In the midst of a thrilling matchup in London, Minnesota Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel showcased his exceptional ability to capitalize on open spaces, leaving opposing quarterbacks bewildered. On Sunday, Van Ginkel expertly dropped back from the line, snatching an interception from New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers and sprinting 63 yards to score the game’s opening touchdown, propelling the Vikings to a 10-0 advantage.
This remarkable play marked Rodgers’ fifth career pick-six, a testament to Van Ginkel’s uncanny knack for finding himself in the right place at the right time. The linebacker’s impressive resume now boasts four career interceptions, with three of those being returned for touchdowns. Just weeks prior, in Week 1, Van Ginkel intercepted New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, taking it back 10 yards for another score.
Van Ginkel’s journey to the Vikings began when he was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round of the 2019 draft, under the guidance of then-head coach Brian Flores. Fast-forward to the present, and Flores, now the Vikings’ defensive coordinator, played a pivotal role in convincing general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah to sign Van Ginkel during free agency. The move has proven to be a shrewd one, as Van Ginkel has been thrust into the spotlight and is making the most of his opportunities.
The Vikings’ defense continued to shine, with safety Cam Bynum intercepting the Jets’ subsequent possession, marking the first time in Rodgers’ illustrious 20-year career that he has thrown two interceptions in the first quarter.
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