Dec 9, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) carries the ball during the first quarter against the Chicago Bears at the Metrodome. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
The Minnesota Vikings came out of nowhere in 2012, as running back Adrian Peterson played on a bionic leg and took the league by storm. Not only did Peterson almost break the single-season rushing record, but he lead the Vikes to an improbable 10-6 record and a playoff appearance. An arm injury to quarterback Christian Ponder derailed what was shaping up to be one heck of a magical season, but some solid adjustments across the board could still have Minnesota in the running late in 2013.
Their ultimate success likely hinges on what they can accomplish in their own division, though, as it took a week 17 victory over the Packers just to get them into post-season play.
Divisional Home Games
(10/27) vs. Green Bay Packers | Avg: $218 | Get-in: $79
The team that ousted them from the playoffs tries to stab them in the back again in late October, in a battle that comes in at a whopping 51% more than Minnesota’s season average ($144). Minnesota has a better shot at taking the matchup in Minnesota than in Green Bay, but it certainly won’t be easy.
(12/1) vs. Chicago Bears | Avg: $154 | Get-in: $44
Even the Bears coming to town won’t jack up Minnesota’s reasonable home game ticket prices (at least not yet), as this one comes in at just 7% above the home average. It’s not for a lack of star power or meaningfulness, either, as December showdowns always matter and Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall alone are reason enough to take in this game.
(12/29) vs. Detroit Lions | Avg: $146 | Get-in: $37
The cheapest Vikings divisional home game of the year could end up easily being their best. Not only do these two start the season facing each other, but they end it that way, too. This one should rise in price due to potential playoff implications, but at the moment is a ridiculous bargain die hard Minnesota fans need to take advantage of, pronto.
Divisional Road Games
(9/8) @ Detroit Lions | Avg: $118 | Get-in: $32
While their season-ending meeting will likely get much more hype, you still won’t have any luck talking down a season opener, either. The Lions and Vikes kickoff the 2013 season in style with a match up that should offer up a lot of points and big plays.
(9/15) @ Chicago Bears | Avg: $438 | Get-in: $135
Minnesota’s trip to Chicago isn’t positive to end with a win and it’s going to yield a hefty price tag for all involved. It’ll still be worth it due to it being such a storied rivalry and the fact that Adrian Peterson is in it.
(11/24) @ Green Bay Packers | Avg: $285 | Get-in: $152
Minnesota’s final road divisional game comes in late November when they travel to Green Bay. The Vikes whiffed on their last two outings (including the playoffs) at Lambeau, but Adrian Peterson still has the Packers’ number. If Peterson brings his A game, the $285 ticket price will be more than worth it for loyal Vikings fans.
For more NFC North info, check out this article on Forbes.com breaking down NFC North tickets prices.