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NFL Playoffs 2016: 5 reasons the Minnesota Vikings still make it

By Adam Cox

Sep 25, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen (97) reacts after making a sack in the fourth quarter. The Vikings defeated the Panthers 22-10 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen (97) reacts after making a sack in the fourth quarter. The Vikings defeated the Panthers 22-10 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) is sacked during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Cowboys defeated the Vikings 17-15. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) is sacked during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Cowboys defeated the Vikings 17-15. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

1. The Vikings have one of the best defenses in the NFL

Despite all of their offensive injuries and struggles, injuries to their head coach, and losing streaks, the Minnesota Vikings can always count on their defense. The Vikings’ defense, which was good last season, has been even better in 2016.

Last season the Vikings finished 13th in the NFL in total defense. This season they’re 3rd. Last season the Vikings finished 18th in total takeaways. This season they’re 5th and have equaled last season’s total of 22. Last season the Vikings finished 7th in the NFL with 43 sacks. This season they are 4th.

During the 2015-16 season the Vikings were 5th in points allowed and 14th in defensive DVOA. This season they are 4th in points allowed per game and 6th in DVOA.

The Vikings’ defensive line, linebackers, and secondary all rank among the best of their respective units in the NFL. Also, they are filled by young players who continue to improve on an almost weekly basis. All-Pro safety Harrison Smith may miss the rest of the season, but even without Smith the Vikings defense will be fine.

The Vikings have had to rely on their defense this season to keep their anemic offense in games, and the defense has come through for the most part. There is no reason to think this defensive performance won’t continue. And even just a slight offensive improvement will help the defense not wear down over the course of a game.

Imagine a rested Minnesota defense.

Next: Four reasons the Minnesota Vikings will win the NFC North

The Vikings are not all they could have been this season. Injuries have seen to that. The Vikings can, however, still make the playoffs. As we’ve detailed, there are at least five reasons why this is the case.

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