However, their hopes were dashed as Minnesota suffered a disappointing 12-10 loss to the Chicago Bears, causing their record to drop to 6-6. Despite still holding the seventh and final playoff spot in the NFC, they now have only a narrow half-game lead over the Green Bay Packers and the Los Angeles Rams, both of whom have improved to 5-6 with consecutive victories.
The primary reason for Minnesota's loss was quarterback Joshua Dobbs, affectionately known as the "Passtronaut," who had been the feel-good story of 2023. Filling in for the injured Kirk Cousins (Achilles), who is out for the season, Dobbs initially led the Vikings to victories in his first two appearances after being acquired from Arizona. However, his recent performances have been marred by six turnovers, four of which occurred during the fateful game against a suddenly resurgent Chicago defense that has intercepted seven passes in its last two outings.
With the Vikings on a bye in Week 13, head coach Kevin O'Connell intends to reevaluate the quarterback situation. "We're going to take a close look and assess the plays we have in Josh's inventory," he stated to the media. O'Connell may consider turning to either the now-healthy Jaren Hall, a rookie from BYU who started in Week 9 at Atlanta before suffering an early concussion, or veteran journeyman Nick Mullens.
Mullens, a six-year veteran, has not seen action this season and has a 5-12 record in 17 previous starts for San Francisco and Cleveland.
If Dobbs, Hall, and Mullens are the only quarterback options available, the Vikings' prospects appear dim, and their playoff aspirations may be slipping away.
POLL | ||
28 NOVEMBRE | 30 ANSWERS The Vikings' dismal showing forces Head Coach Kevin O'Connell to make a significant decision. Is Kevin O'Connell a good NFL coach? | ||
Yes | 14 | 46.7 % |
no | 16 | 53.3 % |
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