Here's how the Vikings could land the NFC's No. 1 seed in the NFL playoffs
MINNEAPOLIS — There has perhaps been no more surprising team in the NFL this season than the Minnesota Vikings.
With the departure of Kirk Cousins, the arrival of Sam Darnold, an overhaul of the defense and a loaded division, many expected this to be a rebuilding year for Minnesota. Instead, the Vikings are 14-2 and firmly in the race for the NFC's No. 1 overall seed.
The Detroit Lions, also 14-2, currently lead the NFC North and hold the No. 1 seed, thanks to a Week 7 victory over the Vikings.
So, how can the Vikings come out on top, earning a bye and home-field advantage? It's fairly straightforward, actually.
If the Vikings win their Week 18 game against the Lions, they win the NFC North and earn the No. 1 seed. In this scenario, the Vikings would finish 15-2 and necessarily have a better record than the Lions, who would finish 14-3.
Beating the Lions at Ford Field is a tough row to hoe, though. The Lions already beat the Vikings once this year, at U.S Bank Stadium in Week 7. Dan Campbell's team has the No. 1 scoring offense and No. 7 scoring defense. Though injuries have absolutely depredated the Lions' defense, they're still a contender in the NFC. Still, the Vikings offense should be able to put up points, and if the defense can get a stop or two against Jared Goff, a division-sealing win on the Lions' home turf is not out of reach.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell's team is probably thrilled that they control their own destiny this late in the season. It's already been a season for the ages for the Vikings. Just how memorable it will be remains to be seen.
