While Kirk Cousins’ return to Minnesota is the headline leading into the Vikings’ matchup Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons at U.S. Bank Stadium, the game has significant playoff implications. It is already a preview of a first-round playoff matchup if the season ended today.

At 10-2 after Sunday's win over the Cardinals, the Vikings have all but secured their spot in the NFL postseason. FTN Fantasy's DVOA gives them a 99.7 percent chance to make the playoffs. 1. Vikings win vs. Falcons 2. Seahawks win at Cardinals 3. Bills win at Rams

The Vikings could also clinch a playoff spot if they tie the Falcons, and if the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Cardinals and Rams all lose. They would also be in if Buccaneers lose, Cardinals and Seahawks tie, Rams lose and the Philadelphia Eagles beat or tie the Carolina Panthers.

Lions minus 3 1/2 Both teams are coming off wins on Thanksgiving. The Packers lost at home to the Lions a month ago and need this victory to have a chance at winning the NFC North. Detroit survived a close call last week thanks to Chicago's clock mismanagement.

There would be a lot of attention on how Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins plays this week regardless of the team's opponent, but there will be even more eyeballs on him because the team will be facing the Vikings.

NFL Week 14 odds, picks, predictions, TV channel, streaming information for Sunday football game between the Atlanta Falcons and Minnesota Vikings.