The Minnesota Vikings did not have themselves a good Sunday. They lost in embarrassing fashion to the winless Detroit Lions, surrendering a last-second touchdown after taking the lead late in the fourth quarter. The 29-27 defeat will linger with them for the rest of the season, possibly longer.
Minnesota received more bad news after the game when injury was added to insult. Wide receiver Adam Thielen left the game in the first quarter after twisting his ankle. After the game, head coach Mike Zimmer announced that Thielen suffered a sprained ankle.
Vikings’ HC Mike Zimmer told reporters that WR Adam Thielen suffered a sprained ankle today.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 5, 2021
A timetable for Thielen's return, should he miss any time, has not yet been announced. This is a tough pill to swallow for the Vikings, who aren't yet far out of the playoff picture. Thielen leads the team in receiving touchdowns with 10 and is second, behind young star Justin Jefferson, in receiving yards (686) and catches (63).
Without Kirk Cousins' second receiver, Minnesota is going to need to recalibrate its offense. Thielen has been instrumental to the Vikings' offense for years now. They will have to lean more on Jefferson, Dalvin Cook and Tyler Conklin as they fight for a Wild Card spot.
Minnesota, at 5-7, is going to need to make a serious stand and redeem themselves from this loss in order to secure a playoff bid. Next up on the Vikings' schedule is the Pittsburgh Steelers.
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