RECAP: The Detroit Lions narrowly defeated the Minnesota Vikings, advancing to first place in the NFC North.
The game featured streaky runs. The Vikings quickly took a 10-0 lead, but the Lions answered with three second-quarter touchdowns, bringing the score to 28-10 by halftime.
Detroit held the lead most of the game until David Montgomery’s fumble, which was returned for a touchdown, shifted momentum. However, the Lions reclaimed the win with a 44-yard field goal with 15 seconds remaining.
BFirst quarter
The Vikings won the toss, deferring to the Lions. Detroit’s first drive faltered due to a holding penalty on Kayode Awosika. A sack then forced a three-and-out, followed by a failed fake punt, gifting Minnesota prime field position.
Minnesota capitalized in two plays, with Aaron Jones scoring on a 34-yard run, making it 7-0. Detroit’s offense again stalled, going three-and-out. Minnesota then added to their lead with a 57-yard field goal. 10-0 Vikings.
Tim Patrick nearly lost the ball on Detroit’s next possession, but a review saved the play. However, Detroit remained without a first down. David Montgomery got injured on third-and-inches but later returned. Detroit punted, but holding penalties on the Vikings gave the Lions another chance.
Second quarter
The Lions finally found their rhythm. A 45-yard touchdown run by Gibbs made it 10-7 Vikings. The defense followed with a strong stand, highlighted by Brian Branch’s pass breakup.
Detroit moved quickly, thanks to Amon-Ra St. Brown’s 17-yard catch and a roughing the passer call. Goff connected with St. Brown for a 35-yard touchdown. 14-10 Lions.
Minnesota responded with a drive into Lions territory, but Branch intercepted a pass to end it. Detroit’s offense then marched downfield, with Gibbs scoring another touchdown. 21-10 Lions.
The half ended quietly with Minnesota unable to respond.
Third quarter
Minnesota opened the half with a touchdown drive, capped by a 25-yard pass to Jefferson. 21-17 Lions.
Detroit answered with a touchdown drive, including a 21-yard catch from Raymond, bringing the score to 28-17.
Minnesota pushed back into Lions’ territory but settled for a field goal after a sack. 28-20 Lions.
Fourth quarter
The Vikings started strong, but Malcolm Rodriguez’s sack forced them to settle for another field goal. 28-23 Lions.
Montgomery’s fumble allowed Minnesota to return the ball for a touchdown, taking a 29-28 lead.
Detroit’s offense struggled, going three-and-out. But their defense responded, getting the ball back with 2:32 left.
Runs by Gibbs and key passes brought Detroit into field goal range. Jake Bates then kicked a 44-yard game-winner with 15 seconds remaining. 31-29 Lions.
The Vikings couldn’t recover, and the Lions secured the win.
