The New England Patriots ground out a hard-fought 20-12 preseason victory over the Minnesota Vikings Saturday afternoon, leaning on a relentless defensive effort and clutch special teams plays to seal the win. The Patriots' defense set the tone early, harassing Minnesota quarterbacks with four sacks and two interceptions, including a key pick by safety Alex Austin that snuffed out a Vikings scoring threat. Offensively, New England's passing attack was efficient but unspectacular, with Joshua Dobbs completing 11 of 16 attempts for 106 yards and a touchdown, while rookie wideout Efton Chism III exploded for 71 yards and a score on six receptions, including a 33-yard highlight grab. The Vikings' red-zone woes—going 0-for-4 in scoring opportunities—proved costly, as their only touchdowns came on a pair of late field goals and a garbage-time drive.

Minnesota's offense sputtered despite flashes from receiver Tim Jones (68 yards) and return specialist Myles Price (81-yard kick return), as penalties (10 for 64 yards) and inconsistent quarterback play doomed their chances. Patriots rookie Jeremiah Webb delivered the dagger with a 59-yard punt return that flipped field position in the third quarter, while New England's ball-control offense dominated time of possession (34:10 to 25:50). The win gives the Patriots momentum heading into their final preseason tune-up, while the Vikings will look to clean up their red-zone execution before the regular season.