How often do 5-0 teams miss the NFL playoffs?

The Minnesota Vikings edged the New York Jets on Sunday in London to improve their season record to 5-0 as Stephon Gilmore's late interception of Aaron Rodgers denied the Jets a comeback attempt. Later today, the Kansas City Chiefs have a chance to join them as the last undefeated team in five weeks.

The Vikings entered Sunday with a one-game lead over the Detroit Lions in the NFC North and are on track to clinch a playoff spot for the second time in three seasons. However, Minnesota faces a difficult story. Teams that win their first five games of the regular season typically make the playoffs, but since 2003 the Vikings have gotten off to strong starts twice.

The Vikings started the 2016 season 5-0 and the 2003 season 6-0, failing to even secure a wild card spot in either case.

Following this trip to London they go on a break, and after the break they have what many consider to be a rather relaxed schedule. They host a strong Lions team in Week 7, but then face a struggling Rams team in Week 8 and then make an AFC South run against the Colts, Jaguars and Titans before traveling to Chicago before Thanksgiving.

They probably won't be undefeated after 12 weeks, but they can quickly pick up a few key wins and move closer to a playoff spot.

Since 1990, six times (including the two Vikings teams mentioned above) have started 5-0 and missed the playoffs:

After sealing their Week 5 victory over the Jets with an interception, the Vikings have a very good chance of making the playoffs. If they fail, Minnesota fans might start hoping for a loss early in the season just to avoid adding to their own story.