Vikings defeat Lions with only 3 net passing yards, marking rare win in NFL history

The Minnesota Vikings achieved an improbable victory against the Detroit Lions, winning despite recording only three net passing yards.

Why it matters: This victory highlights not only the unpredictable nature of the NFL but also demonstrates that success can come through unconventional means.

• The Vikings’ win marks just the third time in the past 40 seasons a team has triumphed with fewer than 10 net passing yards.
• Their performance ranks as the second-fewest passing yards ever recorded by a team winning by ten or more points since the NFL's 1970 merger.

What’s new: Max Brosmer, starting for the second time in place of injured quarterback J.J. McCarthy, led the Vikings to this unusual win.

• Despite being sacked six times and hit five additional times, Brosmer completed 9 of 16 passes for 51 yards.
• Remarkably, only three of those passes traveled more than five yards beyond the line of scrimmage.

By the numbers: The Vikings offensive statistics from this game are strikingly low.

• The team improved its record to 8-8 with this victory.
• Over the course of his two starts and parts of four other games this season, Brosmer has accumulated a total of 271 passing yards.

Yes, but: While the win is notable, it raises questions about the Vikings' overall offensive strategy and effectiveness moving forward.

• Head Coach Kevin O'Connell acknowledged that the team did not meet their standard in the passing game, stating, "It wasn't our standard... I've learned a lot as a head coach of [doing] whatever it takes to win each and every opportunity that you get."

What to watch: Moving ahead, the Vikings must address their passing game as they look toward the postseason.

• J.J. McCarthy's recovery will be crucial; O'Connell noted, "He's doing well... It's all going to come down to just grip strength and his ability to grip the football and throw it."
• Should McCarthy return to form, it could significantly alter the offensive dynamic for the Vikings.

The bottom line: Although the Vikings' victory is a testament to resilience and determination, it underscores the need for improvement in their aerial attack as they navigate the rest of the season.