Packers even NFC North race, beat Vikings 30-13

MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) - This was supposed to be the day that the Vikings were finally going to put the Packers in the rearview mirror. They were going to put their claim on the NFC North title, but instead, they were beaten soundly at TCF Bank Stadium in front of fans of the purple and gold and green and gold alike.

The Vikings entered Sunday’s game with plenty of credibility. They came in as the least-penalized team in the NFL but they took 8 penalties for over 100 yards. Adrian Peterson came in leading the NFL in rushing, but the Packers were able to control him for much of the day.

The Vikings took the lead when Teddy Bridgewater connected with Kyle Rudolph avoiding the tackle and staying on his feet for a 47-yard score, making it 6-3 Vikings. Then, Vikings take three straight penalties on third down and Aaron Rodgers makes them pay, zipping it in to Randall Cobb for a 10-yard touchdown and a score of 16-6 at the half.

The Vikings got within six when Peterson caps off a brilliant drive by Bridgewater, Peterson taking it the final six yards, and it was 19-13, that is, until Rodgers has answer. On third down, he rolls out to avoid the rush and makes an amazing throw to James Jones. A 27-yard strike, and it was 27-13 after the two-point conversion.

The Vikings drove again, but this time, Peterson coughed it up for his sixth fumble of the season (at a really bad time).

The Packers emerged victorious, and beat the Vikings 30-13.