It isn't a good sign when two important wins for the Vikings this season have been two- and four-point victories against a winless team. Nonetheless, the Viks avoided the trap game and are 7-2 in their last nine games to move to 8-5 and have a one-game lead over Da Bears in the NFC North.
The Purple is starting to put things together with three straight wins, two of them being on the road. Not to sound like a pessimist but how can Minnesota choke this season? Their remaining schedule is at Arizona (8-5), then hosting Atlanta (8-5) and the NFC-leading New York Giants (11-2). Da Bears host New Orleans (7-6), Green Bay (5-8) and then travel to Houston (6-7). Advantage to the Bears.
However, you have to seen the blessing in disguise. If Minnesota makes the playoffs, they will have to defeat some tough opponents down the stretch in games that matter. If they come out of this ahead, they will host a first-round game at the Dome where they are 5-1 this season.
Adrian Peterson has rushed for 313 yards in the three win but also put the ball on the ground three times against the Lions (none of them lost). He and Taylor will be important to whoever is playing under center. But I think the emergence of Berrian and Shiancoe has helped make those running lanes bigger and given our QB help on third and five or longer. The bulk of the work will be on the backs from here on out, but the load was made lighter by having two, dare I say, dependable targets.
Keywords: Adrian Peterson, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, NFC North, playoffs
