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Vikings Grind Out Win Over Dolphins as Miami's Frustrations Mount

The Minnesota Vikings remained undefeated on Sunday, October 4, 2026, edging the Miami Dolphins 15-10 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.

In an ugly Week 4 contest where neither side produced free-flowing offense, Minnesota managed to secure the result despite missing star wide receiver Justin Jefferson from the lineup. For Miami, the afternoon ended in their fourth consecutive defeat, making it their toughest loss of the year to date.

Penalty troubles stall Miami in a defensive slog

The Dolphins dragged Minnesota deep into the fourth quarter, turning the matchup into a brutal defensive contest. However, self-inflicted wounds doomed the visitors.

Miami's defensive unit battled through numerous penalties, and the overall team effort was characterized as penalty-riddled. Even with their defense preventing touchdowns, Miami failed to score a touchdown themselves, leaving them five points shy at the final whistle.

Ollie Gordon II provides Miami's primary bright spot

Miami did find positive traction on the ground through running back Ollie Gordon II. Delivering a breakout rushing performance, Gordon provided the Dolphins with their most consistent offensive threat on an otherwise frustrating afternoon.

His emergence kept Miami within striking distance well into the final quarter before Minnesota ultimately sealed the outcome.

Undefeated Vikings win without style points

Minnesota proved that maintaining an unblemished record does not always require pretty football. Playing without Jefferson on the field, the Vikings survived a messy, low-scoring grind at home.

While far from an explosive showing, Minnesota did enough in critical moments to hold off Miami's late push and emerge with their perfect record intact.

The loss marks a difficult four-game start for Miami's leadership, as general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and coach Jeff Hafley contend with four defeats in as many games to begin their tenure. While the Dolphins search for answers following their fourth straight setback, Minnesota moves forward unblemished, having navigated a tough defensive test on their home turf.

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