Adrian Peterson Struggling To Get Going
By Adam Carlson
Oct 21, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants defensive back Will Hill (25) dives to tackle Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Adrian Peterson didn’t look like the running back that Vikings fans have seen over the last couple years. Last year’s NFL MVP has been dealing with tightness in his hamstring, several personal issues, and a carousel of starting quarterbacks. But none of that will stop Peterson from working hard and doing his best.
"“Just keep pressing, man,” Peterson said. “That’s all I can do is just keep practicing hard. Just try to clean up. Keep swinging. That’s all I can do.”"
Peterson was disappointed in his team’s offensive performance on Monday Night Football against the New York Giants. The Vikings offense was unable to score any points to help out a defensive unit that finally played somewhat well this season.
"“It was definitely tough sledding,” Peterson said. “We were just kind of out of whack. Those guys were bringing some stunts, doing a lot of movement up front. Nothing we haven’t seen before, but it kind of put us in an uncomfortable position and we struggled with that all night.”"
Sep 29, 2013; London, UNITED KINGDOM; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) during the NFL International Series game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Martin-USA TODAY Sports
Peterson’s statistics on Monday night were not what you’d expect from a player of his caliber. On 13 rushing attempts, he managed only 28 rushing yards. To put things in perspective, quarterback Josh Freeman threw the ball 53 times compared to Adrian’s 13 carries. And on many of those pass attempts, Freeman ended up on his butt from the Giants pass rush.
"“The one thing I’m going to stress is just being more physical as an offensive unit,” Peterson said. “We were more physical last year. And that’s one thing that stands out this year.”"