Access Vikings morning walkthrough: Vikings bracing for the cold, sense of urgency for Peterson and more

The Vikings will get in their final practice before playing the Seahawks. Coach Mike Zimmer will speak with reporters afterward.

January 8, 2016 at 2:11PM

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

WHAT YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED

— The Vikings players are each preparing for Sunday's frigid playoff game a little differently, including one daydreaming about South Beach.

— Running back Adrian Peterson has a sense of urgency and a word of warning to Vikings youngsters who might take the playoffs for granted.

— With Peterson and nose tackle Linval Joseph expected to play against the Seahawks, backup nose tackle Kenrick Ellis is the only injury concern.

— However you want to describe him, Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson will be quite the challenge for the Vikings defense on Sunday.

— Cornerback Captain Munnerlyn will have a tough matchup on Sunday.

BEHIND ENEMY LINES

— Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett is dealing with a painful toe injury. But Bennett says there is no way he is missing Sunday's game.

— Seahawks outside linebacker Bruce Irvin says he hopes to rattle his buddy, quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, like he did back in December.

TODAY'S VIKINGS SCHEDULE

At 11 a.m., the Vikings will get in their final practice before playing the Seahawks. Coach Mike Zimmer will speak with reporters afterward.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

Peterson rushed for just 18 yards on eight carries the last time these two teams met, but he was actually fortunate to get that many. According to ESPN Stats and Information, 17 of his 18 yards came after first contact, so the Seahawks spent plenty of time in the backfield. The Vikings have to change that this time because they can't afford to fall behind and put the entire game on Bridgewater's shoulders. Not against that defense.

about the writer

about the writer

Matt Vensel

Reporter

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