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The Minnesota Vikings are back in the top 15 of SB Nation's power rankings after their impressive home win over the Detroit Lions. The win snapped a two-game losing streak and pushed Minnesota to 6-4 on the season heading into their bye week. The victory largely came on the back of Adrian Peterson, the best running back in the league. The Vikings rusher had a miraculous early return from a torn ACL at the end of last season, and he only seems be to getting stronger each week. Thorman cites Peterson in his blurb on the No. 15 team in his Power Rankings:
15. Minnesota Vikings (LW: 13, 6-4): Everyone's saying it but I can't help say the same: Adrian Peterson is from another planet. 5.8 yards per attempt coming off ACL surgery. The guy just isn't real.
Peterson was somehow ready for Minnesota's season opener, but he really turned it on in the second half of October and appears to be his old self. He's rushed for more than 120 yards in his last four games.
If Christian Ponder can simply manage the offense under center, the combination of Peterson and an effective defense should carry the Vikings to a successful final six games. Despite their winning record, the Vikes are still in third place in the NFC North. They'll have an opportunity to prove themselves in the Division coming right out of the bye week, with a game against NFC North-leading Chicago set for Week 12.