The Week 17 matchup between the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings was a strange one. It was a game between two eliminated division rivals, both of whom could fire their coaches on Monday -- and it played like a game with nothing on the line. Ultimately it was the Minnesota Vikings who prevailed, 14-13.
Lions vs. Vikings 2013 results: Minnesota closes out season with win, 14-13
Two eliminated teams squared off for pride, and the Vikings won by a nose.
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James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.
Adrian Peterson was held out of the Week 17 game, resulting in another stellar start from Matt Asiata. The former undrafted free agent has been a revelation with Peterson out, and on Sunday he ran for 115 yards on 14 carries. Asiata became the offensive pop the Vikings needed.
Asiata was joined by rookie Cordarrelle Patterson, who added 85 yards on the ground and through the air, scoring a rushing touchdown and a receiving touchdown.
Reggie Bush has been the unsung hero for the Lions in 2013. He might not be the most durable running back in the league, but he offered Detroit a pop on offense, particularly when the team struggled. On Sunday he amassed 65 all-purpose yards, and scored the team's sole touchdown. It wasn't enough, and Detroit continued their string of losses when Bush doesn't touch the ball at least 20 times.
Fantasy studs and duds
Patterson was a stud for Minnesota with two touchdowns.
Matthew Stafford struggled without Johnson, throwing for 217 yards and a touchdown.
Did they cover?
The Minnesota Vikings were 1.5 point favorites, according to OddsShark. They failed to cover with their one point win.
What’s next?
Both teams will not compete in the playoffs and will prepare for the draft.
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