Minneapolis, MN (Sports Network) - Adrian Peterson ran for 153 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries behind a strong defensive performance by the Minnesota defense, as the Vikings defeated the Arizona Cardinals, 21-14, at Mall of America Field on Sunday.
John Skelton threw a touchdown pass to Andre Roberts with less than two minutes remaining in the game, but Arizona (4-3) could not recover the onside kick, sealing the victory for Minnesota.
Harrison Smith returned an interception for a touchdown and Minnesota (5-2) registered seven sacks, including three by Brian Robison, to overcome a disappointing performance by Christian Ponder, who threw for just four yards in the second half. He completed 8-of-17 passes for the day with two interceptions, but threw a touchdown in the first half for the Vikings, who will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday night.
Despite a career rushing day from LaRod Stephens-Howling, who ran for 104 yards and a touchdown, the Cardinals struggled to get into an offensive rhythm, converting on third down just 5-of-14 times.
Skelton, who got the start for the injured Kevin Kolb, completed 25-of-36 throws for 262 yards and an interception for Arizona, which lost its third straight game after winning its first four.
Game Notes
