NFL1 hour ago2 minute read

Are the Undefeated Minnesota Vikings Better Than History Suggests?

Minnesota is off to a 6-0 start in 2026, but historical metrics reveal a heavily imbalanced roster.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

How the Undefeated Vikings Measure Up

Undefeated starts are hard to achieve in the NFL. Minnesota has opened its 2026 campaign with six straight wins, but not all undefeated teams look the same. For instance, the 1999 Rams won their first six games by an average of 25.7 points. Minnesota has taken a much tighter path, winning four of its six contests by less than a touchdown.

Only two of Minnesota's games were decided by double digits. They beat Green Bay 39-22 in the season opener and topped New Orleans 23-13 in Week 5. Despite the close games, Minnesota leads the league with 8.5 points per game in point differential, just ahead of San Francisco at 8.3.

Defense Leads the Way in Minnesota

The current roster carries a heavy imbalance across phases. Minnesota ranks 30th in offensive DVOA, staying ahead of only the 1-6 Titans and 0-6 Chargers. On the other side of the ball, Minnesota holds the second spot in defensive DVOA behind Seattle, while placing first overall in special teams.

Minnesota holds a 17.5% DVOA rating and a plus-51 point differential after six games. That places them near the 1985 Los Angeles Rams, who also relied on defense and special teams during their undefeated start. The 1985 Rams featured CFL star Dieter Brock at quarterback alongside superstar running back Eric Dickerson.

Historical Context and What Lies Ahead

Offensive play usually offers a clearer prediction of future success than defense or special teams. That creates some concern for Minnesota down the stretch. Schedules are also set to tighten up significantly.

Minnesota benefited from the second easiest schedule in the league across the first six weeks, trailing only Kansas City. Moving forward, the team faces the fifth hardest remaining schedule overall, which includes the second toughest slate of opposing offenses in the NFL behind Tennessee.

What it means for the next game

Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL, Sun, 01 Nov): Tampa Bay Buccaneers win 50%, Atlanta Falcons win 50%; projected score Tampa Bay Buccaneers 22, Atlanta Falcons 21. Our safest pick: Falcons +9.5.

Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions (NFL, Sun, 01 Nov): Detroit Lions win 55%, Minnesota Vikings win 45%; projected score Detroit Lions 24, Minnesota Vikings 21. Our safest pick: Under 53.5 points.