In a gripping showdown at Lucas Oil Stadium, the Minnesota Vikings rallied from behind to secure a 21-13 victory over the Indianapolis Colts, thanks to a stellar performance from quarterback Sam Darnold, who threw three touchdown passes in the second half.
The game began with a strong defensive display from both teams, leading to a scoreless first quarter. The Colts managed to find the end zone in the second quarter, with running back Jonathan Taylor breaking through for a touchdown run, giving Indianapolis a 7-0 lead at halftime.
However, the Vikings, led by Darnold, came out determined after the break. After a slow start, Darnold found his rhythm, connecting with wide receiver Justin Jefferson for a 25-yard touchdown pass that tied the game at 7-7. The Colts responded with a field goal from Matt Gay, reclaiming a 10-7 lead.
But the momentum shifted dramatically in the fourth quarter. Darnold threw a spectacular 40-yard touchdown to K.J. Osborn, putting the Vikings ahead 14-10. Just when it seemed the Colts might regain control, Darnold struck again, this time targeting tight end T.J. Hockenson for another touchdown, extending Minnesota’s lead to 21-10.
The Colts fought back, with quarterback Gardner Minshew leading a drive that culminated in a touchdown pass to Michael Pittman Jr., narrowing the score to 21-13. Despite a strong effort, the Colts couldn’t complete the comeback, and the Vikings held on for the win.
Darnold’s second-half surge showcased not only his ability to bounce back but also the Vikings’ resilience as they improved their record to 5-3. The Colts, now at 3-5, will need to regroup as they look to turn their season around in the coming weeks.
“We just have to keep fighting,” said Colts head coach Shane Steichen. “We had our chances, but we need to execute better in critical moments.”
Next week, the Vikings will host the Chicago Bears, while the Colts will travel to face the New England Patriots, both teams eager to make their mark in the playoff race.
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