The Minnesota Vikings vs Detroit Lions match player stats tell the story of one of the NFL’s most competitive divisional rivalries. These two NFC North powerhouses have delivered thrilling matchups throughout the 2024 season, with each game featuring standout performances from elite players on both sides.
This comprehensive analysis breaks down the key player statistics, game-changing performances, and tactical battles that have defined this modern rivalry.
October 20, 2024: Lions Edge Vikings 31-29 in Thriller
Final Score & Game Overview
The Detroit Lions vs Minnesota Vikings clash on October 20, 2024, at U.S. Bank Stadium was a defensive coordinator’s chess match that came down to the final seconds.
The Lions secured a dramatic 31-29 victory with Jake Bates’ 44-yard field goal with just 15 seconds remaining, handing the previously undefeated Vikings their first loss of the season.
Detroit Lions Offensive Player Stats
Jared Goff – Quarterback Excellence
The Lions quarterback delivered another masterclass performance in what would become his third consecutive game with a 140+ passer rating:
- Completion Rate: 22 of 25 (88.0%)
- Passing Yards: 280 yards
- Touchdowns: 2 TD passes
- Interceptions: 0
- Passer Rating: 140.0
- Yards Per Attempt: 11.2
Goff’s historic performance placed him alongside Aaron Rodgers (2011), Kurt Warner (1999), and Roger Staubach (1971) as the only quarterbacks in NFL history to achieve three straight games with a 140+ passer rating.
The veteran signal-caller systematically dismantled Minnesota’s blitz-heavy defense, particularly excelling in the second quarter when Detroit scored three touchdowns.
Jahmyr Gibbs – Dynamic Dual-Threat
The Lions running back emerged as the game’s most explosive offensive weapon:
- Rushing Yards: 116 yards on 15 carries
- Rushing Average: 7.7 yards per carry
- Rushing Touchdowns: 2 TDs (45-yard TD, 8-yard TD)
- Receiving Yards: 34 yards
- Total Yards from Scrimmage: 150 yards
Gibbs’ 45-yard touchdown run in the second quarter was a thing of beauty, showcasing elite vision and tackle-breaking ability as he embarrassed Vikings safety Cam Bynum with a devastating juke move. His performance was crucial in establishing Detroit’s ground game dominance against Minnesota’s second-ranked run defense.
Amon-Ra St. Brown – Reliable Target
The Lions wide receiver continued his consistent production:
- Receiving Touchdown: 35-yard TD catch from Goff
- Key Plays: Multiple first-down conversions
Kalif Raymond – Clutch Performer
- Receiving Touchdown: 21-yard TD reception
- Role: Critical depth receiver in the Lions passing attack
Jake Bates – Game-Winning Kicker
- Field Goals: 3-for-3, including the game-winning 44-yarder
- Season Record: 10-for-10 on field goals
- Impact: Plucked from the United Football League, Bates proved to be one of the season’s best acquisitions
Minnesota Vikings Offensive Player Stats
Sam Darnold – Efficient Despite Loss
The Vikings quarterback had a statistically impressive game that didn’t translate to victory:
- Completions: 22 of 27 (81.5%)
- Passing Yards: 259 yards
- Touchdowns: 1 TD pass
- Interceptions: 1 (thrown to Brian Branch)
- Time to Throw: 3.28 seconds average (season-high)
Darnold’s critical mistake came in the second quarter when he forced a throw to Jordan Addison that was intercepted by Lions safety Brian Branch, killing a promising drive. His failed 2-point conversion attempt to Justin Jefferson after Ivan Pace’s fumble return touchdown proved costly.
Justin Jefferson – Star Receiver Performance
The All-Pro wide receiver delivered despite the loss:
- Receiving Yards: 81 yards on 7 catches
- Receiving Touchdowns: 1 TD (25-yard scoring strike from Darnold)
- Targets: Multiple missed connections on crucial plays
Jefferson’s chemistry with Darnold showed through, but two critical incomplete passes—the failed 2-point conversion and a third-down throw that sailed too high—cost Minnesota dearly in the fourth quarter.
Aaron Jones – Ground Game Workhorse
The Vikings running back continued his productive first season in Minnesota:
- Rushing Yards: 93 yards
- Rushing Touchdowns: 1 TD (34-yard scoring run)
- Status: Played through questionable designation with hamstring injury
- Impact: Provided veteran leadership and explosive rushing plays
Will Reichard – Special Teams Excellence
The rookie kicker showed remarkable range:
- Field Goals: 3-for-3
- Long: 57-yard field goal
- Additional Makes: 42-yard, 48-yard field goals
- Extra Points: Perfect on PAT attempts
Defensive Player Stats & Game-Changing Plays
Ivan Pace Jr. – Defensive Touchdown
- Fumble Return: 36-yard scoop-and-score TD
- Impact: Gave Vikings brief 29-28 lead in fourth quarter
- Season Stat: Third defensive touchdown for Minnesota
Brian Branch – Turnover Creator
- Interceptions: 1 (crucial second-quarter pick)
- Role: Key member of Lions secondary
January 5, 2025: Lions Dominate 31-9 in Week 18
Game Context & Playoff Implications
The Lions vs Vikings Week 18 matchup carried massive playoff implications, with both teams entering at 14-2. Detroit’s dominant performance secured the NFC North title and the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs.
Detroit Lions Player Statistics
Jahmyr Gibbs – Four-Touchdown Performance
The second-year running back delivered a star-making performance on the national stage:
- Rushing Touchdowns: 3 TDs
- Receiving Touchdowns: 1 TD
- Total Touchdowns: 4 (all Lions offensive TDs)
- First Score: 25-yard rushing touchdown
- Impact: Cemented status as elite dual-threat back
Jared Goff – Record-Setting Season
Despite two interceptions, Goff’s season achievements were remarkable:
- Completions: 27 of 33
- Season Records:
- 9 games with 75%+ completion rate (NFL record)
- Only QB in NFL history with 4,500+ yards and 72%+ completion rate
- Performance: Set standard for quarterback efficiency
Sam LaPorta – Emerging Tight End Weapon
- Receptions: 7 catches (team-high)
- Receiving Yards: 63 yards
- First Downs: 3 catches converted to first downs
- Recent Stretch: 24 catches for 281 yards and 2 TDs over last four games
Minnesota Vikings Player Statistics
Sam Darnold – Struggling Under Pressure
The Vikings signal-caller had one of his worst games of the season:
- Interceptions: 2
- Performance Issues: Multiple off-target throws in crucial moments
- Season Achievement: Despite loss, finished with 14-win record (first QB in new team history)
Justin Jefferson – Limited Impact
- Production: Held relatively quiet by Lions defense
- Coverage: Faced tight man-coverage schemes throughout
Head-to-Head Statistical Comparison: Key Players
Quarterback Battle: Goff vs Darnold
| Category | Jared Goff (Oct ’24) | Sam Darnold (Oct ’24) |
| Completion % | 88.0% | 81.5% |
| Yards | 280 | 259 |
| TDs | 2 | 1 |
| INTs | 0 | 1 |
| Passer Rating | 140.0 | ~95.0 |
| YPA | 11.2 | 9.6 |
Running Back Showdown: Gibbs vs Jones
| Category | Jahmyr Gibbs (Oct ’24) | Aaron Jones (Oct ’24) |
| Rushing Yards | 116 | 93 |
| YPC | 7.7 | ~5.5 |
| Rush TDs | 2 | 1 |
| Total Yards | 150 | ~120 |
| Explosive Plays | 45-yard TD run | 34-yard TD run |
Tactical Analysis: What the Stats Reveal
Detroit’s Offensive Dominance
The Lions offense ranked third in the NFL in total yards and first in scoring (30.2 PPG) during this stretch. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s play-calling consistently created mismatches against Minnesota’s aggressive defensive schemes.
Key Statistical Advantages:
- Explosive Play Rate: 11 explosive plays (16+ yard catches, 12+ yard runs) in October matchup
- Second Quarter Dominance: Three scoring drives covering 69+ yards each
- Third Down Efficiency: Exceptional conversion rate through creative play design
- Blitz-Beating: Goff’s 88% completion rate neutralized Minnesota’s 41.1% blitz rate
Minnesota’s Defensive Challenges
Despite entering as the No. 5 ranked scoring defense, Minnesota struggled to contain Detroit’s balanced attack:
- Run Defense Breakdown: Allowed 144 rushing yards (5.3 YPC) vs. second-ranked run defense
- Coverage Issues: Struggled with Detroit’s offensive line protection
- Blitz Effectiveness: High blitz rate backfired against Goff’s quick release
- Missed Tackles: Multiple broken tackles led to explosive plays
Vikings Offensive Efficiency
Minnesota’s offense showed resilience but critical errors proved costly:
- Red Zone Issues: Failed fourth-down conversion inside opponent’s 3-yard line
- 2-Point Conversion Failure: Missed opportunity after Pace’s fumble return
- Penalty Problems: Illegal formation penalty pushed them out of field goal range
- Time Management: Inability to sustain drives in crucial moments
Season Series Summary: Lions vs Vikings 2024
Overall Record
- Detroit Lions: 2-1 vs Minnesota Vikings (2024 season)
- Current Streak: Lions won 4 consecutive games vs Vikings (longest since 1961-63)
Statistical Trends
Scoring Averages:
- Lions: 30.3 PPG in series
- Vikings: 22.3 PPG in series
Turnover Battle:
- Critical factor in determining game outcomes
- Lions’ ability to protect the ball (+2 turnover differential)
Special Teams Impact:
- Jake Bates: Perfect kicking for Detroit
- Will Reichard: Clutch long-range field goals for Minnesota
Impact Players: Season-Long Performance
Jared Goff’s MVP-Caliber Season
The Lions quarterback emerged as one of the league’s most underrated players:
- Season Average: 266 passing yards per game
- Efficiency: Third consecutive game with 140+ passer rating (historical feat)
- Clutch Factor: Thrives in pressure situations
- Historical Context: Joined elite company with Rodgers, Warner, and Staubach
Jahmyr Gibbs’ Breakout Campaign
The dynamic running back established himself as a game-changer:
- Versatility: Effective as runner and receiver
- Explosive Plays: Multiple touchdowns of 20+ yards
- Missed Tackles Forced: Elite tackle-breaking ability
- Thunder-Lightning Duo: Perfect complement to David Montgomery
Sam Darnold’s Resurgence
The Vikings quarterback had a remarkable 2024 season despite late struggles:
- Season Record: 14 wins (most by QB in first season with new team)
- 100+ Passer Rating Games: 13 (tied for NFL lead with Lamar Jackson)
- Career Highs: Multiple statistical benchmarks achieved
- Weapons: Finally surrounded by elite talent (Jefferson, Jones)
Justin Jefferson’s Continued Excellence
The All-Pro receiver remained one of the NFL’s best despite inconsistent QB play throughout his career:
- Separation Skills: Elite route-running creates consistent opportunities
- Man Coverage Dominance: Thrives against press coverage
- Big-Play Ability: Consistent deep-threat presence
- Leadership: Offensive captain and vocal leader
Advanced Metrics & Analytics
Lions Offensive Line Performance
Detroit’s offensive line provided exceptional protection:
- Sack Rate: Minimal pressure allowed on Goff
- Run Blocking: Created consistent rushing lanes for Gibbs/Montgomery
- Injuries Managed: Overcame Kevin Zeitler (groin) absence effectively
Vikings Defensive Scheme Analysis
Coordinator Brian Flores’ aggressive approach:
- Blitz Rate: 41.1% (highest in NFL)
- Coverage Disguises: Multiple pre-snap looks to confuse QBs
- Man Coverage: High usage rate against elite receivers
- Pressure Rate: Top-10 in QB pressures despite blitz failures
Critical Game Situations
Fourth Down Conversions:
- Lions:Aggressive on fourth down with high success rate
- Vikings: Failed conversions at crucial moments cost field position
Red Zone Efficiency:
- Lions: High touchdown rate in red zone
- Vikings: Settled for field goals too frequently
Player Injury Impact
October 20 Game Injuries
Detroit Lions:
- David Montgomery: Knee injury (returned same game)
- Kevin Zeitler: Groin (inactive)
- Impact: Kayode Awosika filled in with mixed results
Minnesota Vikings:
- Blake Cashman: Toe (inactive)
- Aaron Jones: Hamstring (played through questionable status)
Season-Long Injury Considerations
- Aidan Hutchinson: Lions lost star pass rusher earlier in season
- Christian Darrisaw: Vikings lost starting left tackle
- Special Teams Health: Both kickers remained healthy and effective
Fantasy Football Implications
Must-Start Players
Detroit Lions:
- Jared Goff: QB1 performance in favorable matchups
- Jahmyr Gibbs: RB1 with league-winning upside
- Amon-Ra St. Brown: Consistent WR1 target share
Minnesota Vikings:
- Justin Jefferson: Elite WR1 regardless of matchup
- Aaron Jones: Consistent RB1/RB2 production
- Sam Darnold: Streaming QB option (matchup-dependent)
Situational Starts
- Sam LaPorta: Emerging as reliable TE1 option
- Will Reichard: Consistent kicker with big-leg range
- Jake Bates: Perfect accuracy makes him valuable K option
Coaching Impact: Strategic Battles
Dan Campbell (Lions)
The Detroit head coach continued his aggressive philosophy:
- Fourth Down Aggression: Willing to take calculated risks
- Player Development: Maximized talent across roster
- Composure: “Didn’t bat an eye when things went south”
- Culture Building: Created winning mentality in Detroit
Kevin O’Connell (Vikings)
The Minnesota head coach showed creative offensive design:
- Play Calling: Innovative schemes to maximize weapons
- Quarterback Development: Resurrected Darnold’s career
- Adjustments: Made effective in-game modifications
- Self-Accountability: Acknowledged penalties and execution issues
Coordinator Battles
Ben Johnson (Lions OC) vs Brian Flores (Vikings DC):
The offensive coordinator consistently outmaneuvered the aggressive defensive coordinator through:
- Quick passing concepts against blitzes
- RPO schemes to create confusion
- Creative personnel groupings
- Exploiting man coverage weaknesses
Historical Context: Vikings vs Lions Rivalry
All-Time Series
While the Lions and Vikings have battled throughout NFL history, recent trends favor Detroit:
- 2024 Season: Lions dominated the series 2-1
- Current Streak: 4 consecutive Lions victories
- Last Vikings Dominance: Prior to 2023 season
- Playoff Implications: Games regularly decide NFC North title
Memorable Moments from 2024
- Jake Bates’ Game-Winner: 44-yard field goal with 15 seconds left
- Gibbs’ 45-Yard TD: Juking Cam Bynum for spectacular score
- Goff’s Historic Efficiency: Third straight 140+ passer rating game
- Pace’s Scoop-and-Score: 36-yard fumble return for Vikings TD
- Reichard’s 57-Yarder: Showcasing rookie’s big leg
Future Outlook: What Stats Predict
Detroit Lions Trajectory
The Lions’ player statistics suggest sustainable success:
- Offensive Firepower: Elite QB play with dynamic weapons
- Balanced Attack: Can win through air or ground
- Coaching Excellence: Top-tier play-calling and adjustments
- Clutch Performance: Late-game execution under pressure
Minnesota Vikings Development
The Vikings’ statistical profile shows room for improvement:
- Defensive Adjustments: Need answers for elite offenses
- Offensive Line: Must protect Darnold better
- Execution: Eliminating penalties and missed opportunities
- Quarterback Consistency: Darnold’s sustainability questioned
Key Takeaways: Vikings vs Lions Player Stats
Dominant Performances
- Jared Goff’s Elite Play: 88% completion rate, 140.0 passer rating, zero turnovers
- Jahmyr Gibbs’ Explosiveness: 150 total yards, 2 TDs, 7.7 YPC average
- Justin Jefferson’s Reliability: Consistent production despite loss
- Aaron Jones’ Versatility: 93 rushing yards through injury
Game-Deciding Factors
- Turnover Battle: Brian Branch’s interception swung momentum
- Special Teams: Both kickers performed excellently
- Penalties: Vikings’ illegal formation penalty proved critical
- Clock Management: Lions’ ability to drain time in closing seconds
Statistical Anomalies
- Goff’s third straight 140+ rating (historical rarity)
- Vikings’ second-ranked run defense allowing 144 yards
- Darnold’s 3.28 second time-to-throw (season high)
- Lions’ 11 explosive plays in single game
Conclusion: A Rivalry Built on Star Power
The Minnesota Vikings vs Detroit Lions match player stats reveal two teams loaded with elite talent engaged in one of the NFL’s most competitive divisional rivalries.
Detroit’s balanced offense, led by Goff’s precision passing and Gibbs’ explosive playmaking, has proven to be a nearly unstoppable force. Meanwhile, Minnesota’s combination of Darnold’s resurgence and Jefferson’s All-Pro brilliance keeps them competitive in every matchup.
The Lions’ ability to win close games through superior execution in critical moments has given them the edge in this rivalry. However, the Vikings’ talented roster ensures that every meeting will be fiercely contested. As both teams continue to develop and refine their identities, this NFC North clash will remain must-watch football for years to come.
For fans analyzing player statistics and performance metrics, these games provide textbook examples of how individual excellence translates to team success. Whether it’s Goff’s surgical precision, Gibbs’ game-breaking speed, Jefferson’s route-running mastery, or Jones’ reliable production, the Vikings-Lions rivalry showcases the NFL at its finest.
FAQ: Vikings vs Lions Match Player Stats
Q: Who won the October 20, 2024 game between Vikings and Lions?
The Detroit Lions won 31-29 on a last-second 44-yard field goal by Jake Bates, handing the Vikings their first loss of the season.
Q: What were Jared Goff’s stats in the October matchup?
Goff completed 22 of 25 passes (88%) for 280 yards, 2 touchdowns, 0 interceptions, and a 140.0 passer rating.
Q: How many touchdowns did Jahmyr Gibbs score against the Vikings?
Gibbs scored 2 rushing touchdowns in the October game and 4 total touchdowns (3 rushing, 1 receiving) in the Week 18 matchup.
Q: What was Sam Darnold’s performance like against Detroit?
In October, Darnold went 22-for-27 for 259 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT with an 81.5% completion rate.
Q: How did the Lions defense perform?
Detroit’s defense created key turnovers, with Brian Branch’s interception being crucial, though they struggled without injured star Aidan Hutchinson.
Q: Who is the better running back: Gibbs or Jones?
Both are elite, but Gibbs showed higher explosiveness (7.7 YPC) while Jones provided consistency and reliability (93 yards through injury).
Q: What makes the Vikings-Lions rivalry significant?
Both teams compete for NFC North supremacy with loaded rosters, making their matchups critical for playoff positioning and division titles.
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