The game started with the Vikings forcing a turnover on downs following a fake punt by the Lions. A couple of plays later, veteran running back Aaron Jones took a carry, bounced outside, and raced 34 yards for a touchdown to make it 7-0 in favor of the Vikings.

Justin Jefferson and Aaron Jones scored touchdowns for the Vikings' offense. Sam Darnold was mostly solid outside of an interception in the first half that led to one of the Lions' scores, but he couldn't connect with Jefferson on a key third down late in the game.

He also helped Jared Goff guide the Lions 48 yards in four plays to get in range for their rookie kicker while forcing the Vikings to burn their timeouts. Bates is 10 for 10 on field goals this season.