Adam New’s Revised Win-Loss Prediction for 2024 Vikings
I previously gave my win-loss predictions, but then JJ McCarthy got injured and was ruled out for the whole season. I had McCarthy taking over as the starting quarterback from Week 7, which has led me to look again. This is my revised win-loss prediction for the 2024 Vikings, with Sam Darnold at the helm of the offense for the whole season.
Adam New’s Revised Win-Loss Prediction for 2024 Vikings
I’ve also taken into account what I’ve seen from the preseason, including the very useful addition of Stephon Gilmore to the CB ranks. Can Kevin O’Connell get the best out of Darnold, and can Brian Flores produce a more consistent Vikings defense? These are the main questions that will determine how well the Vikings do this season.
Minnesota isn’t burdened by the weight of expectations this season and is seen as rank outsiders to hoist the Lombardi trophy in February. Most people outside of the Vikings’ orbit think the Vikings will be bottom dwellers in the division. However, I believe they will surprise many with how competitive they are across the course of the season. What does all this mean in terms of wins?
My final win-loss prediction for the 2023 Vikings is 7-10
Previously I predicted an 8-9 record and am now giving the Vikings one less win. However, I have changed my mind on more than one game. I do still think the Vikings can be competitive with Darnold but I have my doubts about him in the clutch moments in close games
Week 1-6
The opening game at MetLife Stadium against the New York Giants represents the best chance of a win in a tough opening stretch of games. Home games against the 49ers, Texans, and Jets are difficult propositions, with a trip to Lambeau Field thrown in for good measure. I had the Vikings losing the next four games before the bye week previously, but I’ve changed my mind and optimistically predict a Sam Darnold revenge game in Week 5.
Week 1: Win at Giants 1-0
Week 2: Lose vs 49ers 1-1
Week3: Lose vs Texans 1-2
Week 4: Lose at Packers 1-3
Week 5: Lose vs Jets 2-3
Week 6: Bye
After the bye week, I had McCarthy taking the reigns of the offense and providing the spark for a surprise win over the Lions. Now that that is not the case, I don’t foresee that same spark and expect the Vikings to lose in a close one.
Week 7-12
Week 7: Lose vs Lions 2-4
Week 8: Lose at Rams 2-5
Week 9: Win vs Colts 3-5
Week 10: Lose at Jaguars 3-6
Week 11 Win at Titans 4-6
Week 12: Lose at Bears 4-7
The Vikings as a team should have enough to beat the Colts and Titans in this section of the season. Although I think the Vikings can be competitive with the Rams, Jaguars, and Bears, I don’t think they will win any of those games. That will leave Minnesota with a lot of work to do over the final stretch of games if they are to make the playoffs.
Week 13-18
Week 13: Win vs Cardinals 5-7
Week 14: Win vs Falcons 6-7
Week 15: Win vs Bears 7-7
Weeks 16: Lose at Seahawks 7-8
Week 17: Lose vs Packers 7-9
Week 18: Lose at Lions 7-10
In typical Minnesota fashion, I have the purple team getting everyone’s hopes up with three straight wins, only to be dashed with three losses to end the season.
At 7-7 going into the last three games, the Vikings should be in the mix for at least the last wildcard spot. However, I have my doubts about Darnold in the big-pressure games on the road in Seattle and the two divisional games to end the season.
A second season with a 7-10 finish isn’t a disaster if the Vikings have looked competitive, improved on defense, and already have their potential future QB waiting in the wings. Minnesota should have enough cap space to make some significant additions in 2025 where an improvement on a 7-10 record will be expected.
Mike Zimmer Goes Scorched Earth
You must be logged in to post a comment.