5 reasons the Vikings can still make the playoffs in 2023

Reason No. 5

The defense is better than last year

It will be unpopular to say after watching the Philadelphia Eagles run all over the Minnesota Vikings defense, but this unit is already much more effective than last year's team that couldn't stop anyone from racking up passing yards against the defense.

Through two weeks, the Vikings defense is eighth in passing yards allowed with only 340. Sadly, they are allowing the fourth most rushing yards at 332. This ranks them at 16 in terms of total yards allowed, putting them in the middle of the pack.

Not every opponent that Minnesota faces this year will be able to dominate the line of scrimmage the way the Eagles did in Week 2. That number should balance out a bit as the season goes on and hopefully the pass defense can stay aggressive and find success.

For these reasons, it is a bit soon to give up any hope that the Minnesota Vikings can find a way into the playoffs. Although fans have every right to be disappointed with an 0-2 start, it isn't too late for the team to bounce back.