Vikings’ First Loss Raises Questions About Murray as Colts Collapse

Minnesota’s unbeaten start ended in Detroit, where the Lions won 19-15. Gibbs amassed 168 yards as a runner and receiver and scored once, while Detroit quarterback Goff delivered the winning score to Jameson Williams. The Vikings’ offense again struggled to produce, leaving the defense on the field for more than 35 minutes as Detroit rushed for 230 yards.

Kyler Murray completed 17 of 29 passes for 210 yards, one touchdown and one interception, and was sacked three times. His touchdown came on a spectacular Justin Jefferson catch, but Murray also missed several throws and took too long to get the ball out. Jefferson finished with five catches for 33 yards and did not speak to the media afterward. Coach Kevin O’Connell said the team needed to keep shaping the offense around where Murray is most comfortable.

The loss renewed debate over whether Minnesota should stick with Murray or turn to backup Carson Wentz. Another assessment of the game argued the Vikings should give Murray more time, while warning that continued struggles could prompt a trade inquiry. The team’s running backs combined for 42 yards on 13 carries, and tight end T.J. Hockenson led the offense with four catches.

Indianapolis had a far more lopsided defeat, losing 42-7 to Jacksonville. Jacksonville’s quarterback Trevor Lawrence amassed 210 passing yards and three scoring passes, completing them on 14 attempts. The Colts’ first-half possessions included six punts, a fumble and a pick-six. After trading away Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner and dismissing general manager Chris Ballard, the team faces questions about coach Shane Steichen and the future of running back Jonathan Taylor. One view called for trading Taylor and moving on from Steichen as the Colts rebuild.