In the aftermath of a challenging Week 14 encounter with the Las Vegas Raiders, the Minnesota Vikings face further setbacks as they prepare to take on the Cincinnati Bengals in a primetime matchup on Saturday, December 16. The team announced that starting running back Alexander Mattison and Pro Bowl left tackle Brian O’Neill will be sidelined for the upcoming game due to ankle injuries suffered in the Raiders clash. Wide receiver Jalen Nailor remains in concussion protocol, and his availability is ruled out, while star wide receiver Justin Jefferson is listed as questionable with a chest injury.
Brian O’Neill, the Vikings’ second-highest paid player on a lucrative five-year, $92.5 million deal, has been a valuable asset to the offensive line. Mattison, who signed a two-year, $7 million deal to assume the lead back role this season, will also be absent. These injuries pose a significant challenge for the Vikings, who currently hold the No. 6 seed in the NFC playoffs with a 72% chance of making the postseason, according to NFL.com. The Bengals, also boasting a 7-6 record, present a formidable opponent in the playoff race.
Despite the setbacks, star wide receiver Justin Jefferson is determined to make a comeback after a seven-week stint on injured reserve. His anticipated return adds a crucial dimension to the Vikings’ offensive firepower. Jefferson’s return holds particular significance as he looks forward to facing off against his former LSU running mate, Bengals star Ja’Marr Chase.
Chase, while acknowledging his friendship with Jefferson, maintains a focused approach as both teams vie for playoff spots in the final stretch of the season. The matchup is expected to be intense, with Chase acknowledging Jefferson’s exceptional skills and expressing mutual respect for his fellow receiver.
Adding an intriguing layer to the game, both the Vikings and Bengals find themselves navigating the challenges of losing their starting quarterbacks midseason. Minnesota has coped well without Kirk Cousins, going 3-2 since his injury, while Cincinnati has adapted to the absence of Joe Burrow, who was placed on injured reserve with a wrist injury. Former Vikings backup Jake Browning has stepped up for the Bengals, leading the team to back-to-back 34-point wins.
For the Vikings, the quarterback situation remains in flux, with Nick Mullens named as the starter for the upcoming game. Mullens is the fourth quarterback to start for Minnesota this season, aiming to provide stability and contribute to the team’s playoff aspirations. As the Vikings and Bengals clash in a battle of backup quarterbacks, the outcome of this matchup will significantly influence the playoff landscape for both teams.
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