The Seattle Seahawks are determined to move forward after a disappointing loss to the Green Bay Packers, which allowed the Los Angeles Rams to surpass them in the NFC West standings. With an 8-6 record, the Seahawks are set to host the formidable Minnesota Vikings (12-2) in a critical game for their playoff aspirations.
Although the Seahawks have lost their lead in the division, this matchup is vital for their postseason chances. According to the NFL, Seattle has a 36% chance of reaching the playoffs, a figure that would rise to 52% with a victory over the Vikings.
Minnesota boasts a revitalized Sam Darnold at quarterback, supported by standout receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, along with one of the league’s top run defenses.
“They have really good players, a solid scheme, and they’re well-coached,” Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald said. “They can adjust their looks with the same personnel, which is something we need to prepare for.”
The Vikings are also in a position to clinch the No. 1 seed in the NFC if they continue to win. However, players are focused solely on the upcoming game. “It’s going to be a grind because these are really good football teams we’re going to play,” said Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell. “We have a lot ahead of us, but we need to get back to work and continue to improve.”
Injury Updates
Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith is expected to play on Sunday after suffering a knee injury against Green Bay. However, the team may be without running backs Kenneth Walker III, who has missed two games with a calf injury, and Zach Charbonnet, who is dealing with an oblique injury. Charbonnet has been effective in recent weeks, rushing for 134 yards and two touchdowns against Arizona and adding a 24-yard touchdown run against the Packers.
If Walker and Charbonnet are unavailable, Seattle may rely on third-stringer Kenny McIntosh or practice squad call-up George Holani.
Home Field Challenges
The Seahawks’ recent loss dropped their home record at Lumen Field to 3-5, marking only the second time since 2009 that Seattle has had a losing record at home. The defeat against the Packers was notably punctuated by loud “Go Pack Go” chants from visiting fans.
“I noticed it got really loud in there early on, and there were a lot of Green Bay fans,” receiver DK Metcalf said. “I just wish our fans hadn’t sold as many tickets, so we could maintain our home advantage. It would mean a lot to finish the season strong at home.”
Vikings’ Defensive Strength
In their recent victory, the Vikings limited the Chicago Bears to just one conversion on 12 third downs and one on three fourth downs. Despite allowing the fourth-most passing yards in the league, Minnesota excels in crucial moments, ranking fourth in third-down conversion percentage and first in fourth-down success. They are 13th in red-zone touchdowns allowed and third in goal-to-go situations.
The Vikings are tied for second in the league with 28 takeaways, leading with 20 interceptions, and have allowed the fourth-fewest points per game at 18.
“The accountability we have in our room is high, and it’s showing up as we enter the critical part of the season,” said safety Josh Metellus. “Everyone is focused on doing their job every single play.”
Dynamic Receiving Corps
As opposing defenses try to contain Jefferson, the Vikings have effectively exploited opportunities elsewhere, relying on players like Aaron Jones and taking advantage of single coverage against Addison and tight end T.J. Hockenson. Addison has recorded 30 catches for 473 yards and five touchdowns over the last five games.
“His professionalism has been evident all year, and it’s rewarding to see him succeed,” Darnold said of Addison. “Watching him excel is really fun.”
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