The cardiac kids are well and truly alive in the NFC. Despite trying everything they could to throw yet another game away, Minnesota hung on to defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers in dramatic fashion.

After a horrific outing for the majority of Thursday night, Pittsburgh somehow had an opportunity to tie the game in the final seconds — permitting a successful two-point conversion.

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger’s throw to tight end Pat Freiermuth hit him in the hands, but Vikings defenders Anthony Barr and Harrison Smith smashed into the rookie at the perfect, dislodging the ball to give the Vikings a crucial victory.

Despite another W in the win column, Minnesota almost gave up the insurmountable, after leading 29-0 late in the third. All bar one of Minnesota’s games have been decided by eight points or less. This includes four losses by less than three points.

“Never say ‘over’ with this team,” said Vikings’ head coach Mike Zimmer. Meanwhile, the Steelers cost themselves dearly. Their spirited comeback means very little in the context of their season, which hangs on a knife edge at 6-6-1, currently third in the AFC North.

“We’re running out of time,” Roethlisberger said. “I don’t look at moral victories.”

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin was apathetic about his team’s comeback, eviscerating their second poor performance in as many games. “We were JV again tonight, and I’m talking up front on both sides,” Tomlin said.

Pittsburgh’s next chance to redeem themselves arrives on Dec. 19 at home to Tennessee, while Minnesota will look to extend their winning run at Chicago on Monday Night Football, Dec 20.