3 reasons the Vikings will go over their projected win total in 2023

The NFC North is wide open

In a division like the NFC North, the Vikings have an opportunity to get roughly half of their projected wins. The toughest rival in the division appears to be the Lions, who are an up-and-coming playoff contender and are playing great football.

But, the Bears and Packers both remain a mystery and could be very beatable. Will Justin Fields be the guy all Bears fans are hoping he can be? How about Jordan Love in Green Bay? Let's say the Vikings can win four of their six divisional games this coming season, finishing 4-2 in the NFC North. That seems not only possible, but reasonable. At that point, all they need to do is go 5-6 in their remaining games.

That doesn't exactly sound inspiring, though, does it? Not only does it sound less than ideal, but it doesn't seem plausible. This Vikings team should be able to win at least 10 games this coming season.

Regression is understandable, and it seems likely. However, regressing 4.5 games from a year ago is just plain hilarity. The Vikings are better than an 8.5-win team, period, and the mediocre NFC North is going to help them surpass that total.