Access Vikings morning walkthrough: Defense close to full strength, Bridgewater sharp on third down

Every weekday, we walk you through what's going on with the Vikings.

WHAT YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED

— The Vikings defense showed off its depth against Chicago and Arizona, but is close to returning to full strength.

— Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is 16-for-18 passing on third down in the past two weeks and the efficiency is starting to pay off for the Vikings.

— The more snaps rookie defensive end Danielle Hunter takes, the more he proves the Vikings might have found something special. Matt Vensel's three takeaways from Sunday.

— The NFL will announce the Pro Bowl rosters tonight and the Vikings have several players that could have their name called.

BEHIND ENEMY LINES

— The Giants aren't unraveling, they have been lost since the first day of the season.

— The Giants are still alive in the playoff race, but could be eliminated before they take the field on Sunday at TCF Bank Stadium.

TODAY'S VIKINGS SCHEDULE

Players have the day off and will be back at Winter Park on Wednesday. Away from the field, Vikings injured center John Sullivan and several teammates will host an early holiday party for young patients and their families at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospital.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT