What is the Vikings’ most probable playoff scenario after 15 weeks?
By Adam Patrick
No. 3 seed
Chance: 13 percent
In order for the Vikings to enter the playoffs as the third seed in the NFC, they would need to win their division. Unfortunately, winning the NFC North isn’t as simple as just defeating the Packers next week for Minnesota.
In addition to needing victories in their final two games, the Vikings also need Green Bay to fall in their season finale to the Detroit Lions. With the Lions currently rolling with a rookie backup quarterback only having three wins this season, this is an incredibly tall task for Minnesota to ask of their fellow divisional member.
No. 2 seed
Chance: 5.1 percent
In order to capture a first-round bye in this year’s playoffs, the Vikings would not only still need help from lowly Detroit to win the NFC North, but they would also need help from some other teams that could end up missing the postseason.
If Minnesota wins their division and the New Orleans Saints either lose their next two games or drop their season finale to the Carolina Panthers, then the Vikings will begin the playoffs as the No. 2 seed in the NFC.