Getty ImagesTrailing 13-6, the Bucs took the second-half kickoff and drove 80 yards in 11 plays to tie the score on Askew’s first career TD. Garcia overcame holding penalties on consecutive plays with a 31-yard completion to Jerramy Stevens on second-and-25 from the Vikings 32.
Brooks made one of the biggest defensive plays of the game, breaking up a deep pass intended for Peterson on fourth-and-1 from the Vikings 49, on Minnesota’s next possession. The speedy running back might have turned it into a game-changing touchdown if Brooks hadn’t made the play.
“This is a great accomplishment by these guys, and we’re going to see more top (running backs) down the stretch,” Gruden said.
Frerotte completed 14 of 20 passes for 138 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. He was sacked five times.
The Bucs played most of the game without leading rusher Earnest Graham, slowed by knee and ankle injuries. Warrick Dunn gained 53 yards on 20 carries, and with Garcia scrambling for 21 yards on six attempts, Tampa Bay finished with 108 yards on the ground.
“These type of games definitely wear on you,” Garcia said. “I can’t play like this every single weekend, but there were opportunities for me to use my legs today.”
Notes: It was the first meeting since 2005 between the former NFC Central rivals. The Bucs have won eight of the last nine played in Tampa. ... Graham limped off after his only carry, a 3-yard gain.
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