The Vikings haven’t forgotten the sting of last season when the Lions walked into U.S. Bank Stadium and left as NFC North champions. A few weeks later, the Vikings watched the Lions celebrate that victory at Ford Field, and the bitterness still lingers.
“It doesn’t sit well with us,” said wide receiver Justin Jefferson. “It’s definitely something that we remember.”
That frustration is felt across the team.
“I’ve been waiting for this,” safety Josh Metellus added. “I’ve still got a bad taste in my mouth.”
As much as the Vikings aim to avenge last season’s loss and claim the NFC North title on Sunday at Ford Field, both teams are fully aware of the high stakes. The winner will secure the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs, while the loser will drop to the No. 5 spot.
This isn’t just another game. It’s a rare occasion, reminiscent of the 1994 showdown between the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants, when the final regular-season game determined the top playoff seed in the NFC. That game ended in overtime with the Cowboys clinching the No. 1 seed — and eventually, the Super Bowl title.
While the game is packed with drama and importance, the Vikings are determined to keep their focus on the Lions and the task at hand. They know that if they play their best, the rest will fall into place.
“We know exactly what we’re signing up for,” said head coach Kevin O’Connell. “We know they’re a damn good team, and we’re going to have to play really well to win.”
Injury Update:
The only Viking ruled out for the game is edge rusher Pat Jones II (knee). Linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill (illness) and cornerback Fabian Moreau (hip) are listed as questionable, while running back Aaron Jones (quad) has no injury designation.
