Vikings' Peterson Should Play Despite Minor Back Pain

Brett Favre may get all of the headlines for the Minnesota Vikings, but NFL insiders are well aware that running back Adrian Peterson is the key to the teams offensive success. Peterson's threat alone is enough to open up options for the passing game. Hes definitely more than a decoy, however--after winning the NFL rushing title last year hes already off to a great start with 272 yards and four touchdowns in only two games. His threat on the ground has been a large part for Favre's solid play with his new team.

There's been a good deal of concern this week in the Twin Cities media about Peterson's health. Specifically, there are questions about the severity of a back injury suffered last weekend. Peterson has been limited in his practice activities all week as a precaution, though both he and QB Favre as listed as probable on the NFLs official injury report. Peterson's back is the reason for his inclusion, while Favre is dealing with a minor finger sprain.

The NFLs leading rusher tried to downplay the significance of his injury in comments to reporters:

"God willing, I will be out there playing. Not a big deal at all."

He turned into a standup comic when asked for details on the injury. Asked when the injury occurred, Peterson quipped:

"It happened, like, a week back. But that's all behind me now."

Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell didnt sound too concerned, but he wasnt cracking jokes either:

"I'm comfortable with where he's at. I know he's been working hard to rehab. ... Right now, I think he's going to be OK, but we have to continue to go throughout the week with that."

Peterson ran for 92 yards and a touchdown against the Detroit Lions last weekend. His presence alone makes things much easier for the Vikings passing attack"opposing teams often put 8 or 9 men along the line of scrimmage to try and stop him, giving QB Brett Favre a great opportunity to get the ball downfield to his receivers in single coverage. Without Peterson in the game, Favre's passing opportunities don't come quite as easily.

The Vikings host a team known for their own potent running game this weekend, as the San Francisco 49ers come to town. Theyll remain at home the following week as the Green Bay Packers pay a visit for a game on Monday Night Football. A road game will follow, as the Vikings will head to St. Louis to face the lowly Rams on October 11th.