The Lions turned the ball over six times, losing to the Vikings to end their playoff hopes despite allowing only 161 net yards of total offense.

Follow Detroit Lions vs Minnesota Vikings live updates and score in an Christmas NFL game Thursday afternoon at U.S. Bank Stadium to start Week 17.

8:53 -- Minnesota does nothing with the turnover, yet another stand by the Detroit defense. But after getting the ball back, the Lions stall out after picking up one first down. Vikings have the ball back at their own one-yard line after an incredible 70-yard punt from Jack Fox.

The Vikings beat the Lions because of their defense. Brian Flores' unit, which entered the game having gone seven straight weeks without allowing a passing touchdown, dominated. The Vikings forced five turnovers. They shut down Detroit's run game, and quarterback Jared Goff looked flustered.

The Lions can only make the playoffs as the 7-seed, which will play the 2-seed in the wild-card round. Currently the 2-seed is the Bears, who have clinched a playoff berth and are a win OR a Packers loss away from winning the NFC North.

The Detroit Lions were officially eliminated from playoff contention in Week 17 with their 23-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas Day.