EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Ordinarily there would have been plenty of focus on the health of center John Sullivan, who suffered an injury to his left calf in the Vikings' 24-10 victory over Detroit on Sept. 26.

However, there have been a few other story lines that have knocked Sullivan's injury out of the spotlight. Brett Favre and the "sexting" situation. Favre and his aching throwing elbow. The trade for Randy Moss. You know, just small stuff.

Anyway, the reality is that it appears almost certain that Ryan Cook will make his first career start at center tonight against the Jets. Cook replaced Sullivan against the Lions and played well. He was a center in college at New Mexico but had played mainly right tackle for the Vikings.

Cook will have his hands full tonight with nose tackle Sione Pouha and the Jets promise to bring plenty of pressure on Favre throughout the game. Cook also will be responsible for developing a chemistry with Favre on the exchange. It's just one more obstacle the Vikings will face.