Even the most optimistic of Vikings fans must have known that it was a long shot.
To still make the playoffs, Minnesota not only had to win out, but the Cardinals would have to lose out and the Bears would have to split their last two games.
So there was hope — but not a lot — heading into the matchup against the Saints on Christmas day. New Orleans made sure to dash those hopes in the second half.
Running back Alvin Kamara ran through the depleted Vikings defense and Minnesota’s offense couldn’t keep up. The Vikings’ loss eliminated them from playoff contention and made for another disappointment in a very coal-filled 2020 season.