The Minnesota Vikings have been facing an unprecedented situation at the quarterback position this season, with four different starters taking the field in the past seven games. Most recently, Nick Mullens has been named the team’s starting quarterback, following in the footsteps of Kirk Cousins, Jaren Hall, and Joshua Dobbs.
This frequent turnover at the quarterback position has historically proven to be challenging for NFL teams. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the Vikings will be the 29th team since 1950 to endure such frequency of turnover at the position. Of the previous 28 teams, only four have made the playoffs, and none of them were able to secure wins with all four of their starters in a seven-game stretch.
Despite the odds, the Vikings have a chance to make history. If Mullens can lead the team to a victory over the Bengals, the Vikings would have an 78.5% chance, according to ESPN’s Football Power Index, to become the first team in NFL history to make the playoffs after losing their starting quarterback for the season and rotating through three other starters so quickly after the injury. Even if they lose, the Vikings still have a 51.5% chance of reaching the postseason.
Mullens, who started the season as the Vikings’ No. 2 quarterback, expressed confidence in his ability to step in and lead the offense. He emphasized the team’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity, noting that they’ve been through a lot this year and the year is not over.
The Vikings’ offensive coordinator, Wes Phillips, expressed confidence in Mullens’ ability to lead the team, highlighting his familiarity with the offense and his competitiveness. With the offense designed for Cousins’ precision passing, Mullens now has the opportunity to pick up the reins and potentially enter the history books.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the Vikings remain focused and determined as they navigate through this unique season.