The end of the 2023 NFL season is upon us and Sunday afternoon could spell the end of the Minnesota Vikings season. They only have a 3% chance to make the playoffs after losing their last three games and six of their last seven.
The Vikings had a chance to control their own destiny on multiple occasions but couldn’t make it happen for a myriad of reasons. With the final game coming against a Detroit Lions team that is still raging after feeling screwed against the Dallas Cowboys, their road to the playoffs has become that much more difficult.
Ahead of Sunday’s game, our staff previewed and predicted the NFC North matchup.
Managing editor Tyler Forness
Record: 9-7
The final game of the regular season is a must-win for the Vikings. Not only do they need to beat the Lions at Ford Field, the Vikings need at least three other results to go their way. It’s not looking great for them, especially with six players out, including Byron Murphy Jr., Mekhi Blackmon and Brian O’Neill. It won’t be easy, as the Lions are a very motivated football team after feeling “screwed over” by the referees last Saturday night. It’s a tough game regardless of the injuries and circumstances and this will officially end the Vikings season. Despite being able to figure things out at multiple turns this season, everything catches up to them.
Lions 31, Vikings 20
Columnist Judd Zulgad
Record: 7-9
The Vikings need to beat Detroit on Sunday and then have several things fall their way to make the playoffs. The Lions, meanwhile, are coming off a controversial loss in Dallas and still could move into the second seed in the NFC with a win and a Dallas loss in Washington. So don’t look for the Lions to lift their starters, or let off the gas pedal in this one.
Lions 28, Vikings 17
Columnist Saivion Mixson
Record: 8-8
One thing about a Dan Campbell-led team is that they are going to hit you with everything they have, regardless of circumstance. The question becomes is Minnesota able to withstand these blows and retaliate with counterpunches of their own? Do they have enough left in the tank to stand toe-to-toe with one of the top teams in the NFC this season with all of the questions at quarterback and the recent drop-off at the defensive end? I think there’s too much to overcome and not enough time to salvage it.
Lions 30, Vikings 20
Columnist Chris Spooner
Record: 8-4
Minnesota still isn’t mathematically eliminated from playoff contention. They have plenty to play for coming into the final week of the season. The Lions, on the other hand, have clinched their first division title in 30 years, and don’t have much to play for (there is an outside shot they can grab the #2 seed, but it’s about as unlikely as Minnesota’s playoff chances). Minnesota has an opportunity to get the sour taste of last week out of their mouth and finish the season on a high note – and possibly extend it if things break their way. If that can’t motivate them, nothing will.
Minnesota 28, Lions 23
