Vikings See Pierre and Van Ginkel Rise After Lions Loss

Minnesota’s Week 9 outlook follows its first loss of the season, a defeat against Detroit that exposed struggles on both sides of the ball. The Vikings face Buffalo next, with the trade deadline coming afterward. The team’s postgame stock report pointed to two defensive players whose performances stood out, alongside concerns about the running game and punting.

Cornerback James Pierre intercepted Jared Goff for his second pick of the season. His Pro Football Focus grade is 75.9, ranking 12th among 102 qualifying cornerbacks. With Isaiah Rodgers potentially sidelined by an ankle injury, Pierre could take on more snaps against the Bills.

Edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel recorded 2.5 sacks against Detroit, giving him 6.5 this season, fifth-most in the NFL. He also has an interception and a forced fumble. Van Ginkel will be 32 and is due to become a free agent next season, but his production could strengthen the case for Minnesota to bring him back.

Running back Jordan Mason gained 20 yards on eight carries in his second game back from a thumb injury. He is averaging 3.9 yards per carry and has not caught a pass this season. The report described him as a solid second option, but said neither Mason nor Aaron Jones Sr. has given Minnesota a back who significantly changes opposing defenses’ plans.

Punter Brett Thorson had a badly shanked punt against Detroit. His 44.1-yard average ranks 28th in the NFL. Veteran Johnny Hekker, who lost the job to Thorson in the offseason, was also unimpressive when filling in, making another in-season change unlikely. Minnesota could hold a new punter competition in the spring.