NFL 2018: Biggest obstacle each team must overcome

Minnesota Vikings: Continue to be team to beat in NFC North

Just when it seemed like the Vikings were going to cruise to becoming the first team in NFL history to play in their own stadium for the Super Bowl, the Eagles came along and crushed those dreams by defeating the NFC North champions in the NFC Championship. When looking at all of the uncertainty surrounding Philadelphia with Nick Foles under center, some football fans viewed Minnesota as a lock to win the NFC last January, which once again shows the importance of playing out every game.

Keenum may no longer be in the picture after the Vikings decided to let the veteran walk in free agency, but the argument can be made they upgraded at the quarterback position after signing Kirk Cousins. Over the last couple of years, Cousins has been pushing hard to receive a hefty contract, and after Minnesota was willing to open up their checkbooks, the pressure is on for him to make sure this team continues to be a serious contender.

In previous years, it was the Packers that were always considered the early favorites to finish on top of the NFC North since Rodgers was always playing at a MVP level. After the Vikings took the crown last season, the pressure is now on to prove this wasn’t just a one-time thing.