The path for the Detroit Lions to win the NFC North is now more challenging, as the Minnesota Vikings have won four games in a row and five of their last six games to improve their record to 5-4.
Quarterback Josh Dobbs, who spent time on Detroit’s practice squad last season, surprisingly led the Vikings to a 31-28 victory against the Atlanta Falcons.
What’s up ya’ll. I’m Josh Dobbs. I’m honored to be in Minnesota and introduce myself to everyone,” Dobbs said postgame, after defeating the Falcons. “Tremendous game, team effort. I know the circumstance I was put in was a little abnormal for a Sunday in the NFL.
Dobbs utilized his mobility and athleticism to aid the Vikings in their comeback victory.
The journeyman quarterback completed 20 of 30 passes for two touchdowns, while also rushing for 66 yards and a touchdown
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He can change the game athletically with his legs and even when I gave him plenty of bad plays today,” Vikings coach Keven O’Connell said. “He made it right. That’s something quite honestly that we knew bringing him here that was one of the traits. In addition to his leadership, his qualities, smarts and toughness. You have to be a mentally tough guy to go do what he did today.”
Currently, Detroit holds a 1.5 game lead over their division rival.
To end the season, Detroit plays Minnesota twice in the final three weeks of the regular season.
Following the Seahawks loss to the Ravens, Detroit holds on to a one-game lead of the No. 2 overall seed in the NFC.
The Eagles win against the Cowboys keeps them 1.5 games in the lead of the top seed in the playoff standings.
NFC North standings
- Lions: 6-2
- Vikings: 5-4
- Packers: 3-5
- Bears: 2-7
- NFC playoff standing
- Eagles: 8-1
- Lions: 6-2
- 49ers: 5-3
- Saints: 5-4
- Seahawks: 5-3
- Cowboys: 5-3
- Vikings: 5-4
