J.J. McCarthy wasn’t the only key Minnesota Viking making a return to the field in their recent win over the Detroit Lions. Pro Bowl linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel also rejoined the starting lineup for the first time since the team’s Week 3 matchup against the Bengals — and his impact was immediately noticeable.
Van Ginkel played a pivotal role in helping Minnesota secure the divisional victory, but one particular play during the game has left the veteran defender frustrated.
During a Lions offensive snap, Detroit receiver Kalif Raymond blindsided Van Ginkel with a block that wasn’t flagged by the officials. Despite the hard hit, the Vikings defender managed to recover quickly and bring down running back Jahmyr Gibbs on the same play.
Speaking to reporters in the Twin Cities on Wednesday, Van Ginkel didn’t hold back his feelings about the hit:“I felt like it was a cheap shot,” he said. “I’m just rushing the passer, and suddenly I get snapped around from a hit to the side. It’s not something that should happen — hopefully the league takes a closer look at it.”
Although the NFL could still issue a fine to Raymond after reviewing the film, no penalty was called at the time of the incident.
Football is undeniably a physical game, but the league has emphasized player safety in recent years. Van Ginkel believes the officials missed an opportunity to uphold that standard — and he wants to see the NFL take action to prevent similar plays in the future.
