As detailed in our dispatch from Detroit, the Vikings’ path to the playoffs is simple and straightforward.
“Win and in. I’m O.K. with that,” head coach Mike Zimmer said Sunday afternoon following the 27-9 win against the Lions.
What if the Vikings lose to the Bears next Sunday afternoon?
There’s still a chance.
At a possible 8-7-1, the Vikings can still earn the NFC’s No. 6 seed with an Eagles loss or tie against the Washington Redskins.
With the Rams and Bears still wrestling over the No. 2 spot and a first-round bye, the NFL moved a handful of games to the afternoon spots to guarantee Chicago and L.