The sprained ankle gods have shown mercy on the Minnesota Vikings this week.
Both quarterback Teddy Bridgewater and safety Harrison Smith, arguably the team's two most important players, are active for today's game against the Detroit Lions at TCF Bank Stadium. We knew Bridgewater was going to play. Smith was questionable heading into the game, but he'll start.
The sprained ankle gods were not kind to the visitors. The Lions will be without star receiver Calvin Johnson, who has seven career touchdowns versus the Vikings, and running back Reggie Bush.
Back to the Vikings, outside linebacker Chad Greenway is inactive and will miss his third straight start. He was listed as doubtful on Friday as he slowly works his way back from his broken ribs.
Also inactive for the Vikings are fullback Zach Line, outside linebacker Brandon Watts, guards David Yankey and Austin Wentworth, defensive end Scott Crichton and tight end Kyle Rudolph.
