Minnesota Vikings injuries: Adrian Peterson, Jared Allen held out of practice

If the Minnesota Vikings defeat the Green Bay Packers in Week 17, they will clinch a playoff berth for the first time since 2009 -- when Brett Favre was the team's quarterback.

It comes as no surprise that the Vikings are playing it safe with two of their best players, as neither Adrian Peterson nor Jared Allen participated in Minnesota's Wednesday practice, as the Vikings prepare to take on the Packers.

Peterson was held out of practice because of sore abdominal muscles, but the MVP candidate will certainly take the field in Week 17. Peterson needs just 208 rushing yards to break Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record.

Allen missed Minnesota's practice because of an illness, but is also nursing a shoulder injury. Like Peterson, Allen will almost certainly suit up in Week 17.

Cornerback Antoine Winfield also missed practice. Winfield has a fractured hand, but is expected to play on Sunday.

Defensive end Brian Robison was limited in practice with a sprained AC joint.