Matthew Stafford's 25-yard TD pass gives the Rams a 21-17 lead in the third quarter

The Rams took their first lead late in the third quarter of Thursday's game against the Vikings.

After Minnesota took a 17-14 lead on a 23-yard field goal by Will Reichard, Los Angeles quarterback Matthew Stafford hit Demarcus Robinson for a 25-yard touchdown to make it 21-17.

Stafford was intercepted on the Rams' first possession of the third quarter, ending what appeared to be a promising push into opposing territory. Stafford looked for receiver Demarcus Robinson on the left side. But the pass was too long and was intercepted by cornerback Byron Murphy, who came in with both feet on the sideline.

On the ensuing drive, Justin Jefferson put the Vikings in scoring position with an outstanding catch down the left sideline for a 27-yard gain – he flipped the pass on his shoulder and, after initially juggling the ball, clearly brought several feet downfield.

But with an incomplete pass from Darnold to Jefferson on third-and-3, Minnesota settled for a 23-yard field goal to take a 17-14 lead with 6:22 left in the third.

The Rams didn't face a third down on their next possession en route to the touchdown. Stafford hit Tutu Atwell for an 18-yard gain, pushing the Rams into Vikings territory. Then, after a false start, Stafford erased a second-and-15 with a dart over the middle to Puka Nacua, bringing the Rams to the Minnesota 27-yard line.

One play later, Stafford connected with Robinson deep down the left sideline for the score.

Stafford is now 19 of 28 for 199 yards with three touchdowns and one interception.