Vikings lose to Lions, fall from NFC lead in Week 8

The Minnesota Vikings lost their first game of the season to the Detroit Lions on November 1, 2026, which dropped them from the top spot in the NFC playoff standings. The Vikings now have an overall record of 6-1, tied with the San Francisco 49ers who hold the tiebreaker based on strength of victory. Following Week 8, the 49ers lead the NFC with six wins, while the Lions improve their record to 5-2. The Vikings' victories this season have come against opponents with lower overall winning percentages compared to those defeated by the 49ers, impacting their playoff positioning. After this loss, the Vikings will look to rebound in their next matchup as the playoffs approach.

• 12:19 AMYahoo Sports — Vikings lose both one game and the NFC lead