Just two weeks ago, the Vikings were in control of their own destiny for the NFC Playoffs, but back-to-back road losses with a shorthanded defense has positioned Minnesota in a spot where the final five games of the 2021 regular season need to result in wins. That begins with Minnesota (5-7) hosting Pittsburgh (6-5-1) on Thursday Night Football, when the Vikings are hoping for a replenished defense. The Vikings are the ninth overall seed in the NFC Playoff picture; the Steelers are eighth in the AFC. Only the top seven in each conference will advance to the postseason.
The Vikings could have one of their key offensive players back for Thursday’s game against the Steelers. But they definitely will not have another. Running back Dalvin Cook is questionable for the matchup after he was listed as limited on the last two days of Minnesota’s injury report. Wednesday’s report was an estimate as the Vikings did not hold a full practice. But the fact that Cook was limited for consecutive days is a positive sign for his potential availability. Cook missed last week’s loss to the Lions after suffering a shoulder injury against the 49ers in Week 12. He’s accounted for 975 yards from scrimmage — 773 rushing, 202 receiving — with four touchdowns. Alexander Mattison would get another start if Cook can’t play. He rushed for 90 yards and had three catches for 34 yards in place of Cook last week. But receiver Adam Thielen is one of two players ruled out. He suffered an ankle injury early in the loss to Detroit and was unable to return to the contest. Thielen has 64 catches for 686 yards with 10 touchdowns in 2021. Offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw is also out with an ankle injury. Safety Camryn Bynum (ankle) and linebacker Blake Lynch (hip) are also questionable. But neither linebacker Anthony Barr (knee/hamstring) nor linebacker Eric Kendricks (biceps) have an injury status and are therefore expected to play. Cornerback Bashaud Breeland (groin), cornerback Mackensie Alexander (ribs), and linebacker Ryan Connelly (quad) are also expected to play. PFT
I really do believe Mike Zimmer feels like fu#k it,first things first they got to get there house in order and fix this mess cause I don't think he cares if they win or lose
Vikings running back Dalvin Cook was expected to miss a couple of weeks with a shoulder injury, but he returned to practice on Tuesday and wound up being listed as questionable to face the Steelers on Thursday night. Tom Pelissero of NFL Media reports that Cook is trending toward being in the lineup as the Vikings try to get a home win. He still needs to get final medical clearance before he’s a sure thing to be active. Pelissero adds that Cook will be wearing a harness or other added protection for the shoulder if he does get the green light to play. The Vikings enter Thursday night’s game with a 5-7 record and a loss would leave them with little remaining hope of advancing to the playoffs. They’ll be without wide receiver Adam Thielen in their bid for a win, so Cook’s return would be all the more welcome in Minnesota. PFT
I think his seat got warmer after the Detroit thing, but a win tonight and nothing will happen for now. They definitely need to get it right.
SKOL Go Vikes! I just put a fan post on the wrong thread, but I'm not changing it! lol! That helmet looks too good! BEAT THE BURGH!!! Always my back up team after Browns!
I don't get the delay of game QB's can see the clock yet they get called for it,and he missed the fg not good
Where in hell was this against the Lions I have very mixed feelings about this game...But i luv SACKS! .
