Backup QB and a struggling defense face an NFC contender. Can Jefferson ignite Minnesota, or will the Seahawks dominate?
The Minnesota Vikings take on the Seattle Seahawks in Week 13, and there’s a real chance this game ends up being lopsided. Seattle is a legitimate contender in the NFC playoff picture, while Minnesota has fluttered in recent weeks and enters today’s matchup without momentum.
To make matters worse, the Vikings will be rolling with a backup quarterback, which only widens the talent gap. Still, this is the NFL, and anything can happen on any given week. With that in mind, here are the three things you should be watching for today.
1. Justin Jefferson’s Response to Adversity
Jefferson hasn’t had the season he hoped for. In fact, it’s been one of the most disappointing stretches of his young career. Not only will he be without an experienced quarterback today, but he’ll also be catching passes from an even less experienced option than normal.
With J.J. McCarthy out, undrafted rookie Max Brosmer will take over the offense. It’s his first real opportunity to show what he’s capable of, and while there’s always a chance for instant chemistry to spark Jefferson’s season, it’s tough to bank on. Jefferson has worked with multiple quarterbacks this year, and none of them has produced the breakout fans expected.
2. Can the Vikings' Defense Turn Things Around?
The Vikings' defense has been the identity of this team in recent years, carrying Minnesota at times even when the offense struggled. That hasn’t been the case this season. There have been flashes of dominance, but just as many lapses that have shifted games.
With a backup quarterback leading the offense today, the defense has to step up and play closer to the level fans have come to expect. If they can’t slow Seattle down, this could get out of hand quickly.
3. What Direction Does Minnesota go From Here?
At 4-7, the Vikings are essentially out of the playoff race. A loss today would almost certainly shut the door completely. That raises a bigger question: does Minnesota start prioritizing young players and leaning into development, or does the staff push to stay competitive for as long as possible?
Player rotations, snap counts and in-game decisions could reveal how the organization is approaching the final stretch of the season, which will be very telling.
The Vikings and Seahawks will kick off at 3:05 p.m. CT in Seattle as Minnesota looks to pull off an upset against the 8-3 Seahawks in enemy territory.