The Minnesota Vikings have had an absolute rollercoaster ride of a season. Starting out 0-3 to begin the season after a phenomenal 2022 campaign, the Vikings were in desperate need for some answers. They dealt with a devastating injury to star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, but were somehow able to claw their way to 3-4. Then came an even bigger injury blow, when quarterback Kirk Cousins suffered a torn Achilles in Week 8 against the Green Bay Packers. The Vikings were able to win that game and move to 4-4 despite the loss of Cousins, but hope seemed hard to come by.

Enter Josh Dobbs. The former backup QB for the Pittsburgh Steelers took over the reigns for the Arizona Cardinals this season in Kyler Murray's absence. While he didn't impress, he also clearly was not the reason why the Cardinals only have one win on the season. Dobbs was traded to the Vikings right before Week 9's Sunday action commenced. He then led a masterful come-from behind victory over the Atlanta Falcons in a game he wasn't even supposed to play.

The Vikings have won five straight games, two of which have come with Dobbs under center–the latest against the New Orleans Saints in Week 10.

Why Josh Dobbs makes Vikings playoff contenders

Minnesota's offense is on a roll, and the defense has stepped up to put the Vikings right back on the map. Things are only getting better for the team, too. Justin Jefferson could make his return in Week 11, and Dobbs should only continue to grow in Minnesota's offensive system. They are red hot and showing no signs of slowing down.

Josh Dobbs has simply flown under the radar. He's quietly put up very impressive numbers this season, but now that he's with the Vikings, everyone can finally see it. In two games with the Vikings, Dobbs is 2-0. He's thrown for 426 yards and three touchdowns. Dobbs has also been a major threat running the football as well. He has rushed for 110 yards and two touchdowns. He's won over the locker room with his leadership and tremendous play in just two weeks of play.

The big question remains: Are the Vikings good enough to make the playoffs? All signs are pointing to yes. Not only are they riding an incredible winning streak, but their best player should return shortly. And as mentioned, their new quarterback has found his stride.

It should also help the Vikings that their next three games are against relatively weak teams. The Denver Broncos, Chicago Bears and Las Vegas Raiders give the Vikings a legitimate chance to win eight consecutive games. They'll have to play their division rival in the Detroit Lions twice, but the pressure won't be as high if Minnesota can win their easier matchups.

All seemed lost for the Vikings when Cousins went down with an injury. Now, things couldn't look any better. If Minnesota can capitalize on their schedule, they could be poised to clinch another playoff birth. Jefferson should be back in no time, and Josh “The Passtronaut” Dobbs has proved that he is here to stay. Skol Vikings Skol.