MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Vikings had all afternoon to watch their competitors play, with the realistic possibility that their spot in the postseason would be secured by the time they took the field.
Turns out, they didn't need the help. It was a lot more rewarding that way.
Adrian Peterson ran for 104 yards and a touchdown before resting in the fourth quarter, Harrison Smith took one of Eli Manning's three interceptions into the end zone and the Vikings qualified for the playoffs with a 49-17 victory over the listless New York Giants on a frigid Sunday night.