Vikings punish first-place Texans, 23-6 on road

HOUSTON – The Minnesota Vikings scored an impressive road victory over the AFC-leading Houston Texans on Sunday, winning 23-6.

Adrian Peterson, continuing his pursuit of Eric Dickerson’s all-time single-season rushing record, had a solid but not spectacular day, gaining 86 yards.  Peterson will need over 200 next week at home against Green Bay in the season finale to catch Dickerson.  He has 1,898 this season and needs 208 yards to set a new record.

The Vikings improved to 9-6 and are assured of a winning season.  They can make the playoffs with a win against the rival Packers next week.

Quarterback Christian Ponder had a solid game, leading the Vikings on an opening-possession playoff drive.  He rushed for 48 yards and threw a touchdown pass.

The Texans fell to 12-3 but can still secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with a win next week on the road at Indianapolis.