Vikes likely to have Sullivan vs. Saints; Griffin questionable

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Minnesota Vikings center John Sullivan is listed as probable for Thursday night's season opener in New Orleans, even though he has missed virtually all of preseason with a calf injury.

Sullivan was injured early in training camp and didn't play in any of the four preseason games. He practiced on a limited basis this week, and the Vikings said Wednesday that he was probable to play against the Saints.

That's a big break for the Vikings, who tried second-year pro Jon Cooper and veteran guard Anthony Herrera at center in Sullivan's absence to mediocre results.

Cornerback Cedric Griffin and rookie running back Toby Gerhart are questionable with knee injuries. Griffin said he feels ready to go after tearing an anterior cruciate ligament in the NFC title game against the Saints in January.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press