The Minnesota Vikings need to make the playoffs if the team is to get running back Adrian Peterson back on the field.
Peterson, who only appeared in two games this year, suggested as much in a recent interview. With the season winding down, he has his eyes set on the playoffs.
Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press captured his thoughts on the matter:
Adrian Peterson on return. Green Bay Dec. 24?: “Obviously, if we lose two games, we’re out. So we’ll just play it by ear.’’
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) December 7, 2016
Adrian Peterson: "I’m thinking that we’re going to make the playoffs so that’s what I’m keeping my mind set on.''
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) December 7, 2016
This is easier said than done for the 6-6 Vikings. The team sits second in the NFC North, but has lost two games in a row and six of its last seven.
To be fair, the last two games have been rough against elite opponents such as the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys. The Vikings lost both games by a combined five points.
Simply put, the Minnesota offense and quarterback Sam Bradford can’t be as effective as it needs to be without Peterson on the field. The good news? The Vikings have two potential wins on their schedule over the next two weeks in games against the Jacksonville Jaguars and Indianapolis Colts.
If the Vikings can win those, Peterson might just return in time to save the team and perhaps make an unexpected playoff push. But it’s a big “if.”
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