Adrian Peterson scored three touchdowns in a 28-point first quarter — two of them within a span of 23 seconds — and the Minnesota Vikings avoided their first 0-5 start since 1962 with a 34-10 win over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday at the Metrodome.

The Vikings (1-4) still didn't find much success in their lackluster passing game, which ranked 31st in the league entering the game, but they didn't need to.

Peterson rushed for a season-high 122 yards on 29 carries and matched a career high with the three rushing touchdowns. Quarterback Donovan McNabb added a rushing score.

Minnesota was outscored 7-6 in the second half and has been outscored 87-22 after halftime this season, but it didn't matter.

The Cardinals (1-4) were hurt by three turnovers, two of which came in the first quarter and led to Minnesota touchdowns. The Vikings started all four of their touchdown drives inside the Arizona 40-yard line.

The Cardinals, who have lost four straight, dropped to 0-7 all-time at Minnesota.