Defining game

The Vikings had key wins in Washington against the Redskins and in Seattle. But the Vikings blew a lead against the Bears and failed to give a reasonable effort in a statement game against the New England Patriots.
Now, they will play the defining game of their 2006 season.
Its realistic that a 9-7 team will slip into the playoffs. But the Vikings need to generate some momentum and there's no better time than December? Remember how the Pittsburgh Steelers finished strong in the regular season to win the Super Bowl?
Beating the Bears could give the Vikings such a boost. But if they lose, I don't see the Vikings making a dent in the postseason, even if they back their way in.