They are heading into the mists of Seattle and, perhaps, history.
They are embarking Sunday on a three-week journey to culminate what could become the most endearing season in the long and unconsummated legacy of Minnesota Vikings football.
They will play in perhaps the most atmospheric stadium in football. The Seattle Seahawks’ home field is now named Lumen Field, and by late Sunday afternoon, as this important game is being decided, it will feel and look like a skillful director’s movie set.
This game will be won or lost in the gloaming, with misting rain either existent or threatening, coating the scene in sepia tones.
The Vikings have been here before, geographically and emotionally. This is the place where Russell Wilson pilfered seeming victories from them, where the weight of one of the loudest outdoors stadiums and most passionate fan bases can make the fourth quarter feel like a grunge mosh pit with a goal line. A member of Pearl Jam may appear at any time, and so might a fourth-quarter collapse by the visiting team.
NFL games in September and December don’t feel different merely because of the heightened importance of a playoff race. They also look different, especially in outdoor stadiums.
The light will fade as the plays become more vital. Every play will inspire a collective flinch, or cheer, or groan from millions.
This will begin a three-week test of the Vikings’ resistance to their own franchise’s earned reputation. The path is steep, but clear.
