The Minnesota Vikings saw their perfect start to the 2026 season come to an end on Sunday, falling 19-15 to the Detroit Lions. This defeat marks the first loss for Minnesota, leaving them with a 6-1 record and ending the final unbeaten run in the NFL.

How did the Vikings lose their unbeaten record?

The Vikings entered the matchup as the league's last undefeated team, bolstered by a defense that allowed only 12.3 points per game. However, the Lions' ground game proved too difficult to contain. Jahmyr Gibbs led the charge for Detroit, totaling 168 yards from scrimmage.

Read also Vikings remain the NFL's only undefeated team after Week 7

While Minnesota briefly regained the lead in the fourth quarter through a touchdown pass from Kyler Murray to T.J. Hockenson, the Lions responded quickly. Jared Goff threw a decisive seven-yard touchdown to Jameson Williams with just over four minutes remaining to secure the win for Detroit.

Other major NFL upsets

While the Vikings fell, the Denver Broncos climbed to the top of the AFC West by defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 28-24. The game featured a dramatic comeback as Broncos quarterback Bo Nix led his team from a double-digit deficit. The victory was sealed when Malcolm Roach sacked Patrick Mahomes on the final play of the game.

Other notable results from the weekend include:

  • The Buffalo Bills defeated the Baltimore Ravens 36-10, led by Josh Allen's rushing and passing.
  • The Los Angeles Rams beat the Los Angeles Chargers 24-9.
  • The Jacksonville Jaguars dominated the Indianapolis Colts with a 42-7 win.

What is next for these teams?

Despite the loss, the Vikings remain in first place in the NFC North. However, they must address offensive inconsistencies, as the team has struggled with scoring averages throughout the season. For the Lions, the win marks their third consecutive victory.

In Baltimore, the Ravens face significant uncertainty following the loss of quarterback Lamar Jackson, who sustained a thumb injury that may require surgery. The team was forced to rely on undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano after backup Tyler Huntley also exited with an injury.