Two more teams have clinched playoff berths after winning their Week 15 assignments. The Houston Texans will enter the postseason for the second consecutive year, while the Minnesota Vikings are making a playoff return.
The Texans clinched the AFC South division title after a 20-12 victory over the Miami Dolphins. C.J. Stroud threw two touchdown passes to Nico Collins, who finished with four catches for 17 yards. The Texans won despite having 208 yards on offense and no player above 35 yards from scrimmage.
Meanwhile, the Texans' defense deserves much credit after getting three interceptions off Tua Tagovailoa. Derek Stingley Jr. had two picks, while Calen Bullock had the other one. Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. had one sack each.
On the other hand, the Vikings dominated the Atlanta Falcons 42-21, spoiling Kirk Cousins’ return to Minnesota. With the game tied at 21 after three quarters, the Vikings scored 21 unanswered points in the final quarter to pull away.
The @Vikings have secured their spot in the #NFLPlayoffs!#EasyToCelebrate | @budlight pic.twitter.com/MAtBxAOXyZ
— NFL (@NFL) December 16, 2024
Sam Darnold was phenomenal, completing 22 of 28 passes for 347 yards, five touchdowns, and zero touchdowns. Three of his touchdown throws went to Jordan Addison, who finished with eight receptions for 133 yards.
Meanwhile, Justin Jefferson had seven catches for 132 yards and two touchdowns. Aaron Jones added 13 carries for 73 rushing yards and a touchdown. Jamin Davis had a sack on defense, while Josh Metellus and Byron Murphy Jr. had an interception.
The Texans joined the Kansas City Chiefs (AFC West champions) and the Buffalo Bills (AFC East champions) in the postseason ticket. Likewise, the Vikings joined the Philadelphia Eagles and the Detroit Lions in the NFC playoff picture.
-Lance Fernandez