** FILE ** Minnesota Vikings coach Mike Tice reacts to a call against the Carolina Panthers, Oct. 30, 2005, in Charlotte, N.C. The Minnesota Vikings were a mess about a month ago and the Detroit Lions were atop the NFC North. The Vikings (6-5) have won four straight to salvage their season, perhaps saving Mike Tice's coaching job. Meanwhile, the Lions (4-7) have struggled so much, losing four of five, coach Steve Mariucci his fired after an awful performance on Thanksgiving. (AP Photo/Rick Havner)