Winners of three in a row, the Vikings can get themselves in the thick of the playoff picture with a victory on Sunday. If Dak Prescott were quarterbacking the Cowboys, this would be a tough matchup for the Minnesota secondary. But with Andy Dalton likely to start at QB, the Vikings have the edge.
THREE BIG STORY LINES
Playoffs more than a pipe dream
With Arizona's loss to Seattle on Thursday night following three straight Vikings victories, the Vikings could pull within a game of the Cardinals for the NFC's seventh and final playoff spot with a win Sunday. The Vikings have won just once at U.S. Bank Stadium this season, but their next three are at home against teams that have a combined 6-22 record. The Cardinals travel to New England next week and face the Rams after that.
Can streak continue with no fans at home?
Gov. Tim Walz's new COVID-19 restrictions mean the Vikings won't be able to admit 250 employees and family members, as they've been doing the past few games. Coach Mike Zimmer talked this week about how the Vikings have had to adjust their energy level playing without fans in a building where they've used noise to their advantage. The team's playoff hopes hinge on their ability to win the next three in a building where they've been outscored 134-121 this season.
Vikings face the 'Red Rifle'
Dalton was cleared from the NFL's concussion protocol this week and figures to return as the starting quarterback for a Cowboys team that's still in the NFC East title race despite its 2-7 record. Dalton, who spent three seasons in Cincinnati when Mike Zimmer was the defensive coordinator there, has completed only 58.9% of his passes for one touchdown and three interceptions in two starts (both losses).
TWO KEY MATCHUPS
Vikings RT Brian O'Neill vs. Cowboys DE DeMarcus Lawrence
