Get excited Vikings fans, Adrian Peterson will make an unexpected return from injury today – and he’s set to start against the Colts.
After returning to training following three months out with a torn meniscus, the star running back is hoping to help Vikings secure an unlikely place in the playoffs.
He’ll likely have a lighter workload than usual, splitting snaps with fellow backs Jerrick McKinnon and Matt Asiata, but NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport reports he’ll still be the starter.
#Vikings RB Adrian Peterson will not only play vs. #Colts, but he's going to start, source said. Carries determined by how his knee feels.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 18, 2016
#Vikings have no snap count for RB Adrian Peterson. They just don’t want to run him into the ground his 1st game back. Don’t expect 50 of em
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 18, 2016
The Vikings need to carry a threat on their running game, given they are currently 24th in the NFL in points, 31st in total yards and 32nd in rushing yards, with the team’s outstanding defense mostly responsible for their 7-6 record.
The Vikings need to win out if they are to have any chance of making the playoffs, with Sunday’s game against the Colts followed by a trip to Lambeau on Christmas Eve, before the regular season ends against the Bears.
We took a look at the easiest route for the Vikings to make the playoffs while still controlling their own destiny, and it involves cheering for the Lions on Sunday even though they are top of the NFC North.
