Vikings vs. Eagles: Preview, score prediction for NFC Championship

NFC Championship: Minnesota Vikings vs. Philadelphia Eagles

The Minnesota Vikings head to Philadelphia for the second straight year. Last season, Mike Zimmer’s team was 5-0 and wound up falling to the Eagles, 21-10.

Now two teams that failed to reach the playoffs in 2016 are vying for an appearance in Super Bowl LII after earning a berth in the NFC Championship Game. However, the roads to this point for both teams have been quite different.

Even still, what will be in store for the fans as these two squads go to war on the gridiron come Sunday in the City of Brotherly Love?

Key to Victory

The Eagles and Vikings rank 1-2 in the NFL in rushing defense, respectively. On the other hand, only two teams ran for more yards than Philadelphia this season. Meanwhile, Minnesota finished seventh in the league in this category – one year after running for the fewest yards in the NFL.

Whoever can get their ground gamegoing on Sunday stands a great chance of winning.

Betting Odds

Point Spread: Vikings (-3)
Over/Under: 38.5

Prediction

The Philadelphia Eagles were certainly a different team with a healthy Carson Wentz behind center. In any case, they have managed to hold their own without him and found different ways to get the job done. The team looked nervous in the first half against the Atlanta Falcons but managed to pitch a shutout in the second half. Regardless, putting up points against the Minnesota Vikings is easier said than done. And the club may need an assist from its defense for that to happen.

Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: Conference Championship edition

As for Zimmer’s club, they have been very balanced on the offensive side of the ball and it is just one reason this team has made big strides from a year ago. As it stands right now, this is arguably the most complete team in the league at the moment. Conversely, a late field goal will send the Vikings to Super Bowl LII.

Final Score: Minnesota Vikings: 20, Philadelphia Eagles: 17