Many predicted that the Vikings would miss the playoffs this season, and some even had Minnesota picking first in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, the Vikings have exceeded all expectations, and Minnesota is currently battling for the No. 1 seed in the NFC, with a record of 12-2.
There is a multitude of reasons why the Vikings are successful. You can look at Sam Darnold and his resurgence behind center, or Aaron Jones at running back, or even the great Vikings defense under Brian Flores. But Minnesota banked heavily on head coach Kevin O’Connell, and that’s paying major dividends as we speak.
Looking over at BetMGM, O’Connell is currently the betting favorite to win Coach of the Year. O’Connell has +115 odds to win and is leading Lions’ coach Dan Campbell, who has the next best odds at +250.
O’Connell’s offense has been great for whoever is at quarterback — look at Josh Dobbs for a few games last season — and Darnold is having a historic year under O’Connell’s guidance.