Colts made mistakes, and Minnesota capitalised on them. Turnovers often change games and this one was no different.
The Vikings had strong team performance with good yardage, long possession, effective scoring drives, and important plays at the right moments. The Colts did some things well but not enough to match.
Implications for each team
Vikings
This win improved their record and gave them momentum. A performance like this builds confidence. If they keep their offence balanced and continue to control possession and force turnovers, they will be in a good position for the rest of the season.
Colts
The Colts dropped to a losing record after this game. They need more explosive plays, better protection for the quarterback, and stronger rushing numbers. The defence also needs to reduce yardage allowed.
Looking ahead: What to watch
- Can the Vikings keep their balance between passing and running
- Can the Colts find more spark in their offence
- Turnover margin will be important for both teams
- Special teams and penalties may influence future results
Conclusion
The Colts vs Vikings match showed how strong teamwork and balanced play can change a game. The Vikings used both passing and running well, and their defence stopped the Colts at important moments. Players like Sam Darnold and Justin Jefferson made big plays that helped build the lead. The Colts tried to stay in the game, but they could not create enough strong drives or big yardage to match the Vikings.
This game teaches an important lesson. Good ball control, smart passing, solid rushing, and few mistakes often decide who wins. The Vikings did all these things better on this day. The Colts now have a chance to learn from this match and improve for the next games. Both teams showed effort, but the Vikings had the better plan and better use of their key players.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did the Colts vs Vikings game take place
It was on November 3, 2024. - What was the final score
Vikings 21, Colts 13. - Who threw the most passing yards
Sam Darnold with 290 passing yards. - Who was the leading receiver in yardage
Justin Jefferson with 137 receiving yards. - How many rushing yards did Jonathan Taylor have
He had 48 rushing yards. - How many turnovers were there
The Colts committed three turnovers and it affected the game. - Which team controlled time of possession
The Vikings controlled the ball much longer than the Colts. - How effective was the Colts passing game
Joe Flacco threw for 179 yards with no touchdowns and one interception. - Did the Vikings show rushing strength
Yes. Aaron Jones ran 21 times for 64 yards. - What are the key takeaways for both teams
Vikings were balanced, controlled possession, and made big plays.
Colts need more yardage, fewer mistakes, and stronger offence.
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