Lions top previously unbeaten Vikings 31-29 on late FG to cap NFC North thriller
Jake Bates kicked a 44-yard field goal with 15 seconds left to lift the Detroit Lions to a 31-29 victory that handed the Minnesota Vikings their first loss in a back-and-forth game befitting of the NFL’s strongest division
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Detroit Lions became division champions for the first time in 30 years late last season with a clinching win at Minnesota. They departed this time with another memorable and resilient performance — plus a big boost in their pursuit of another NFC North title.
Jake Bates kicked a 44-yard field goal with 15 seconds left in the Lions ' 31-29 victory on Sunday, handing the Vikings their first loss in a back-and-forth game befitting of the NFL's strongest division.
“We talked about patience, keeping your composure, communication and an attitude, and our guys did that,” coach Dan Campbell said. “We didn’t bat an eye when things appeared to start going a little south.”
Jahmyr Gibbs rushed for 116 yards and two of Detroit's three second-quarter touchdowns. 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.
