Lions vs. Vikings Recap, Score and Highlights: Minnesota Ends Detroit’s Streak 27-24

The Minnesota Vikings snapped their losing streak against the Detroit Lions with a thrilling 27-24 victory on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Ford Field. Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy led the charge, throwing two touchdown passes and rushing for another as Minnesota handed Detroit its first divisional loss of the season.

Detroit opened the game strong with a 40-yard touchdown by tight end Sam LaPorta, but struggled to maintain offensive consistency afterward. The Vikings’ defensive front controlled the line of scrimmage, limiting Detroit’s run game to just 65 yards and forcing constant pressure on Jared Goff throughout the afternoon.

J.J. McCarthy Shines in Breakout Performance

McCarthy displayed calm leadership and precision in his first career start against Detroit. The rookie completed 14 of 25 passes for 182 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. He added a 9-yard rushing touchdown in the second half that proved pivotal. His passing scores went to Justin Jefferson (10 yards) and T.J. Hockenson (7 yards), helping Minnesota build and maintain its lead.

Goff completed 25 of 37 passes for 284 yards and two touchdowns, including a 37-yard strike to Jameson Williams late in the fourth quarter to narrow the deficit to three points. Despite his accuracy, Goff was sacked five times as Minnesota’s defensive front, led by Danielle Hunter, disrupted Detroit’s rhythm with 11 quarterback hits and 10 tackles for loss.

Blocked Field Goal and Defensive Grit Seal the Game

The game’s defining moment came midway through the fourth quarter. Trailing 24-17, Detroit attempted a 41-yard field goal to close the gap, but the kick was blocked by Minnesota’s special teams. Isaiah Rodgers returned the loose ball deep into Lions territory, setting up a short field that led to a crucial Vikings score. That play swung momentum permanently in Minnesota’s favor.

LaPorta was Detroit’s standout performer, catching six passes for 89 yards and a touchdown. Both his longest receptions—a 40-yard score and a 17-yard fourth-down grab—came in key moments. However, it wasn’t enough to overcome Minnesota’s balanced attack and late-game execution.

The Lions also suffered a setback when left guard Christian Mahogany exited in the fourth quarter with a knee injury and did not return. His status for next week’s matchup against Washington remains uncertain.

The Vikings’ victory, powered by J.J. McCarthy’s breakout performance, not only ended Detroit’s five-game winning streak over Minnesota but also tightened the NFC North race heading into Week 10.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was the final score of the Lions vs. Vikings game?

The Minnesota Vikings defeated the Detroit Lions 27-24 at Ford Field on November 2, 2025.

Q2: Who scored touchdowns for the Vikings?

J.J. McCarthy threw touchdown passes to Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson and ran for one himself.

Q3: Who led the Lions in receiving?

Tight end Sam LaPorta led Detroit with six receptions for 89 yards and a touchdown.

Q4: What was the biggest play of the game?

A fourth-quarter blocked field goal returned by Isaiah Rodgers set up a key Vikings score that helped secure the win.

Q5: Who do the Lions play next?

The Lions travel to face the Washington Commanders on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 4:25 p.m. ET.