Half of the Vikings' starting defensive backs are listed as doubtful heading into Sunday's game against the Packers and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who leads the NFL in passer rating (122.5), completion percentage (70.2), yards per attempt (9.76) and touchdowns (17).
Cornerback Antoine Winfield (neck) was limited again in practice but looks like he'll miss his third consecutive game. Meanwhile, strong safety Jamarca Sanford also is doubtful because he has yet to complete the third-party concussion exam that mandatory per NFL rules.
That's not a good way to go into a game against the Packers. Rodgers' 17 touchdowns have gone to six different players and averaged 30.8 yards per score.
"They do a lot of four- and five-wideout sets, more than most teams," coach Leslie Fraizer said. "You like to have all hands on deck, but the guys who are going to play are going to be ready to go. They're going to have to step up and play big for us."
Other highlights from today:
- Also listed as doubtful is center John Sullivan. He also hasn't completed his third-part concussion exam. He and Sanford will try to complete it on Saturday, but it's not looking good.
- Listed as probable after being limited in practice were RT Phil Loadholt (knee), receiver Percy Harvin (ribs), linebacker Kenny Onatolu (hamstring) and linebacker E.J. Henderson (knee). Guard Steve Hutchinson (knee) also is probable, but had full participation in practice.
- Although Loadholt is probable, Frazier declared him "good to go."
- If Sullivan and Sanford can't play, Joe Berger and Tyrell Johnson would start at center and strong safety, respectively. If Winfield sits out, Chris Cook would get his third consecutive start.
- Frazier said if Sanford can't play, rookie Mistral Raymond probably would be active for the first time this season.
- Frazier said Henderson didn't show as much "explosion" while covering the deep middle in his return to the nickel defense last week. Frazier said it's a "strong possibility" that Erin Henderson will go back to playing most of the reps at middle linebacker in the nickel.
