In a tale that’s probably been told too many times, Adam Thielen, a Minnesota native, did not receive an invite to the NFL combine. The Mankato State product worked his way up the Vikings’ roster until he became an essential part of the Minnesota offense.
So when it comes to the Vikings’ rivalry between the Packers, Thielen understands what’s at stake. He talked about the heated matchup after Minnesota bested Green Bay in Week 11:
“I got to talk to the guys last night because I grew up in Minnesota,” Thielen said. “What this game means… a lot of guys, they know it’s a big deal, but they don’t really understand if you don’t live it, you know? Just being able to tell them. … Wearing the Vikings jersey all week at school. And then, going to school on Monday and all the Packer fans coming at you if you lose and giving you a hard time. I’m excited for the kids to be able to go to school tomorrow and wear the Vikings stuff.”
.@athielen19 grew up in Minnesota.
He knows what's at stake when we play those guys.
And last night at the team meeting, he let everybody know it.
đź“ş: @NFLNetwork pic.twitter.com/nwaFrXU1KH
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 21, 2021
Thielen finished with 82 yards and a touchdown reception. His longest reception came at a big moment. Late in the fourth quarter, Thielen caught a pass that was almost intercepted. The Vikings wideout turned upfield and gained 26 yards on the play. Minnesota (5-5) hit the game-winning field goal to cap off that drive.