Minnesota Vikings fans, you might want to sit down for this one because the next few weeks could be a nail-biter. The Vikings are heading into the final stretch of this NFL season with a solid 12-2 record, and while they’ve clinched a playoff berth, their eyes are set on a bigger prize.

If they can sweep these last three games, they’ll not only take the NFC North crown but could potentially grab the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs. And that journey kicks off this Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, who sit at a respectable 8-6.

Now here’s where things get interesting. The Vikings might find themselves facing a Seahawks team without their starting quarterback.

Geno Smith is questionable after picking up an injury against the Packers. If he’s out, Sam Howell is expected to step in.

Let’s just say Howell’s recent showing, with a not-so-flattering 5-of-14 for 24 yards, no touchdowns, and an interception, doesn’t exactly inspire confidence.

However, the Vikings would do well to remember that Seattle’s package doesn’t rely solely on their quarterback. The Seahawks have talent stacked on both ends of the gridiron, and any misstep by Minnesota could be costly. So what do the Vikings need to shore up before they clash with this formidable foe?

Interior Line Troubles

Let’s start with the offensive line, particularly right down the middle. Blake Brandel, Garrett Bradbury, and Dalton Risner have had more than just a few off days.

They’re staring down a matchup with one of the NFL’s interior line titans – Seattle’s Leonard Williams. If they don’t limit Williams, this could spell major headaches for Minnesota’s offensive game plan.

It’s time for Coach Kevin O’Connell and his crew to get creative. Maybe quarterback Sam Darnold needs to be on the move more frequently to dodge interior pressure, or perhaps incorporating fullback C.J.

Ham and tight end Josh Oliver in protection schemes could take the edge off. Whatever the fix, the Vikings can’t afford to be passive, especially with playoff football around the corner.

Navigating Cam Robinson’s Woes

Then there’s left tackle Cam Robinson, who had an evening to forget against the Bears with a flurry of pre-snap penalties. Accounting for nearly half of the team’s penalties that game, Robinson’s lapse was uncharacteristic, especially considering his stable play since transferring from the Jaguars.

In a season where his arrival was meant to bolster the line after Christian Darrisaw’s departure, Robinson’s latest outing was an anomaly. But if this becomes a pattern, the Vikings might find themselves in trouble as they advance deeper into the season. This needs to be rectified, pronto.

Dialing Up Dallas Turner

And to all Vikings enthusiasts out there, yes, you guessed it – this is the part where we shout from the rooftops: “More Dallas Turner!” The rookie edge rusher has been a revelation every time he steps onto the field. Pair him with Jonathan Greenard or Andrew Van Ginkel, and watch the pass rush flourish.

Turner’s recent performances are evidence that he’s hitting his stride. This kid was no slouch coming into the league; his college exploits and combine numbers had him pegged as a first-round talent for a reason. The rookie has been easing into his role, but the way things are going, he’s ready to make some noise, and the Vikings would be wise to lean into that.

Minnesota’s edge rush has been impressive without over-relying on Turner, but it’s becoming clear that he’s poised to be a major player for them. The Vikings have their work cut out for them, but with a few adjustments, they’re more than capable of making a real impact this postseason. As we march toward the playoffs, the storyline is set – and Vikings fans wouldn’t want to be anywhere else but on this thrilling ride.