Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell watches the action against the Los Angeles Rams.
The Vikings were nearing full health ahead of the playoffs but will miss a key player for their crucial finale against the Detroit Lions.
After defeating the Green Bay Packers 27-25 on December 29, O’Connell revealed that linebacker Pat Jones II suffered a knee injury during the game and will miss time. Jones, who ranks third on the team with 7.0 sacks, will undergo further evaluation on Monday.
“It’s his right knee,” O’Connell said. “We hope it’s not long-term, but we won’t know more until his full evaluation. I expect he’ll miss some time, but I can’t say how long yet.”
O’Connell also mentioned that Aaron Jones was held out of the Packers game due to a quad contusion. Jones appeared ready to return, staying on the sideline with his helmet as Minnesota led by 17 points in the fourth quarter.
Rookie Dallas Turner is expected to play a bigger role in Jones’ absence.
Vikings-Lions Game Moved to Primetime
Following the Vikings’ win, the NFL flexed their matchup with Detroit to Sunday Night Football. The game will decide the NFC North title and top NFC playoff seed.
In their first meeting, Detroit secured a 31-29 win in Week 7 with a last-minute field goal. This rematch will differ as Detroit is plagued by injuries.
Despite losing Defensive Player of the Year candidate Aidan Hutchinson for the season, Detroit’s injury woes have worsened, with 19 players on injured reserve. Starting running back David Montgomery’s return is uncertain.
Detroit’s defensive struggles showed in a 48-45 loss to the Buffalo Bills in Week 16, tightening the NFC’s top seed race.
After facing the 49ers (6-9) on Monday, Detroit (14-2) and Minnesota (14-2) will enter the finale tied.
Lions Slight Favorites in Finale
The Lions are 2.5-point favorites entering Week 18. Detroit has won four straight against Minnesota and holds home-field advantage.
However, Minnesota is on a nine-game win streak and ranks ninth in scoring, led by Sam Darnold.
This rematch could be another high-scoring affair, but Minnesota’s defense may step up.
In Week 7, the Vikings missed linebacker Blake Cashman (turf toe), whose absence was noticeable. Cashman, the team’s defensive play-caller, could not prevent several big plays.
Minnesota’s defense must play flawlessly to stop Detroit. If Cashman and the defense deliver when needed, the Vikings have the offensive power to clinch the NFC North and top seed.
