The season that nearly made history at U.S. Bank Stadium
In short: In 2017, the Minnesota Vikings pursued a unique milestone: becoming the first team to host and play in a Super Bowl on their own home turf. They achieved almost every goal short of that final prize, culminating in one of the most dramatic finishes in football history.
The 2017 campaign marked the Vikings' 57th season in the NFL and their fourth under head coach Mike Zimmer. High-profile prestige served as the main goal; for U.S. Because U.S. Bank Stadium was set to hold Super Bowl LII, the club sought a championship at home. They met almost all those targets, achieving their top regular season mark since 1998 and earning a first-round bye for once since 2009.
The season was defined by significant roster shifts and high-octane drama. It was the first year without star running back Adrian Peterson, following the team's decision to decline his contract option in February. Despite this transition, the team became the first in the Super Bowl era to reach a conference championship game in the same year they hosted the big game. This journey included the "Minneapolis Miracle," a walk-off victory against the New Orleans Saints in the divisional round.
The quest for history ended in a crushing reversal during the NFC Championship Game. Despite being three-point favorites heading into Lincoln Financial Field, the Vikings were routed 38–7 by the number one seed Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles' offense exploded for 31 unanswered points over the final three quarters after an early interception return by Patrick Robinson. This loss extended the franchise's NFC title drought to 41 seasons, leaving them just short of their historic goal.
Individual excellence was still on display despite the team's ultimate disappointment. Harrison Smith was rated as the league's best safety by Pro Football Focus, eventually earning a late Pro Bowl spot after an injury withdrawal. Other notable selections included Everson Griffen, Xavier Rhodes, and Adam Thielen, who were named starters for the mid-season showcase.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 2017 Minnesota Vikings season
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