Vikings just did what no team has been able to accomplish in over 40 years during their Christmas Day win over the Lions

Brian Flores’ defense led the Minnesota Vikings to a 23-10 win, as the offense was historically poor in the process.

Tyler Forness — NFL & College Football News Writer
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Dec 25, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Max Brosmer (12) looks on after the game against the Detroit Lions at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

Thursday afternoon saw the Minnesota Vikings give the Detroit Lions a giant lump of coal in a 23-10 win on Christmas Day.

The number one element of the Vikings’ win was the performance from Brian Flores’ defense, as they forced six turnovers on the day, including five from Lions quarterback Jared Goff. They dominated nearly every aspect of the game when they were on the field.

Vikings won vs. Lions despite an atrocious passing performance

While the defense thrived against Goff and the Lions, the Vikings’ offense didn’t do very much on the day. They were at negative net passing yards for most of the game, as quarterback Max Brosmer struggled massively throughout the day. He finished the day with 51 passing yards, which allowed to achieve something that hasn’t been seen since 1983.

Brosmer was sacked seven times for a grand total of 48 yards, giving the Vikings three net passing yards on the day.

It’s an absolutely wild stat, as passing has been the focus for the Vikings on offense. However, it’s not too surprising considering the Vikings were on their third-string quarterback and had backups at left tackle, right tackle, and center.

It’s also a testament to the improvement of the running game. The Vikings average 5.6 yards per carry on the day, including a 63-yard touchdown where head coach Kevin O’Connell called a brilliant counter punch with a jet sweep to Jordan Addison.

“I thought the Jordan Addison play was huge to get us a little breathing room there,” said O’Connell after the game. “Great execution by the guys, and phenomenal by Jordan. To finish that thing with a touchdown.”

It’s not the sexiest way for the Vikings to win a football game. In fact, it’s the ugliest we’ve seen since the 3-0 win over the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023. They are now 8-8 on the season, and that’s a tremendous accomplishment considering the trials and tribulations this year.

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