The Lions-Vikings rivalry is an NFL rivalry between two NFC North teams, the Detroit Lions and the Minnesota Vikings. The Lions and Vikings have been battling since the Vikings entered the league in 1961. The Vikings have dominated the series. However, the Detroit Lions have given the Minnesota Vikings, a usual contender for the NFL playoffs, many surprisingly close games over the years. As a result, the Lions have given the Vikings more trouble than they have to the other NFC North powers, the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers.