Jake Bates leads the Lions to the NFC North lead with a 31-29 lead over the Vikings

The Lions recovered from an initial double-digit deficit and stormed again after a fumble from six to beat the Minnesota Vikings 31-29 at US Bank Stadium and take first place in the NFC North, the NFL's best division.

Kicker Jake Bates remained perfect with the boot Victory on the 44-yard field goal 15 seconds left. Bates is 10 out of 10 this season after signing with the Michigan Panthers following a standout spring season in the United Football League.

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Vikings safety Josh Metellus hit the ball out of David Montgomery in the fourth quarter, resulting in a 36-yard scoop-and-score by Ivan Pace Jr. and a 29-28 Vikings lead with 5:50 to play after the 2-point conversion was stopped.

But after the offense stalled again, the defense was stopped and the offense went for the win.