Steve Hutchinson is about as tough as they come. Thus, the Vikings Pro Bowl left guard isn't about to begin discussing how he feels with anyone.

But because Hutchinson has missed some practice time this season due to an issue with his back, his condition has been noted on the injury report on occasion. It also has been discussed by some people around the Vikings that Hutchinson isn't at 100 percent.

But offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said Thursday that he feels Hutchinson is feeling good -- or as good as an NFL player can feel -- entering the second half of the season. The Vikings bye week certainly did not hurt matters.

"I think Hutch is back," Bevell said. "I think that he is physically where he needs to be and ready to go. All of these guys obviously have bumps and bruises, but I don't think that there is anything major wrong with him."