Overheard from players, coaches after Lions top Vikings

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Free Press sports writers Dave Birkett and Jeff Seidel analyze the Lions" 22-16 overtime victory over the Vikings on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2016. Video by Dave Birkett, DFP.

Matt Asiata of the Minnesota Vikings is tackled by Josh Bynes of the Detroit Lions during the first quarter Nov. 6, 2016 at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.(Photo: Adam Bettcher, Getty Images)

What coaches and players said Sunday after the Lions defeated the Vikings in overtimein Minnesota.

Lions head coach Jim Caldwell, on this team win Yeah, I think this is probably the definition of one, because of the fact that we had so many contributions from every phase Sam [Martin] punted the ball extremely well. [Matt] Prater was outstanding, and we did a great job in that area. And they covered the kickoff really well Defensively, it was a pretty outstanding game. But all in all, just in terms of our guys hanging in there when things go tough, theyve done well. The offense, when you needed them to move it down and get into position to score, they were able to do so. They did it with poise and did it with a little bit of flair.

Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer, on his teams third straight loss For the first time in three weeks this team really fought like I expect them to fight. Well continue to do these kind of things and well win football games.

Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, on the play of the Lions offensive line They did a great job. I was telling them after the game it might be the cleanest I have been in a game playing these guys, especially at their place. They were getting off the ball great but the offensive line was doing a great job.

Lions kicker Matt Prater, on the pressure of kicking a last-second, game-tying kick Im confident. More than likely Im not worried about missing it short. I just make kicks, I dont try to overthink it with the guys up front snapping and holding. I expect to make every kick. I dont over analyze it or think too much. I just kick it and hope it goes straight.

Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford, on the difference with new offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur This week I think the game plan was fairly set in place by the time Pat took over. But, itll be interesting to see how we go moving forward and how things will change. I thought Pat did a good job today just keeping it relatively simple. Getting the ball out quick, getting it to our guys in space and then trying to let them create on the perimeter.

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Source: http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/11/06/lions-overheard-vikings/93410008/