PLAY OF THE GAME
HAPPY RETURN
Score: Vikings led 14-7, 3:40 remaining in the third quarter.
Situation: Chicago had third-and-2 from its own 39.
The play: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (7), in shotgun formation, threw over the middle but missed a leaping Brandon Marshall (15). Harrison Smith intercepted at the Vikings 44 and returned it down the right sideline for a touchdown and a 21-14 lead.
THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT?
The Vikings started five rookies in a game Sunday, a team record. The five were safety Harrison Smith, cornerback Josh Robinson, tackle Matt Kalil, receiver Jarius Wright and fullback Rhett Ellison. They have started four rookies on four previous occasions -- last year against Detroit (Christian Ballard, Christian Ponder, Mistral Raymond, Kyle Rudolph); in 1985 (Chris Doleman, Issiac Holt, Kirk Lowdermilk, Tim Newton); in 1963 (Lee Calland, Paul Flatley, Terry Kosens, Ray Poage); and in 1962 (Jim Christopherson, Chuck Lamson, Steve Stonebreaker, Mick Tingelhoff).
MANO-A-MANO
Vikings RB Adrian Peterson vs. Bears LB Lance Briggs
WHO WON?
Peterson. He topped 100 yards rushing before the first quarter ended, giving the Vikings much-needed momentum. He finished with 154 yards and two touchdowns.
THE QUOTE
"We just went out to play ball and have fun."
-- Harrison Smith
