The New York Jets were Jets’ing very, very early yesterday thanks to the quick hands of Gerald Hodges.

Hodges, a linebacker leader of Penn State’s fearsome 2012 defense and current Minnesota Viking, snared a pass from Geno Smith on the very first offensive play of Jets-Vikings game yesterday, then sprinted his way 27 yards into the end zone for his first NFL points. Note the swag on the ball flip to the official.

At 12 seconds into the game, it was the fastest score in the history of the Vikings’ organization, according to twincities.com.

According to Vikes’ safety Harrison Smith, this was a big weight off of Hodges’ shoulders.

“I was just kind of looking at the ball and saw Gerald jump up and grab it, and him getting it to the end zone was awesome,” Smith said to Vikings.com. “We’ve kind of been giving him some trouble in practice because we’ve seen him drop a couple, but he made up for it.” The Vikings won it in overtime, 30-24.

This is the most notable of Hodges’ successes this year, but he’s been solid for most of the season. After starting the season playing mostly special teams, he’s earned more playing time and racked up 39 tackles. Right-hand man Michael Mauti isn’t doing too shabby, either.

About the Author

Tim Gilbert

Former managing editor and staff writer.

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