Peterson: starting or sitting? Vikings vs. Bears round 1

The big story this week for the Vikings is whether or not star running back Adrian Peterson will play against the division rival Chicago Bears. The Chicago Tribune ran a story on the cover of its sports section titled "No Adrian? Bears not buying it". The article says "[saying] Peterson won't play is like saying Charlie Weis will coach Notre Dame for the next five years." There is no stopping Peterson from starting.

ESPN's Madden '10 simulation has the Vikings winning 34-19, which is somewhat realistic. However, in the simulation, many factors are unrealistic including: Forte rushes 21 times for 99 yards, Ryan Longwell misses a 47 yarder and Favre only passes for 249 yards and 2 TD's.

The Bears defense gives up on average, 122.3 yards per game on the ground. This gives Peterson a great chance to break out with a huge game. If he weren't sick, I would say he gets more than 200, but, as it is he will get 150+. The Bears defense has been very stringent against the pass so far this year, ranking 8th in the NFL this year. Despite this fact, Favre will throw for 200+ and 4 TD's again.

The Vikings defense will absolutely crush the Bears terrible offense this week keeping forte under 50 yards, picking Cutler at least twice and generally dominating the game.

The high powered Vikings will seal the Bears fate of missing the playoffs with a stunning 45-14 blowout this week. Skol Vikings!