Vikings win second since death of Stringer, 24-10

Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Vikings can only hope their grief over the loss of Korey Stringer continues to bring them together.

The Vikings won their second exhibition game since Stringer's death, beating the Pittsburgh Steelers, 24-10, last night.

The Minnesota defense, which surrendered 41 points to the New York Giants in last season's NFC championship game, came up big. Three of its five turnovers led to points, including a 10-point flurry late in the half and Lamanzer Williams' 21-yard fumble return in the final minute.

"The big satisfaction is when the offense turns that turnover into points," said linebacker Ed McDaniel, whose interception led to a touchdown.

A moment of silence for Stringer was held before the game, the Vikings' first at the Metrodome since the offensive lineman died from heatstroke Aug. 1. Quarterback Daunte Culpepper said it was hard to run out of the tunnel without him.

"He's with us even though he is not with us physically," Culpepper said. "He is with us in our minds and in our hearts."

The Vikings forced two turnovers by Kordell Stewart late in the first half that led to a touchdown and a field goal for a 17-7 halftime lead.

"You're never going to be perfect," Stewart said.

On the first play after McDaniel intercepted a pass by Stewart, Randy Moss made an acrobatic 59-yard catch of a long pass from Culpepper.

Moss, covered by cornerback Dewayne Washington, caught the ball over his right shoulder and juggled it to his left hand before going out of bounds. Moss' catch set up his own 3-yard TD reception with 1:55 left in the first half.

Talance Sawyer sacked Stewart with 49 seconds left in the half, forcing a fumble recovered by Vikings defensive end Lance Johnstone. Gary Anderson kicked a 39-yard field goal with five seconds remaining.