The Minnesota Vikings had the opportunity to play spoiler to the Detroit Lions on Christmas Day. Even though the purple and gold were already eliminated from postseason play, a win against their division opponent would ensure they would miss the playoffs as well.
The odds seemed stacked against the Vikings. Injuries to starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy and multiple members of the offensive line made headlines, while the toughness of Brian Flores' defense was overlooked.
It took six takeaways, multiple long field goals, and one huge run play to put the Lions away. The final score of the Netflix broadcast was 23-10, and viewers were treated to a hugely entertaining halftime show featuring Snoop Dogg and friends.
It is obvious that the defense of the Minnesota Vikings was the highlight of this game, but which players had a huge impact on the outcome of this game in a positive or negative way?
Which Minnesota Vikings players were the winners and losers from their Week 17 win over the Detroit Lions?
Vikings winner No. 1: Harrison Smith, safety
This is likely to be Harrison Smith's last season in the NFL, but the Minnesota Vikings' veteran safety looked like a kid playing out there on Thursday. He only had three tackles in the game, but made a huge impact by defending three passes, one of which was a momentum-changing interception that helped to alter the tone of the game.
Vikings loser No. 1: Max Brosmer, quarterback
To his credit, Max Brosmer kept the ball secure. He didn't throw an interception. He had one fumble that he got back on top of. But he also threw for only 51 yards without a touchdown while being sacked seven times for a loss of 48 yards. He might be young, but he can't be trusted in the future to be a QB2 in the NFL.
Vikings winner No. 2: Andrew Van Ginkel, edge
The impact that edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel makes is massive for the Vikings. He was all over the field on Christmas Day, registering five tackles, recovering two fumbles, earning 1.5 sacks, and getting two hits on Lions quarterback Jared Goff.
Vikings loser No. 2: Jalen Nailor, wide receiver
He has been excellent this season, but Jalen Nailor couldn't contribute positively against Detroit. He was flagged for a penalty, failed to haul in his single target in the game, and was part of a struggling offensive unit that had a tough time moving the chains.
Vikings winner No. 3: Blake Cashman, linebacker
Speaking of players who were all over the field, linebacker Blake Cashman is a big reason the Minnesota Vikings were able to contain Detroit's rushing attack. The Lions only averaged 2.3 yards per carry, and a lot of that was Cashman getting a quick reaction and tackling the ball carrier early. He led the team with 17 tackles (six solo), including one sack.