DETROIT – The snakebit Vikings offensive line lost two more players to injury during a 16-13 Thanksgiving Day loss to the Lions.
First, center Joe Berger left because of a concussion in the first half, and Nick Easton came in for him. Then right tackle Jeremiah Sirles limped off the field because of a hip injury during the fourth quarter. Berger is in the concussion protocol, while Sirles, who was unable to return, is hopeful he won't be out long.
"I'm hoping it's nothing serious," Sirles said.
Rookie Willie Beavers, a fourth-round pick from Western Michigan whom the Vikings initially cut after training camp, replaced Sirles for the remainder of the game and became the sixth Vikings offensive tackle to see playing time this season.
"Sometimes I don't have words for it," left guard Alex Boone said. "But proud of Nick the way he stepped up. Willie came in when two guys went down, next-man-up mentality. Guys have proven they can play in this league and want to play in this league. I hope Joe and Sirles are OK, but now it's on to Dallas."
The Vikings already were starting two backup tackles in T.J. Clemmings and Sirles. Sam Bradford was not sacked, but he averaged only 6.1 yards per pass behind a game plan that aimed to get the ball out as quickly as possible.
Berger had been the only Vikings offensive lineman to play every snap this season.
Beavers is the 10th offensive lineman overall to see extended playing time through 11 games. The rookie could be in line to start, depending on Sirles' health.