December 8th, 2011 
Russ Loede 
Posted in 
Minnesota Vikings superstar running back Adrian Peterson returned to practice Thursday on a limited basis, a big step toward healing from a sprained left ankle.
Peterson has missed the last two games with his injury, but he made significant strides in cutting and planting on his foot without pain.
“It was really encouraging to see some of the things he was able to do,” Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said. “He’s headed in the right direction, far more improved than he was a week ago.”
“He’s the ultimate competitor. He definitely wants to be in there. But when the time’s right he’ll be back,” right tackle Phil Loadholt said.
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For those of you who have been waiting patiently for the Handle to outline this week’s scrimmage I humbly present….
Minnesota +10 over DETROIT
Viking are beat up but this opponent is in a fragile state of its own after a tumultuous season that has Detroit facing public and league scrutiny over its undisciplined style of play. That type of distraction may be just enough for Minnesota to avenge an earlier 3-point loss in a game they bled by 23 points. It looks like Christian Ponder is a no go and that’s why this line is so high but it’s still inflated after Vike scored 30 and still lost to the Tebows.
Play: Minnesota +10½
And the remainder of the NFC North
Chicago +3½ over DENVER
Bronco stock is at its peak while Chicago continues to spiral. But don’t wise investors recommend selling high, buying low? The Tim Tebow saga has been nothing short of miraculous. However, this is first time that Denver is ask to spot points under Tebow’s guidance and that’s a commodity worth shorting.
Play: Chicago +3½
GREEN BAY –11 over Oakland
Raider are too banged up to field a competent team and after flying through three time zones with this makeshift line-up, to play in the cool confines of Lambeau, against the undefeated Packer. We wouldn’t be surprised if some of the Oakland players refuse to get off the airplane.
Play: Green Bay –11
I sure would love to see them win. I will definitely be watching & rooting for the Vikings!!!! Though I love watching AP tearing up the field – I sure hope he takes it easy. Do not want to risk him getting a serious injury that will affect next season. Hope Ponder is able to overcome his injury – that o-line needs to step up & do their job!!!!
LETS GO VIKINGS!!!!
Who cares? Why even play him or Ponder? Lets see what Toby and Joe Webb can do. Toby’s starting to play his game, positive chunks. They’re not going to make the play offs. They don’t need these guys to play hurt. Ponder needs to heal and write “I will not throw interceptions” 1000 times on the chalk board. Dennis Green would be such a better coach.
Hope all is well for ex Viking and Bronco players. But the Giants ruled this year. New England lost steam. Hopefully a Superbowl trip for the Bronco’s; we’re praying for Tebow next year!!!
Sure sounds like Joe Webb to start.
And AD will be a go.
If the draft started today would we have the second pick or third?