This year’s NFC playoff picture is nothing sort of a Hollywood movie. With only two weeks remaining, there are still 3 teams fighting for the No.1 seed. And one of those contenders is the Minnesota Vikings, who probably have a real chance to win that position. Despite sitting at fifth in the overall NFC standings after 16 weeks. Minnesota could have the final laugh at the end of their regular season.
Well, the Vikings’ greatest misfortunate this season is that the Lions also play in the NFC North. And they could be wondering what would have happened if they hadn’t lost to them in week 7. That two-point defeat may prove to be costly in the end, as the Vikings and Lions will face off yet again in week 18. Yes, you might have already guessed it. That clash in Detroit will prove to be crucial if the Lions and Vikings win their games next week.
As for the Vikings, their resurgence under Sam Darnold doesn’t seem to be slowing down. He continues to make a name for himself in Minnesota and form a strong connection with his receivers. Both Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are flying with Darnold at the center. Just take a look at this week’s hard-fought victory on the road to Seattle. Addison scored the game’s first TD, while Jefferson handled the rest. His two TDs in respective halves helped the Vikings record their 13th win of the season.
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Besides their offense, the Vikings are equally impressive on their defense. Their Purple Haze has forced 30 turnovers to date, which shows the level of consistency they have on both sides of the gridiron. Now, their only concern for now would be yet another NFC North franchise. Next week, they welcome the Cheeseheads at home. And make no mistake, the Packers wouldn’t give them an easy pass to the No.1 NFC seed.
Well, there goes the Vikings’ chances to secure the No.1 seed in their conference. Perhaps a look at the Lions and Eagles would give you a better insight into what’s gonna happen in a few weeks.
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The Eagles’ loss to the Commanders makes the NFC’s playoff race more intriguing
Going into Washington, the Eagles had the perfect road plan to the postseason. Win on the road and secure the NFC West. Then, wait for others to slip or win their remaining games. And there you go, the No.1 seed goes to Philly. However, nothing like that happened; instead, what took place in Washington ended up embarrassing the Phillies. In the first quarter of the game, the Eagles lost their star QB Jalen Hurts to a concussion. Although he tried to return, the referees didn’t allow it, and shortly after, he was ruled out.
Well, the Eagles just couldn’t do it without Hurts, as they failed to hold their lead multiple times. And it came back to haunt them as the Commanders came back in their last drive to win 36-33. Now, their result has Detroit in pole position to eliminate them from NFC No.1 seed contention. Only a win over the 49ers will throw Jalen Hurts’ Eagles out of the race. However, the Detroit team still has the Vikings to worry about whom they will face at home in week 18.
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That clash will decide who will earn a home-field advantage and a first-round bye for their postseason.
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