Vikings erase 12-point deficit to defeat Packers in NFL opener
Minnesota scored 29 unanswered points after Green Bay led 22–10 late in the third quarter, extending the Packers’ losing streak to six matches.
The Minnesota Vikings defeated the Green Bay Packers 39–22 in the 2026 NFL season opener after overturning a 12-point deficit late in the third quarter.
Green Bay led 22–10 with 5:09 remaining in the third quarter and had held the advantage through three quarters. Minnesota then scored 29 unanswered points to close out the match.
Packers quarterback Jordan Love completed 21 of 42 passes for 387 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. The Vikings recorded four sacks, all in the second half, and hit Love 15 times.
Andrew Van Ginkle’s unblocked sack and forced fumble set up a short Vikings touchdown during Minnesota’s late surge. Green Bay was also without guard Aaron Banks, who was inactive with knee tendinitis, while Donovan Jennings started at left guard.
Yahoo Sports analysis said the defeat continued a late-game pattern for Green Bay. Four of the Packers’ six consecutive losses, including the opener, came after the team held at least a nine-point second-half lead. The report also noted similar difficulties closing out matches during the 2025 season.
