LAS VEGAS — Ivan Pace Jr. was the best defensive player on the field for the Vikings on Sunday at Allegiant Stadium. So, it’s only right that the undrafted rookie linebacker made the biggest play of the game, intercepting a pass in the final minute to help the Vikings hold on for a 3-0 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.

It was a perfect play from Pace as he read the eyes of Raiders rookie quarterback Aidan O’Connell, then jumped a hitch route intended for star receiver Davante Adams. Asked about the coverage, Pace remembered that Adams ran a hitch route on the first play of the game.

“Just me in my mind getting the jitters out, I was scared to take it,” Pace said of not breaking up the pass on the first play of the game. “The last play they did the same thing, and I had to take it that time.”

After making the interception in the critical moment, Pace did a backflip in the end zone while the rest of his teammates rushed to celebrate alongside him.

“I feel great,” Pace said. “I love my dogs out here. They did it with me. That’s all I can say.”

The final stat line for Pace was impressive as he finished with 13 tackles, a sack, and an interception. Not bad for an undrafted rookie who the Vikings made a priority of signing when he hit the open market.

“Just looking forward to what’s out in front of I.P.,” head coach Kevin O’Connell said. ” He’s doing a heck of a job for our team right now.”

It’s been a slow build for Pace to this point as he played behind veteran linebacker Jordan Hicks for a good chunk of this season. He stepped into a more prominent role with Hicks on injured reserve while he recovers from the lasting effects of compartment syndrome in his lower right leg.

Though it’s a lot to ask for young player, Pace has taken it and run with hit, impressing his teammates in the process.

“It’s surprising he went undrafted seeing his play now,” Vikings safety Cam Bynum said. “We got a steal in him.”

Indeed. Some analytics have placed Pace among the best defensive rookies in the league. It’s hard to argue with that considering his performance when the Vikings needed him most.

Has he surprised himself at all during his rise?

“No,” Pace said. “I’ve got that dog in me. That’s all I’ve got to say. I ain’t never been surprised. I know how good I am. I’ve been showing the world since I was young that I was good. Now I’m here in the league and still proving it.”

Related Articles

Nick Mullens replaces Josh Dobbs at quarterback, leads Vikings to 3-0 win over Raiders

Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson leaves game against Raiders, taken to local hospital out of precaution

Ed Ingram ruled out with hip injury, Blake Brandel set to start for Vikings

Charley Walters: Dobbs still gives Vikings their best chance to win

Vikings offensive coordinator Wes Phillips arrested on suspicion of DWI