After a thrilling 27-24 victory over the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday afternoon, edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week, thanks to his dominant performance in the crucial fourth quarter. Van Ginkel delivered two pivotal sacks that helped seal the win for the Minnesota Vikings, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion when the game was on the line.

Depending on who you ask, the question of whether Van Ginkel has been the defensive MVP for the Vikings this season might elicit different answers. However, there’s no denying that his performance against the Seahawks is a strong addition to his resume for 2024. His ability to make an impact in the most important moments of the game only further cements his role as a key player on the Vikings’ defense.

Van Ginkel’s performance wasn’t limited to just those two sacks. He also recorded two tackles for loss, three quarterback hits, and five total tackles on the day. His versatility was evident as he was used in a variety of ways throughout the game, helping to elevate the Vikings’ defensive efforts to a whole new level. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback and knack for being in the right place at the right time have made him one of the most consistent and feared defenders on the team.

Perhaps even more remarkable is the fact that Van Ginkel’s recognition highlights a trend under Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, with the team boasting an impressive 14 Player of the Week awards across different units. Four players have earned honors for their contributions on special teams, five for offensive performances, and five more for their defensive efforts. This wide array of accolades speaks to the overall depth and talent of the Vikings, both on offense and defense.

Van Ginkel’s NFC Defensive Player of the Week honor makes him the third Vikings player to win the award this season, underscoring just how much individual excellence contributes to the team’s success. Given the Vikings’ red-hot eight-game winning streak, it’s likely that there will be more accolades to come, especially as the team heads into their Sunday matchup against the Green Bay Packers.

With Van Ginkel’s outstanding performances and the Vikings’ continued dominance, the team is not only riding high in the standings but also making waves with the caliber of players they are producing. As the season progresses, expect more big plays and possibly more Player of the Week awards from this dynamic defense.