For the Vikings to reach the Super Bowl …
Last week, the priority was disposing of the Bears while staying healthy. Mission accomplished. The priority this week: Rest up while not losing what coach Mike Zimmer calls the "edge." So behave, young fellas. Westgate SuperBook in Vegas has you at 4-1 to win the Super Bowl. That's No. 2 behind the Patriots (2-1).
Will there be a wild-card upset?
Question: Do you see a wild-card upset coming this weekend? The four home teams are favored by 6½ to 8 points. Tennessee has lost three of four and is an 8-point underdog at Kansas City. Buffalo has the worst offense among playoff teams and is an 8-point dog at Jacksonville. Answer: Sorry. But I see the wild-card round going according to script, with the Chiefs, Rams, Jaguars and Saints all winning. But keep an eye on Atlanta at the Rams.
Did you know?
The Bills and Vikings have something in common with the Patriots when it comes to Super Bowls. All three have lost four Super Bowls. Of course, New England does have those five wins as well. If the Patriots reach the Super Bowl and lose, they will tie Denver (3-5) for most Super Bowl losses. Hey, it's not easy finding a negative Super Bowl stat on the Patriots.
MARK CRAIG
