The Vikings game on Sunday against the Detroit Lions isn't so much must-win as can't-lose.
A loss would effectively end the competitive portion of a season and, perhaps, eradicate an entire organization.
Lose to the Lions on Sunday, and the Vikings will or should be on their way to a new general manager, coach, coaching staff and quarterback.
The Vikings are 1-3. A loss to the Lions would leave them 1-4 entering a difficult and perhaps season-defining six-game stretch against contenders.
If this sounds like too much emphasis on a game against woeful Detroit, please consider that the Lions' historic woefulness is exactly what makes this a vital game.