**Lions Edge Vikings with Last-Minute Field Goal in a Nail-Biter**

Jake Bates nailed a 44-yard field goal with just 15 seconds remaining, clinching a 31-29 victory for the Detroit Lions over the Minnesota Vikings in a thrilling encounter. The back-and-forth match showcased both teams, who are currently leading their division, fighting tooth and nail for supremacy.

Jahmyr Gibbs was a standout performer for the Lions, rushing for 116 yards and scoring two of Detroit's three second-quarter touchdowns. His efforts didn’t stop there; Gibbs played a crucial role in helping quarterback Jared Goff maneuver the Lions 48 yards in four plays, putting them in range for the decisive field goal. This victory boosted the Lions’ record to 5-1.

Lions' quarterback Jared Goff continued his impressive form, completing 22 of 25 passes for 280 yards and two touchdowns. This marked his third consecutive game with a passer rating over 140, joining elite company such as Aaron Rodgers, Kurt Warner, and Roger Staubach in achieving this feat. The Lions demonstrated their dominance at the line of scrimmage, against a Viking defense that was second in the league for rushing average per play allowed.

In a dramatic twist, Ivan Pace Jr. capitalized on David Montgomery's fumble by returning it 35 yards for a touchdown, giving the Vikings a one-point lead with less than six minutes remaining. However, Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold failed to complete a critical 2-point conversion pass to Justin Jefferson. Darnold, who completed 22 of 27 passes for 259 yards, was also responsible for an interception in the second quarter when the Vikings were attempting to regain their rhythm.

The Vikings managed to advance to midfield during their final possession but ultimately could not get within range for their rookie kicker Will Reichard to attempt a game-winning field goal. This marked Detroit's fourth consecutive victory over Minnesota, a streak they have not achieved since the early 1960s.

Despite being listed as questionable due to a hamstring injury, Aaron Jones put up a strong performance for Minnesota, rushing for 93 yards and a touchdown. Justin Jefferson added 81 receiving yards and a touchdown, while Reichard contributed three field goals, including an impressive 57-yarder.

The Lions’ second-quarter performance was particularly notable, featuring three long scoring drives, each covering at least 69 yards. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson's strategic play-calling effectively neutralized the defensive maneuvers of Viking's defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

On the injury front, Detroit’s David Montgomery briefly limped off in the first quarter but managed to return before halftime. However, Lions' RG Kevin Zeitler was inactive due to a groin injury, and his replacement Kayode Awosika received several penalties. For the Vikings, Blake Cashman was notably absent from the lineup due to a toe injury.

The Lions are set to host the Tennessee Titans next Sunday, while the Vikings will travel to face the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night.