DUBLIN, Ireland – The Minnesota Vikings’ perfect international record came to an end Sunday at Croke Park. Despite a spirited fourth-quarter comeback, the Vikings fell 24-21 to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL’s first regular-season game in Ireland.
The loss dropped Minnesota to 4-1 all-time in regular-season international games, ending their streak of overseas victories.
Late Rally Falls Short
Carson Wentz engineered a dramatic comeback attempt in the final quarter. Trailing 24-6, he threw two touchdown passes to narrow the deficit significantly.
The veteran quarterback found Zavier Scott for a 16-yard touchdown pass, marking Scott’s first career score. Wentz followed with a successful 2-point conversion to Jalen Nailor, cutting the lead to 24-14 with 7:50 remaining.
After a crucial defensive stop, Wentz connected with Jordan Addison for an 81-yard gain to the Pittsburgh 1-yard line. The Vikings converted on fourth-and-goal with a 2-yard pass to Nailor, making it 24-21 with 2:08 left.
Critical Final Drive
Minnesota’s final possession stalled at its own 39-yard line. An intentional grounding penalty on Wentz with less than 45 seconds remaining proved costly. The infraction included a 10-second runoff, severely limiting the Vikings’ comeback chances.
“We just didn’t do enough things to overcome either our own execution or the injuries,” said head coach Kevin O’Connell.
Injury Concerns Mount
The Vikings faced significant challenges along their offensive line. Left guard Donovan Jackson was ruled out before kickoff, with Blake Brandel starting in his place.
Right tackle Brian O’Neill left the game with a knee injury after Minnesota’s first field goal. Justin Skule replaced O’Neill for the remainder of the contest.
Center Ryan Kelly was evaluated for a concussion and ruled out. Michael Jurgens took over snapping duties in the second half.
Pittsburgh capitalized on the line instability, recording six sacks and 10 tackles for loss. The Steelers also registered 14 quarterback hits and eight passes defensed.
Skol News:
- Minnesota Vikings Make NFL History with Back-to-Back International Games
- Vikings Make Strategic Roster Adjustments Ahead of Week 4
- Vikings Rookie Donovan Jackson Shows Grit, Undergoes Wrist Surgery After Playing Through Injury
- LSU’s Dynamic Duo: Jefferson and Chase Make Their Case for ‘Wide Receiver U’ on Sunday NFL Countdown
- Wentz Shines in Vikings Debut as Defense Dominates in 48-10 Rout of Bengals
Strong Start Derailed
Wentz began the game impressively, completing his first 11 passes for a new career best. His 12th attempt was tipped at the line by Derrick Harmon and intercepted by DeShon Elliott.
Despite taking repeated hits, including having his eye poked in the second quarter, Wentz finished 30-of-46 for 350 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. His passer rating was 84.5.
Pittsburgh quarterback Aaron Rodgers took a different approach. After being sacked on the opening play by Jalen Redmond, he focused on quick releases.
Rodgers completed all eight first-quarter passes for 65 yards. He added a 4-for-6 performance in the second quarter for 100 yards, highlighted by an 80-yard touchdown to DK Metcalf on a quick slant.
Steelers Control Game
Kenneth Gainwell led Pittsburgh’s ground attack with 99 yards and two touchdowns. His 4-yard scoring run in the third quarter extended the Steelers’ lead to 21-6.
The Steelers’ defense forced multiple turnovers to create short fields. T.J. Watt’s interception of a tipped Wentz pass set up Gainwell’s second touchdown.
“There was always someone in his face, and he was uncomfortable,” said Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward about pressuring Wentz.
Costly Mistakes
Minnesota was flagged eight times for 82 yards, including two retaliation penalties resulting in 15-yard markoffs.
A holding penalty negated what appeared to be a 54-yard kickoff return by Myles Price. Instead of starting at the Pittsburgh 37, the Vikings began at their own 18 and punted three plays later.
The Vikings converted just 4-of-14 third-down attempts, struggling to sustain drives consistently.
Defensive Highlights
Minnesota’s defense provided some bright spots despite the loss. Byron Murphy Jr. tackled Gainwell at the 1-yard line on a crucial fourth-and-goal stop.
Isaiah Rodgers blocked a 30-yard field goal attempt by Chris Boswell late in the first half. The block marked Minnesota’s first since Jerry Tillery’s effort against Chicago in November 2024.
The defensive stop allowed the Vikings to mount a scoring drive before halftime. Will Reichard’s 28-yard field goal made it 14-6 with 12 seconds remaining in the second quarter.
International Experience
The historic venue provided a unique atmosphere for both teams. Croke Park, traditionally home to Gaelic sports, hosted 74,512 fans for the NFL’s Irish debut.
Coach O’Connell praised the experience despite the result. “We already feel the love and support from Dublin,” he said during the week.
The Vikings will have little time to dwell on the loss. They travel to London next week to face the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Looking Ahead
The back-to-back international games present unique challenges for Minnesota. The team will remain overseas for the entire 10-day stretch between contests.
O’Connell views the extended trip as a team-building opportunity. “You go on a little field trip for 10 days, you’ve got a great opportunity to keep growing together,” he said.
The Vikings must address their offensive line injuries and penalty issues before facing Cleveland. The Browns will provide another stern test in London’s familiar confines.
Dominate the gridiron in EA Sports Madden NFL 26! Experience next-level gameplay with enhanced AI, realistic physics, and immersive stadium atmospheres. Build your dynasty and lead your team to Super Bowl glory!
Fuel your game day passion with Black Rifle Coffee – premium roasted coffee supporting veterans and first responders. Bold flavor for bold Vikings fans who never back down.
Celebrate every Vikings touchdown with Michelob Ultra – the light beer that delivers superior taste with only 95 calories. Perfect for international game day gatherings and purple pride celebrations.
Skol Newsletter
Stay connected with exclusive Vikings coverage, international game analysis, and insider access to the purple and gold. Our premium newsletter delivers in-depth reporting, injury updates, and strategic breakdowns you won’t find anywhere else.
Premium Newsletter: $12.50/year – Get it now before prices increase!
Free newsletter subscribers receive early access to basic articles only.
🏈 Your Source for Global Sports News | Bad Dawg Sports 🏈
Discover more from Bad Dawg Sports - Global Sports Coverage & Analysis
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
