Jahmyr Gibbs recorded his 14th rushing touchdown of the season, giving the Lions an early 7-0 advantage.
After both the Lions and Vikings punted on their opening drives in a game anticipated to showcase plenty of offense, Detroit marched 78 yards in nine plays on its second possession.
Gibbs capped the drive with a 25-yard touchdown run after managing only 1 yard on his first six carries. He also contributed with one reception for 6 yards.
The Lions faced a critical fourth down during the drive, with Jameson Williams securing a 14-yard pass from Jared Goff on fourth-and-5 from the Minnesota 39.
Goff is off to a strong start, completing 7 of 8 passes for 68 yards.