Vikings crush Lions’ playoff chances on Christmas Day, force 6 turnovers
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The Detroit Lions were hoping for a gift from the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas. Instead, they got a lump of coal and something else.
The Vikings were instrumental with an upset victory over their NFC North rival, 23-10.
Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) throws under pressure from Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith (22) during the second half Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Bruce Kluckhohn)
Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison didn’t touch the ball until the fourth quarter and made the biggest play of the night. He received a pass from quarterback Max Brosmer, found space on the right side of the line of scrimmage and broke through the Swiss Lions defense.
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The 66-yard touchdown run extended the Vikings’ lead to 10 points. On the Lions’ next drive, Jared Goff committed the team’s sixth turnover of the night. The Lions had four fumbles and two interceptions. Goff was responsible for five of them. Jahmyr Gibbs also fumbled.
A win for Detroit would have kept its playoff hopes alive for at least another two days, but the loss completely sinks the team’s dreams after being in the postseason the past two years and finishing the 2024 season with a 15-2 record.
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Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison (3) celebrates with his teammates after scoring a touchdown during the second half against the Detroit Lions on Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Since their Week 8 bye, the Lions have looked a little lost. Detroit has lost six of its last nine games. The team only had wins against NFC East teams: the New York Giants, Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys. They needed overtime to beat the Giants.
Detroit falls to 8-8 on the season with the loss.
Goff completed 18 of 29 passes for 197 yards and a touchdown pass. He was fired five times. Amon-Ra St. Brown led the Lions with eight receptions for 68 yards. Isaac TeSlaa had three receptions for 49 yards and a touchdown reception.
Brosmer started the game in place of an injured JJ McCarthy. He completed 9 of 16 for 51 yards. Justin Jefferson had four receptions for 30 yards. Aaron Jones added a rushing touchdown.
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The victory was the fourth in a row for the Vikings. They are 8-8 and the Green Bay Packers remain on their schedule.
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Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor at News Digital.