The Detroit Lions are set to host the Minnesota Vikings in Week 18 of the 2024 NFL season.
This pivotal game will determine first place in the National Conference as both teams conclude the regular season. Tensions are high, and Lions head coach Dan Campbell shared his expectations for his team against quarterback Sam Darnold and the visiting Vikings.
This matchup carries significant weight beyond the final score. The winner of the Lions-Vikings game will earn a crucial first-round bye in the postseason, while the loser will begin the playoffs on the road as the NFC’s fifth seed. The stakes couldn’t be higher.
Detroit has established itself as the NFC’s top team with a powerful offense and renewed confidence under Campbell’s leadership. Meanwhile, the Vikings boast a formidable defense and rely on Darnold, who has revitalized his career and now plays a key role in this fierce divisional showdown between two 14-2 teams.
Campbell’s message to Darnold’s Vikings
Coach Campbell emphasized the importance of focus for Sunday’s game. “Right now, our entire focus is on this game. We’ve got to find a way to win – just like we did in Chicago last week. This is the next one, and we’ve got to win, no matter how it happens,” Campbell told the Detroit Free Press.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold prepares before the game against the Chicago Bears in Chicago, IL.
“This is exciting, but it’s not quite the playoffs yet. We’ll go through our walk-through, give the guys everything we have, and then let them go out and make plays. That’s the fun part. We’ve envisioned this, and now it’s within our reach,” Campbell stated.
Vikings-Lions game set for NFL history
Campbell’s comments highlight his determination to win at all costs against the Vikings. Sunday night’s game marks the first regular-season matchup featuring two teams with at least 13 wins and a combined total of 28 victories. This clash is already historic.
Recap of the previous Lions-Vikings game in 2024
Detroit and Minnesota have faced off once this season. Campbell’s Lions secured a 31-29 victory over Darnold’s Vikings in Week 7, clinching the win with a 44-yard field goal in the final 15 seconds after Minnesota overcame an 11-point deficit.
