The injury report for the Minnesota Vikings is exceptionally short for Week 14 when they host the Detroit Lions on Sunday, Dec. 8.
The Minnesota Vikings hope to keep their playoff aspirations alive as they look to shake off a loss to the Seattle Seahawks by defeating the Detroit Lions in front of an ocean of purple and gold in U.S. Bank Stadium in Week 14.
Coming into this week, there have been some banged-up players, but having a late bye week has helped the team be healthier for the final stretch of the regular season. Still, there are some players who could miss this game against the Lions.
Here is a list of the players whose status for Week 14 is up in the air as shared on the official website of the purple and gold:
Minnesota Vikings
RULED OUT
- – none –
DOUBTFUL
- Adam Thielen, wide receiver – hamstring
QUESTIONABLE
- Riley Reiff, offensive tackle – concussion
Last week, Thielen was listed as questionable. This week, he has moved down the list to doubtful. It’s not a good sign to see him be downgraded and fans should probably expect him to be on the sidelines instead of taking on the Lions.
Meanwhile, Rashod Hill will likely see the start at left tackle if Reiff is still dealing with the effects of his concussion. Hill would fill in well at the spot, especially after seeing him hold his own when plugged in against the Seahawks last week.
The best news is that Dalvin Cook is nowhere to be found among the designated players. He was a full participant in Friday’s practice after being limited earlier in the week and should be good to go for this game.
Detroit Lions
RULED OUT
- Da’Shawn Hand, defensive line – ankle
- Matthew Stafford, quarterback – hip/back
DOUBTFUL
- Austin Bryant, defensive end – hip
QUESTIONABLE
- Jamal Agnew, cornerback – ankle
- Rashaan Melvin, cornerback – ribs
While there are five names on this list, many of them shouldn’t have much of an impact on the game other than Stafford, who is dealing with a seemingly serious injury to his back and hip. Minnesota will deal with David Blough, the backup who looked impressive last week. And if something happens to Blough, there is a chance Kyle Sloter could take the field.
Otherwise, it is backup or rotational players who are on the final injury report for the Lions. The Vikings should expect a heavy dose of the run game of Detroit in this contest to make things easier on Blough. Hopefully, the Vikings pass defense will tighten up for this game.
The Detroit Lions are already eliminated from playoff contention but that doesn’t mean they won’t be giving their all against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 14. Expect the “Motor City Kitties” to give it all they have to prove they are a team that has to be taken seriously, no matter what.