MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Vikings defense played almost flawlessly and running back Adrian Peterson had a big day in a 31-14 win over the San Diego Chargers.

Peterson, whose wife gave birth to his son early Sunday morning, turned in a huge performance -- rushing 20 times for 126 yards and two scores. The 30-year-old running back looked like his younger self on a 43-yard touchdown scamper in the third period to give Minnesota a 17-7 lead.

The Vikings were outgained by the Chargers 369 yards to 284, but Minnesota kept San Diego from many big plays while beating up on quarterback Philip Rivers.

Rivers turned the ball over twice and was sacked five times -- twice by Everson Griffen.

The defense's biggest play came when a Rivers pass was deflected into the air and picked off by outside linebacker Chad Greenway, who followed a convoy of purple jerseys 91 yards to a touchdown, making the score 31-7.

With the win, the Vikings improve to 2-1 on the season. Minnesota will travel to Denver to take on the Broncos next Sunday at 3:25 p.m.

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