The Minnesota Vikings got their second win of the season in Week 6. The win was the team's first divisional victory of the season. 

While a win is a win, this is far from the prettiest game ever. The Vikings' offense struggled to get much going, but thankfully the defense made enough plays to secure a 19-13 victory. 

Now, let's analyze the biggest winners and losers for the Vikes. 

Winner: Josh Metellus

Metellus was a force for the Vikings on Sunday. The versatile defensive back racked up 8 tackles, 1 sack, 2 tackles for loss, and 3 QB hits. 

This is the type of game that showcased exactly what the Vikings love about Metellus. The defender helped out in pass coverage, run defense, and the pass rush. Every week, the Vikings are getting fantastic play from one of the safeties. Today, it was Metellus. 

Loser: Cam Akers

Akers has to be considered a loser, but it’s not his fault. Inexplicably, the running back didn’t get many opportunities. 

Akers caught 1 pass for 7 yards and took 1 carry for 8 yards. With the Vikings in control the entire game, it was confusing that Akers didn't see the field more. Especially considering the fact that Alexander Mattison again struggled to get anything going. 

Winner: Byron Murphy Jr.

Murphy had statistically been one of the worst corners in the league through three weeks. Since then, however, Murphy has improved. The veteran corner had his best game as a Viking this weekend. 

Murphy collected 4 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 3 pass defenses, and an interception. This was a nice bounce-back game for the vet, and exactly the type of performance the Vikes expected when they signed him. 

Loser: Alexander Mattison

Once again, Mattison finds himself on the “losers” section of one of these lists. The back was unable to get anything going on the ground, ending with just 44 yards on 18 carries. Mattison was again unable to average even 3 yards per carry. 

The Vikings' line has been much improved of late, so it's hard to point the finger there. The Bears have been a decent run defense, but still, it wasn't disappointing to see Mattison struggle so much. 

Winner: TJ Hockenson

Hockenson has to be considered a winner because he did exactly what he was expected to do. The tight end grabbed 6 catches for 50 yards, including a long of 21 yards. 

The tight end was a reliable safeguard for Kirk Cousins today and didn't cause any turnovers. On a day when the offense struggled, Hockenson was a steady option. 

Loser: Kirk Cousins

Cousins is again on the “losers” list. The QB again turned the ball over, losing a fumble. You could tell the QB missed his star receiver because Cousins looked uncomfortable all day. 

Cousins finished the day with 181 yards with 1 TD and 1 turnover. The Bears had the 31st-ranked pass defense in the league, so it's disappointing that Cousins wasn't able to exploit that. The offense will have to get it figured out because Justin Jefferson isn't coming back for a while. 

Winner: Danielle Hunter

Hunter has been an absolute force this season. The star edge rusher once again had 2 sacks, cementing his status as the team’s best pass rusher. 

Hunter ended the day with 7 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 tackles for loss, 1 pass defense, and 2 QB hits. For much of the season, Hunter has been the lone bright spot for the Vikings' pass rush. Hunter is having one of his best seasons as a Viking in 2023.  

3 takeaways from the Vikings’ Week 6 win over the Bears

Instant takeaways from the Vikings’ win.

Featured image via © Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports