With a shot at the playoffs, all eyes are on the ankle of Adrian Peterson. The running back has been a big reason the Minnesota Vikings have found so much success this year and why Teddy Bridgewater has all but avoided the sophomore slump. However, Peterson went down with an ankle injury in Week 15 that could be a factor in whether or not he plays against the New York Giants.
According to Ben Goessling of ESPN, there is no damage to Peterson's ankle, but the running back will get treatment on the issue during the week and might miss some practice time. However, Goessling reports that Peterson is expected to play against the Giants in Week 16.
"I really can't pinpoint it right now, but it was definitely an ankle sprain," Peterson said, via ESPN.com. "I was able to get out and kind of get it loose, and I got loose enough after about the first series [of the third quarter] and was able to get back out there."
Peterson is currently leading the league in rushing as he will be a huge reason the Vikings make the playoffs if they do. The team can clinch a playoff berth if the Seattle Seahawks win or the Atlanta Falcons lose. They could also get in if the Green Bay Packers lose. If that takes place, the Vikings might be more inclined to sit Peterson in the game which would make Jerick McKinnon a must-start in fantasy, He would be the lead back with Matt Asiata working in. For now, the Vikings are operating under the impression that Peterson will be good to go.
Peterson is helping the offense, but he is also helping Bridgewater who is quietly putting together a strong season. The success of Peterson has opened up the playbook for the Vikings. The quarterback can now hit Mike Wallace on the play-action pass or get Stefon Diggs open. According to Peterson, Bridgewater has a different look about him this year and the team is benefitting as a result.
"These past two weeks I've seen a different look in his eyes," Peterson said, via ESPN.com. "I really don't have to say much to him. I say what I normally say to him -- just play fast and play smart -- but I see a look in his eyes and I know he's good and he's ready to go."
The Vikings have a chance to be dangerous come the playoffs with both Peterson and Bridgewater playing some of their best football. The ankle injury Peterson does not appear to be all that serious. Even if the running back misses practice time, he is expected to be active in Week 16 which is good news for the playoff dreams.