It's a big deal anytime a defense can stop San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey. He's one of the best all-purpose backs in the NFL.
It's an even bigger deal when a defense can turn McCaffrey over, and that's exactly what the Minnesota Vikings did early in the Monday night game against the 49ers.
Kirk Cousins threw an interception to start the game, which put San Francisco in an envious position for its first drive — starting with the ball on the Minnesota 48.
A few players later, the 49ers found themselves in the red zone and in scoring position, but Camryn Bynum and Harrison Smith made a big tackle on McCaffrey's first-down run, which caused a fumble that Minnesota was able to jump on.
It's a turnover fest early on MNF
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 24, 2023
The Vikings get the ball right back after the Christian McCaffrey fumble pic.twitter.com/PibjZl3Guw
The fumble was cool, for Minnesota at least. The celebration after, though? Well, that was epic. Any sports fan can appreciate the team limbo:
The Vikings’ celly after recovering Christian McCaffrey’s fumble is a vibe.
— Sportsbook Review (@SBRReview) October 24, 2023
(: @espn) pic.twitter.com/89U6nBJk5i
For what it's worth, McCaffrey didn't stay down for long. He scored a touchdown with 1:01 to go in the second quarter, which subsequently set an NFL record.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!