Next Sunday night's showdown between the Minnesota Vikings and the Detroit Lions is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated games of the 2024 NFL season. With both teams vying for the NFC North title, there's already plenty on the line — but the stakes go beyond just division bragging rights. The winner of this game will also secure the top seed in the NFC playoffs, guaranteeing home-field advantage throughout the postseason.
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What makes this matchup even more compelling is its historical significance. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the Vikings-Lions game will mark just the fourth regular season contest between two teams that have each won at least 13 games.
The only other games to feature such a feat were a 2005 clash between the Seahawks and Colts, a 1983 meeting between Washington and Dallas, and a 1926 matchup between the Bears and the Frankford Yellow Jackets.
Historically, the previous three games in this exclusive club have resulted in teams advancing to the Super Bowl — both Seattle and Washington won their respective games and went on to play in the big game. With that kind of precedent, the winner of Sunday's game could be setting themselves up for a deep playoff run, potentially making the winner the team to beat in the NFC.
The Lions have been one of the most exciting teams in the NFL this year, powered by a potent offense and an emerging defense. Meanwhile, the Vikings have looked just as impressive, riding a well-balanced attack and a defense that's played better than expected. With both teams at the peak of their powers, next Sunday's game promises to be a high-stakes, high-drama spectacle that could define the 2024 season for years to come.
