Written by Chris Tomasson at TwinCities.com
Adrian Peterson’s return didn’t exactly inspire the Vikings.
The running back was in the starting lineup Sunday for the first time since suffering a torn meniscus in his right knee in Week 2. So what happened? The Vikings were humiliated 34-6 by Indianapolis at U.S. Bank Stadium, and their playoff hopes are all but dead.
“It drives you nuts,’’ said guard Alex Boone. “AP back, you expect a big game. We didn’t hold up our end of the bargain, and now we’re sitting here pissed as hell.’’
The Vikings (7-7) have reason to be. They’re on the verge of becoming just the sixth NFL team since 1990 to start a season 5-0 and not make the playoffs.
While their season in general has been collapsing, Sunday marked a total collapse. The offense didn’t manage a touchdown and got just 22 yards on six carries from Peterson. The defense, which came in ranked first in the NFL in points allowed and second in total defense, was ground to shreds.
“This was definitely embarrassing,’’ said cornerback Captain Munnerlyn. “I’m definitely surprised. I really can’t put into words how I feel right now. We just didn’t play well.’’
The loss eliminates the Vikings from contention in the NFC North. With Dallas beating Tampa Bay on Sunday night, that at least keeps them barely alive for the final NFC wild-card berth entering Saturday’s game at Green Bay.
To get it, they must win their final two games, have the Buccaneers (8-6) lose their final two and have Washington (7-5-1) drop two of its last three. They also then can’t finish in a three-way division tie with the Packers and Detroit, which Green Bay would end up winning.
To continue reading this article, click here.
