The Minnesota Vikings’ fairytale season hit another high point with their hard-fought 27-25 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. Now, a thrilling Week 18 showdown with the Detroit Lions awaits, with the NFC North title and the conference’s No. 1 seed on the line.
The Vikings’ 14-2 record and dominance this season have surprised nearly everyone. Few would have predicted such a meteoric rise under head coach Kevin O’Connell, especially with Sam Darnold leading the charge at quarterback after joining the team in the offseason. However, one person who saw it coming was ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky, and he’s not shy about reminding everyone.
On Monday morning’s episode of First Take, Orlovsky took a well-earned victory lap, recalling his preseason prediction that Minnesota would become a powerhouse team.
“I’m not shocked at all,” Orlovsky said confidently. “In fact, I said this was very likely to happen. Stephen A. [Smith] laughed at me for it.”
Orlovsky didn’t hold back on his praise for Darnold, emphasizing how the young quarterback’s talent has finally been unlocked under O’Connell’s system. “The only surprise to me,” Orlovsky added, “is that the NFL didn’t break him sooner. He’s proving all the doubters wrong.”
For those curious, the clip of Stephen A. Smith dismissing Orlovsky’s prediction earlier this year is making its rounds on social media.
In it, Smith reacts with disbelief, raising eyebrows and mocking Orlovsky’s take. “What’s wrong with you, Dan? Sam Darnold and the Vikings? Really?” Smith said at the time.
Fast-forward several months, and Orlovsky’s prediction seems almost prophetic. The Vikings have defied the odds, showcasing resilience, skill, and a revitalized offense under Darnold’s leadership. Minnesota’s defense has also stepped up in key moments, complementing an offense that has been nothing short of electric.
The Vikings’ remarkable turnaround has fans dreaming of postseason glory, and Orlovsky is basking in the validation of his bold preseason call. “They laughed at me, but look who’s laughing now,” he said with a grin.
With the Lions and Vikings set to clash for NFC supremacy in Week 18, the stage is set for one final regular-season statement.
Whether Orlovsky’s bold prediction ends in a Super Bowl appearance remains to be seen, but for now, he’s “very okay,” as he cheekily put it, relishing his moment in the spotlight.
