The Minnesota Vikings took an early lead in Green Bay and got the ball back after the Packers missed a field goal. Aaron Jones then ran for a 17-yard gain after taking a handoff and broke through the line.
He was also fouled when his facemask was grabbed, giving the Vikings the ball at the Packers’ 41-yard line. They quickly scored again, building a two-touchdown lead and eventually winning 31-29, keeping them undefeated in the NFC North.
Returning to Lambeau Field with the Vikings after spending seven seasons with the Packers, Jones was under the spotlight. He performed well, rushing for 93 yards on 22 carries and catching four passes for 46 yards.
“No matter what,” Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell said, “he’s going to meet the moment.”
The Vikings are showing a more balanced offense that complements their strong defense. The key to this improvement has been Jones, who was quickly picked up by the Vikings after the Packers released him to save salary cap space.
“I think I left a pretty big legacy. My mom called me and said, ‘Hey, they have a couple billboards up of you here.’ That really touched my heart as well,” Jones said after his significant visit to the only other NFL team he played for.
Although Jones may not have a long career with the Vikings, he is already making a difference. The Vikings struggled with their running game in the previous two seasons, ranking in the bottom quarter of the league in rushing yards per game and per play.
