Posted on Nov 10

Vikings commit eight false starts, most by home team in 16 seasons against Ravens

Posted Nov 10, 2025

The Minnesota Vikings’ eight false start penalties against the Baltimore Ravens not only set a dubious franchise record but also raised questions about their offensive discipline and communication.

Why it matters: The Vikings inability to manage pre-snap penalties has significant implications for their season and team morale.

Committing eight false starts in one game is the highest number recorded by a home team in the past 16 seasons.
This level of undisciplined play detracts from their ability to execute effectively, as they lost 40 yards due to these infractions.

What’s new: Head coach Kevin O'Connell acknowledged the critical nature of the situation during a post-game press conference.

He stated, "The pre-snap, whatever was going on with the cadence... it's just not acceptable in any way."
O'Connell emphasized the need for immediate corrective measures to prevent similar issues in the future.

By the numbers: Despite the penalties, the Vikings showcased their offensive prowess.

They averaged a season-high 6 yards per play, indicating that when they executed properly, they were capable of moving the ball effectively.
However, the combination of penalties and three turnovers hindered their scoring opportunities.

Yes, but: While the penalties were egregious, the Vikings still remained competitive in the game.

Quarterback J.J. McCarthy noted, “It’s just the level of focus,” highlighting the need for improved execution at the snap.
Even with the setbacks, the Vikings had a chance to tie the game late in the fourth quarter, illustrating resilience despite self-inflicted wounds.

Zoom In: Several players contributed to the penalty tally, including right tackle Brian O’Neill and left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who each committed false starts.

O'Neill alone accounted for three of the team’s eight penalties, raising concerns about the offensive line's communication and timing.
Tight end Ben Yurosek and receiver Justin Jefferson also faced scrutiny for their infractions, underscoring a broader issue with the team's offensive cohesion.

The bottom line: The Vikings must address their pre-snap discipline as they move forward in the season.

With playoffs aspirations, they cannot afford to be consistently hampered by self-inflicted penalties.
As the team reviews footage and strategizes corrections, maintaining focus will be paramount to reclaiming both their rhythm and momentum in upcoming games.

Vikings commit eight false starts, most by home team in 16 seasons against Ravens

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 10, 2025

The Minnesota Vikings’ eight false start penalties against the Baltimore Ravens not only set a dubious franchise record but also raised questions about their offensive discipline and communication.

Why it matters: The Vikings inability to manage pre-snap penalties has significant implications for their season and team morale.

Committing eight false starts in one game is the highest number recorded by a home team in the past 16 seasons.

This level of undisciplined play detracts from their ability to execute effectively, as they lost 40 yards due to these infractions.

What’s new: Head coach Kevin O'Connell acknowledged the critical nature of the situation during a post-game press conference.

He stated, "The pre-snap, whatever was going on with the cadence... it's just not acceptable in any way."

O'Connell emphasized the need for immediate corrective measures to prevent similar issues in the future.

By the numbers: Despite the penalties, the Vikings showcased their offensive prowess.

They averaged a season-high 6 yards per play, indicating that when they executed properly, they were capable of moving the ball effectively.

However, the combination of penalties and three turnovers hindered their scoring opportunities.

Yes, but: While the penalties were egregious, the Vikings still remained competitive in the game.

Quarterback J.J. McCarthy noted, “It’s just the level of focus,” highlighting the need for improved execution at the snap.

Even with the setbacks, the Vikings had a chance to tie the game late in the fourth quarter, illustrating resilience despite self-inflicted wounds.

Zoom In: Several players contributed to the penalty tally, including right tackle Brian O’Neill and left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who each committed false starts.

O'Neill alone accounted for three of the team’s eight penalties, raising concerns about the offensive line's communication and timing.

Tight end Ben Yurosek and receiver Justin Jefferson also faced scrutiny for their infractions, underscoring a broader issue with the team's offensive cohesion.

The bottom line: The Vikings must address their pre-snap discipline as they move forward in the season.

With playoffs aspirations, they cannot afford to be consistently hampered by self-inflicted penalties.

As the team reviews footage and strategizes corrections, maintaining focus will be paramount to reclaiming both their rhythm and momentum in upcoming games.