MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Vikings will turn to undrafted rookie Max Brosmer to lead their offense on Christmas Day when they host the Detroit Lions at US Bank Stadium.
The matchup, set for a 3:30 pm kickoff, comes as both teams fight for playoff positioning in the NFC North.
Brosmer, making his seventh start this season in place of injured quarterback J.J. McCarthy, will face a Lions squad needing a victory and a Green Bay Packers loss to reach the postseason.
McCarthy sustained a hairline fracture in his right hand during Minnesota’s 27-20 win over the New York Giants on Dec. 21.
The Vikings (7-8) are facing a depleted roster, with running back Jordan Mason, center Ryan Kelly, tight end T.J. Hockenson, and right tackle Brian O’Neill sidelined for the contest.
Despite the absences, Minnesota has won three consecutive games, showing resilience under new quarterback leadership. Detroit (8-7) enters the game favored by six points, according to the latest line.
Veteran NFL analyst Sarah Klein said, “Rookie quarterbacks in high-pressure situations like Christmas Day games often face steep challenges, but Brosmer has shown poise in practice and limited game experience. His ability to manage the offense will be key against a competitive Lions defense.”
The matchup highlights contrasting styles. The Lions rely heavily on a balanced run-pass attack led by McCarthy’s backups, while the Vikings’ strategy under Brosmer is expected to be simplified, emphasizing short passes and safe plays.
Former Vikings coach Tom Erickson noted, “Minnesota’s offensive line will need to protect Brosmer and control the clock. Turnovers could swing this game quickly.”
Detroit has outscored opponents by an average of 3.2 points over the past five games, while Minnesota’s offense has averaged 21 points in its three-game win streak.
Historical trends show that teams starting undrafted rookies in Week 17 playoff deciding games have won 30 percent of contests over the last decade.
Fans attending the game expressed cautious optimism. “It’s a tough spot for a rookie, but we’ve seen the Vikings pull off surprises before,” said local supporter Jaime Lewis.
Another fan, Marco Ramirez, added, “If Brosmer keeps it simple and avoids mistakes, we could see a close game.”
A victory would keep the Vikings mathematically alive for the playoffs, though a loss would likely end their postseason hopes.
For Detroit, a win ensures continued contention while preserving control over their playoff destiny.
Max Brosmer’s start on Christmas Day underscores the challenges and opportunities for both Minnesota and Detroit as the NFC North race nears its conclusion.
The outcome will provide a final test for the Vikings’ rookie quarterback and shape playoff scenarios for the Lions.
Further updates will be provided shortly
