MINNEAPOLIS -- Mistakes and general sloppiness caused the Vikings to lose their fourth game of the year in a frustrating 17-3 loss to the Detroit Lions.

Detroit took their opening possession down the field quickly, taking a 7-0 lead after a touchdown pass from Matthew Stafford to running back Theo Riddick.

The Vikings looked to even the score as they drove deep into Lions territory, but rookie quarterback Teddy Bridgewater 's ill-advised pass was picked off in the endzone by Lions safety Glover Quin Jr.

Bridgewater and the rest of the offense seemed to be a little bit off all game long, as penalties, missed throws and dropped passes plagued purple possessions.

After missing the last game with an ankle injury, Bridgewater's return was rough.

The rookie was sacked eight times and threw three interceptions - two being tipped into the air by the intended receiver.

Detroit's defense came into the game ranked #1 in the league and played like it, knifing through the Vikings offensive line seemingly all game long.

The Vikings defense played fairly well under the circumstances - registering four sacks and only allowing 255 total yards to the Lions, who were playing without star playmakers Calvin Johnson and Reggie Bush.

With the defeat, the Vikings drop to 2-4 on the season and will travel to Buffalo next Sunday to take on the Bills.

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