Vikings’ playoffs chances after Panthers victory

The Vikings built their team for the short term. With the one-year deals Minnesota has on the table, it needs to perform as soon as 2021 to stave off any talks of a roster teardown.

Minnesota did itself no favors by starting 0-2. But the Vikings have climbed back into contention recently, winning three of their last four games.

So have the Vikings done enough to re-enter the playoff picture? According to FiveThirtyEight.com, Minnesota has a 39% chance of making the postseason in 2021. The analysis website also gave the Vikings a 15% chance of winning the NFC North.

Right now, the Packers are in a lot better of a position to take the division. Green Bay notched its record to 5-1 with a win over Chicago this week. The Packers have a 90% chance of making the playoffs and an 80% chance of winning the division. But in an NFL season, a lot of things can change — just ask the Vikings this year.