3 things the Vikings showed us that prove they’re a legit playoff threat

The Vikings defense can come together

Sure, if the Vikings have a weakness (besides awful special teams), it’s the defense. However, the defense was a big part of their three-game winning streak to get back into playoff contention in the first place. They just have to bounce back from a shaky performance against the Cowboys.

Led by linebackers Eric Kendricks and Eric Wilson, the defense was able to hold Aaron Rodgers and the Packers to 22 points just a few weeks ago. They gave up 20 to the lions and 13 to the Bears in wins over division rivals.

With an offense capable of putting up nearly 30 points per game, Minnesota knows their defense has more gas in the tank than they showed against the Cowboys when they allowed 31.

The Vikings defense already proved they could shut down the attacks of Chicago and Detroit. They’ll see them again in the final weeks. The Panthers and the Jaguars are averaging 23.3 and 221 points per game this year. Undoubtedly the Buccaneers and Saints have formidable offenses. At least Minnesota will catch a break with Drew Brees out for New Orleans.

It’s the biggest question mark for the squad going into the home stretch to be sure. Whatever margin for error there was has shrunk considerably since the loss to Dallas. But there is hope.