Vikings TE Josh Oliver scores on the first drive against the Rams

INGLEWOOD, Calif. – The Minnesota Vikings continued their first-quarter mastery Thursday night at SoFi Stadium. They gained 70 yards in eight plays on the first possession of their game against the Los Angeles Rams and never faced a third down before quarterback Sam Darnold capped the drive with a five-yard touchdown pass to Josh Oliver.

TD Josh Oliver! Sam Darnold and them @Vikings Offensive make quick work of the first drive 👏#MINvsLAR on Prime Video
Will continue to stream #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/j5PtJLEwg8

– NFL (@NFL) October 25, 2024

The result was quite predictable. The Vikings had outscored their opponents 58-3 in the first quarter of that game, while the Rams were outscored 35-6. Oliver's touchdown came in the Vikings' final game without starting tight end TJ Hockenson, who is expected to be added to the Vikings' 53-man roster on Friday after a nine-month recovery from right knee surgery.

Darnold, playing in his hometown, completed all four of his passes on the drive, including three for 44 yards to receiver Justin Jefferson.