The Vikings certainly have no ill will towards Cousins because he was extremely popular in the locker room before he left and was a strong and accurate passer. But if the Vikings had kept Cousins for another tour of duty, they would have had to give him a contract similar to the one he signed with the Falcons.

The Minnesota Vikings have been one of the best surprises of the 2024 NFL season. Most NFL fans and analysts discounted the Vikings as the odd team out in the NFC North during the preseason. Now, the Vikings are 10-2 heading into Week 14 and are in the thick of the NFC playoff hunt.

Lions minus 3 1/2 Both teams are coming off wins on Thanksgiving. The Packers lost at home to the Lions a month ago and need this victory to have a chance at winning the NFC North. Detroit survived a close call last week thanks to Chicago's clock mismanagement.