Bills grind out win over Vikings in a low-scoring affair
Josh Allen tied Peyton Manning's 10-year touchdown record while Buffalo overcame a struggling Minnesota offense.
By Priya Marino ·
Buffalo Bills fans in Minneapolis watched their team rely on patience rather than power to secure a 23-6 victory over the Vikings on Monday night. The game lacked the high-octane scoring that typically defines the Bills season, but the result was enough to improve their record to 7-1 and extend their winning streak.
James Cook anchored the offensive effort with 31 carries for 107 yards and a late touchdown. His performance was part of a gritty ground game that moved the chains when passing lanes were tight. Coach Joe Brady noted the team controlled the ball for 42 minutes and 32 seconds, a testament to their ability to dictate the tempo. "There was no panic early in the game when things weren't going our way," Brady said.
Josh Allen tied Peyton Manning for the most regular-season touchdowns in NFL history over a player's first 10 years. Allen now has 322 total touchdowns, combining 232 passing, 88 rushing, and two receiving. He completed 21 of 31 passes for 234 yards and one interception. The milestone puts him in rare company as he approaches the end of his ninth season.
The Vikings struggled to find their footing on offense, finishing with just 178 total yards. Carson Wentz started in place of injured Kyler Murray and completed 8 of 25 passes for 81 yards. He also threw three interceptions, including one backward pass that led to a fumble near midfield. Max Brosmer replaced Wentz in the fourth quarter after the starter completed only one of eight passes in the second half.
Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell took responsibility for the offensive woes, citing a lack of running plays. Running backs Jordan Mason and Aaron Jones combined for just 11 carries. "Put tonight 100% on me. It's not about any one particular player," O'Connell said. He added that the team must improve offensively at a rapid pace. Wide receiver Justin Jefferson had three catches for 58 yards on 11 targets.
Defensive coordinator Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams each picked off a pass to seal the win. Tyler Bass kicked three field goals, extending his franchise-record streak to 24 consecutive makes. The Bills matched their best start to a season since 1993. Both teams will play Sunday, with Buffalo visiting the New York Jets and Minnesota heading to Green Bay.
