Quick Take: Vikings/Bears

Published: Dec 22, 2009 at 12:50 PM

In Brief

» Last meeting: Brett Favre passed for 392 yards and three touchdowns to lead the Vikings past the Bears, 36-10, in Week 12.
» Streaks: The Vikings have won four of the last five meetings and have a 52-43-2 overall series edge, including the playoffs.
» Last week: Minnesota was trounced by host Carolina, 26-7. ... Chicago was embarrassed by Baltimore, 31-7.

Keep your eye on ...The drama between Brad Childress and Favre: Much has been made of Favre's revelation after the Panthers game that he rejected a suggestion by Childress to sit out the fourth quarter. That friction can be easily squashed by a blowout win over the Bears.

Adrian Peterson's production: Minnesota's Pro Bowl running back is enduring one of the biggest slumps of his three-year career. He hasn't rushed for 100 yards since Week 10 and has averaged just 3.1 yards per carry over that stretch. He traditionally plays well against Chicago, so this could be the week he breaks out.

Lovie Smith's last stand: The Bears' embattled coach could be in trouble after the season, and if his team keeps playing like it has recently, that may seal his fate. A big win over the rival Vikings, however, could help his cause tremendously.

Did you know?

Favre has thrown a career-low seven interceptions this season (not counting his rookie year, in which he did not start a game). ... Peterson is tied for the league lead with 15 touchdowns. ... Bears QB Jay Cutler leads the league with 25 interceptions. ... If the playoffs started today, the Vikings would be the NFC's second seed (the Bears have been eliminated). Get an updated look at the postseason picture.

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