MINNEAPOLIS — After upsetting the Detroit Lions on the road last week, the Vikings put themselves back into the playoff picture. Though it was going to be an uphill climb to get themselves above the cut line, the Vikings had seemingly figured out a recipe for success.

A balanced offense that only asked young quarterback J.J. McCarthy to make a handful of plays. A dynamic defense that didn’t allow their opponent to get into a rhythm. A spirited special teams unit that provided a spark here and there.

That was nowhere to be found on Sunday afternoon at U.S. Bank Stadium as the Vikings suffered a 27-19 loss to the Baltimore Ravens that didn’t even feel that close.

After an impressive opening drive, McCarthy couldn’t get into a rhythm, completing 20 of 42 passes in total for 248 yards, a to

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