Intentional Grounding: 'Hey, No Pressure, No Penalty'

VIDEO: Matt Prater Kicks Game-Winning Field Goal Vs. Minnesota Vikings

All the Denver Broncos do is win -- since the bye week. And since Tim Tebow took over as the starting quarterback. And since the defense turned a corner. That's why the Broncos were in position to kick this game-winning field goal as time expired against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday afternoon.

This field goal was set up by an Andre Goodman interception of Christian Ponder at about 1:30 left in the game. Lance Ball then ran the ball several times to run the clock down and create the opportunity for this field goal. Maybe all Matt Prater does is win.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.-

Broncos Vs. Vikings Final Score: Tebow Time Strikes Again, But Andre Goodman Instrumental In 35-32 Victory

The Denver Broncos pulled off another later victory. Call it what you want, Tebow Time, clutchiness, whatever. The Broncos defeated the Minnesota Vikings, 35-32, with a 23-yard field goal.

While Tim Tebow certainly played a key role in this game, Andre Goodman came up with an interception after the two-minute warning. Christian Ponder, who set a Vikings rookie record with 381 passing yards, saw Goodman take the pass at Minnesota's 35-yard line and returned it to Minnesota's 15-yard line. Lance Ball kept running the ball up the middle before Matt Prater kicked the 23-yard field goal.

Tebow did show improvement as a passer in this game, completing 10-of-15 passes for 202 yards and two touchdowns. He and Demaryius Thomas connected for both scores and, overall, for four catches and 144 yards. The two non-touchdown catches helped set up later touchdowns.

Willis McGahee had his sixth 100-yard running game by picking up 111 yards and one touchdown. He helped lead the Broncos to many of the team's 12 first downs in the second half (the team had just one in the entire first half).

The Vikings wore out the Denver defense by controlling the ball for 37:51 to the Broncos' 22:09. But the Miller-less Broncos defense was able to stand strong at key times and came up with not only the late interception but also a Mario Haggan pick-six of ponder in the first quarter.

Percy Harvin had a field day against the secondary by catching eight passes for 156 yards and two touchdown receptions for the Vikings.

The Broncos are now 7-5 and tied for first-place in the AFC West with the Oakland Raiders, who lost to the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. The Broncos play the Chicago Bears next Sunday.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Eddie Royal Injury Update: Broncos WR Suffers Injury On Punt

The Denver Broncos lost a key offensive weapon on Sunday, as wide receiver Eddie Royal sustained a neck injury while attempting to return a punt against the Minnesota Vikings. Royal, also a punt returner for the team, collided with fellow Broncos player Matthew Willis on the play and fell to the ground. The team has since announced that Royal hurt his neck on the play, but he's questionable to return for the remainder of the game. 

His services could certainly be in use, though, as the Broncos are tied 29-29 with the Vikings following a recent Tim Tebow touchdown run. Tebow's been unusually effective with the pass today, going 8-for-11 for 150 yards and two touchdowns, although Royal only caught one pass for seven yards before going down. For now, the focus of the team's passing offense will continue to be on Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Vikings Score: Denver, Minnesota Exchange Touchdowns In 4th Quarter

Every time the Denver Broncos close the gap with the Minnesota Vikings, it never lasts for too long. After doing that in the third quarter, the Broncos found themselves losing to the Vikings, 29-21, in the fourth quarter. But, as expected, Tebow and company found the end zone again and then tied it at 29.

The Vikings scored on a Percy Harvin 48-yard touchdown reception. Tim Tebow struck on the next drive. He found Demaryius Thomas for a 42-yard gain. With 24 yards left to go, Tebow handed off to Willis McGahee on the very next play. McGahee went over 100 yards on the play and scored the touchdown.

Instead of kicking the extra point, the Broncos had Tebow run the ball into the end zone for the two-point conversion and the tie at 29-all. Eight minutes remain in the game.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

VIDEO: Tim Tebow Finds Demaryius Thomas For 2nd TD Pass

The Denver Broncos had closed the Minnesota Vikings' lead to just one point, 15-14, early in the third quarter. Then the Vikings had come up with another touchdown. Yet, the Broncos weren't going to let that go unanswered. Tim Tebow found Demaryius Thomas for a second time on a wacky play, making the game in favor of the Vikings, 22-21.

The Vikings scored a touchdown on a 52-yard pass to Percy Harvin, who pushed Chris Harris to the ground to make the reception before running up half the field. Quan Cosby returned the kickoff to the Vikings' 41-yard line. Tebow took the exchange and then faked a hand off to the running back. He then had to escape to his left out of the pocket. He made it all the way to the sideline before he made an awkward throw to a wide open Demaryius Thomas, who stayed with the play the entire time. Thomas made his way into the end zone for the score and the 22-21 score.

And here's video of Harvin's touchdown reception:

Maybe Harris slipped on the play, but just a bit. We can clearly see that Harvin did have a bit of push there.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Vikings Score: Tim Tebow Connects With Demaryius Thomas For TD Pass

On the first rive of the second half, the Denver Broncos had more first downs than they did in all of the first half, 4-1. And that all resulted in the Broncos making it a one-point game in favor of the Minnesota Vikings, 15-14, after a touchdown pass.

Tim Tebow started the drive with a 17-yard pass to Eric Decker from his own 22-yard line. McGahee then had runs of 11, 14 and 9 yards to put the ball on Minnesota's 27-yard line. Several plays later on 3rd-and-9, Tebow found an open Demaryius Thomas for the touchdown. That was Tebow's ninth touchdown pass of the season.

The team opted to go for the extra point instead of the two-point conversion. With the game so early into the second half, there was no need to leave points on the field if the two-point conversion failed.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Vikings Halftime Score: Denver Losing To Minnesota, 15-7; Tim Tebow Likes This Situation

The Denver Broncos are losing to the Minnesota Vikings at halftime, 15-7. This is exactly the situation Tim Tebow wants his Denver Broncos to be in. Now he has the chance to perform his best at the times that matter the most.

But he's going to need a huge step up in the second half to do it. He was 4-of-6 passing for 29 yards while rushing twice for eight yards. He also was sacked by Jared Allen late in the quarter, which led to a fumble that was recovered by the Vikings. That led to Ryan Longwell's field goal at the end of the half.

It's been a sloppy offensive game for the Broncos. Allen had a safety on Willis McGahee early in the game, and McGahee later had a fumble. Overall, the Broncos have 48 total yards to the Vikings' 214. The Broncos didn't get a first down until the second quarter.

Surely, it's Tebow Time for the Broncos in the second half, right?

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

VIDEO: Minnesota Takes 12-7 Lead On Kyle Rudolph TD Grab

The Denver Broncos and the Minnesota Vikings are playing something that resembles a football game, but it isn't quite the genuine thing yet. The Minnesota Vikings, though, did take a 12-7 lead with about 3:30 left on the clock.

Minnesota started the scoring drive on its own four-yard line and kept advancing up the field on key passes from Christian Ponder to Devin Aromashodu. Toby Gerhart had two rushes for a combined 30 yard on the drive. But it was Ponder's throw to Kyle Rudolph that resulted in a touchdown.

Ponder throws to Rudolph with plenty of coverage around him. However, Rudolph is able to grab the ball over the heads of the defenders. He comes down in the end zone with possession before the ball is knocked out of his hands. The play was reviewed and upheld.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Vikings Score Update: Minnesota Cuts Deficit Against Denver To 7-5

The Denver Broncos offense has barely been on the field yet during their game against the Minnesota Vikings, and when it has things just haven't been great. It started with a safety when Willis McGahee was tackled by Jared Allen in the end zone. Then the Broncos failed to make anything meaningful out of a Christian Ponder forced fumble on the next drive. The latest offensive drive just showed how sloppy and how much of a bad start this offense is off to.

Willis McGahee, upon review by officials, was ruled to have fumbled the ball before his knee hit the ground. The Vikings gained possession, but they had to settle for a field goal and a 7-5 deficit. The Broncos then finished out the first half without a first down.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Vikings Score: Mario Haggan Pick-Sixes Christian Ponder For 7-2 Lead

Sure, the Denver Broncos don't have rookie linebacker Von Miller playing today, but his replacement, Mario Haggan, has already had a big impact. After Britton Colquitt pinned the Minnesota Vikings deep inside its own territoriy, Christian Ponder attempted a pass. However, Haggan used his instincts and came up with an interception. He then ran it into the end zone for the 6-2 lead that turned into seven points with the extra point.

That was Haggan's first career interception and touchdown, according to the Denver Broncos' official Twitter feed.

The Broncos hadn't been able to do anything on their offensive drives before that defensive score. The first resulted in a safety and then a Christian Ponder fumble recovered by the Broncos resulted in the punt that came right before the interception.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Vikings Score Update: Minnesota Strikes Early With Safety

The Minnesota Vikings might have had the best play of the weekend -- and it came on a punt. Chris Kluwe punted the ball for the Vikings and his teammates were able to down it at the one-inch line. On the first play the Broncos ran, the Vikings picked up a safety and the 2-0 lead.

Jared Allen had great penetration into the end zone and was able to wrap up Willis McGahee before he could escape past the goal line. It was just a great all-around series of plays by the Vikings there, as well as a bit of bad play calling. McGahee was five yards deep into the end zone.

The Broncos defense, playing without Von Miller, were able to keep the Vikings offense from doing anything during the opening drive of the game. The punt and safety might just be flukes.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Minnesota Vikings Inactives: Adrian Peterson, CBs Asher Allen, Chris Cook Out Vs. Broncos

Denver Broncos QB Tim Tebow's struggles in the passing game have been well documented, but with the Vikings missing three key cornerbacks in Sunday's match up, maybe Tebow will finally light it up through the air. Star Vikings CB Antoine Winfield is already out for the season with a broken clavicle, and vs. Denver the Vikings will also be without Asher Allen and Chris Cook in the secondary. Benny Sapp, who is back with the Vikings in 2011 after a stint with the Miami Dolphins, will fill in for Allen at corner.

The Vikings will also be without RB Adrian Petersen, whose high ankle sprain will keep him out for a second straight game. Starting in his place will be ex-Stanford Cardinal Toby Gerhart. Here is the full inactive list for Week 13:

• CB Asher Allen
• CB Chris Cook
• OL Brandon Fusco
• OL DeMarcus Love
• RB Adrian Peterson
• DE D'Aundre Reed
• S Andrew Sendejo

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Inactives: Von Miller, Rahim Moore Will Not Play

The Denver Broncos will be without star LB Von Miller on Sunday vs. the Minnesota Vikings. Miller, who many expect to win Defensive Rookie of the Year, will miss the Week 13 match up due to a thumb injury sustained last week. MIller will be replaced by LB Mario Haggan, who despite being demoted to second string this season, started 16 games for the Broncos in both the 2010 and 2011 seasons.

Also out for the Broncos is safety Rahim Moore, who was a second round pick of the Broncos in 2011. Here is the full inactives list for Week 13:

• T Tony Hillis
• FB Quinn Johnson
• LB Von Miller
• LB Mike Mohammed
• S Rahim Moore
• G Manny Ramirez
• T Julius Thomas

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Eddie Royal Injury Update: Broncos WR Will Play In Week 13

Despite struggling with a toe and an ankle injury this week, Denver Broncos WR Eddie Royal will play on Sunday vs. the Minnesota Vikings, according to the Denver Post. Royal, who injured himself returning a kick in Week 12 vs. the San Diego Chargers, missed two practices this week, but was deemed healthy enough to play about 90 minutes before kick off.

It's been a tough year for Royal, who only has 146 yards and one touchdown on the season, and has not seemed to strike up much of an on-field chemistry with Broncos QB Tim Tebow. That said, Royal remains dynamic on special teams, and with the Broncos offense struggling at times to move the ball, his role in the return game remains as important as ever.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Von Miller Injury Update: Denver Broncos LB Out Vs. Vikings

It was a game time decision, but the decision has been made: Broncos DE Von Miller will not play Sunday vs. the Minnesota Vikings. Miller has been fighting a thumb injury all week, and despite his desire to start in Week 13, the Broncos training staff was reportedly worried about potential infections, amongst other things.

Miller, who has 11 sacks in 11 games, which is good for third in the NFL and first amongst rookies, missed practice this past Wednesday, but did return on Friday, and many expected that he would take the field on Sunday. With Miller out, the onus falls on the rest of the Denver pass rush, especially Elvis Dumerville, to pressure Vikings rookie QB Christian Ponder.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Vikings: Percy Harvin Will Play, According To Report

Despite being listed as questionable with an illness on the Minnesota Vikings' latest injury report, Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio is reporting that Percy Harvin will take the field on Sunday vs. the Denver Broncos. Harvin missed practice on Friday, and has had a history of missing both practices and games due to migraines, though Florio's source says that Harvin's current illness is unrelated to his migraine issues.

Harvin is coming off his best game of the 2011 season. In last week's 24-14 loss to the Atlanta Falcons, Harvin had 95 yards receiving and a touchdown, and he also returned a kick off 104 yards before being tackled just outside of the end zone.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Vikings: Game Time, TV Schedule, Radio Streaming And More

This Sunday, the Denver Broncos (6-5) travel to Mall of America Field and take on the struggling Minnesota Vikings (2-9) for their first game of December.

The Vikings, losers of the last three games, will play host to Tim Tebow and the Broncos who have won five of their last six games and catapulted themselves into the 2011 NFL Playoffs discussion. The Broncos have not scored more than 17 points in their last three games, yet will face a Vikings defense that has allowed 21 or more points in all but one game this season (their 34-10 win against the Arizona Cardinals).

Also a key facet to the game: The Vikings sport a league-worst 9.4% sack rate. A healthy pass rush from Elvis Dumervil and Von Miller could create major trouble for rookie quarterback Christian Ponder.

Game Time: 11:00 a.m. MT, Sunday, Dec. 4

TV: FOX

TV Distribution Map: The506.com

Radio: Sirius 125, 112

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Injury Report, Week 13: Von Miller, Eddie Royal Questionable

The latest incarnation of the Denver Broncos injury report appears rather promising for the Broncos' game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday:

Questionable

LB Von Miller
WR Eddie Royal

Probable

TE Daniel Fells
RB Willis McGahee
LT Ryan Clady
FS David Bruton

Von Miller, a strong candidate for the defensive rookie of the year award, returned to practice on Friday and appears poised to make his 12th start of the 2011 NFL season. Miller leads the team with 10.5 sacks and has been a force for the Broncos defense since being drafted No. 2 overall in the 2011 NFL Draft.

Eddie Royal, dealing with a toe injury, has started only 7 games this years, accruing only 146 receiving yards and 1 touchdown all season.

Fourth-year offensive tackle Ryan Clady is working to stay in the starting lineup with a knee injury. He has not missed any games yet this season.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Minnesota Vikings Injury Report, Week 13: Adrian Peterson Ruled Out, Percy Harvin Misses Practice

For the second straight day, the Minnesota Vikings were without two of their big play makers in practice. The offensive keystone, RB Adrian Peterson, continues to miss time with an ankle injury and, according to NFL.com, the Vikes have ruled out their top running back for Denver Broncos game. Peterson currently leads the Vikings with 872 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns.

And, in a surprise turn, the Vikings have suddenly listed WR Percy Harvin as questionable for the Broncos game. Harvin missed practice on Friday after practicing all week prior to Friday. He currently leads the Vikings with 554 receiving yards.

Returning to practice today, starting middle LB E.J. Henderson has been nursing his ailing shoulder after missing practice on Wednesday and Thursday, but should play Sunday.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2011 NFL Pro Bowl: Tim Tebow 4th Among AFC Quarterbacks

After leading the Broncos to a winning record in the 2011 regular season, Tim Tebow may now have a chance for a postseason, Pro Bowl showing.

Von Miller Injury Update: Denver Broncos LB Practicing, Could Still Play Sunday

The official Twitter account of the Denver Broncos announced some great news for Broncos fans on Friday afternoon:

Von Miller, who is struggling with a thumb injury this week, did not participate in practice on Wednesday. The outstanding rookie has started every game this year for the Broncos and has totaled an impressive 10.5 sacks through the first 11 games.

The No. 2 overall pick out of Texas A&M won the Butkis Award in college -- the most prestigious award for outstanding linebackers -- and he has since continued his streak of excellence in the NFL. Miller is tied for second on the team with 57 tackles and has also caused 2 fumbles and deflected 4 passes.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

NFL Picks And Predictions, Week 13: Denver Broncos Picked To Win By AOL Sporting News

SB Nation Denver continues the tour around the web for expert picks on the Week 13 matchup between the Denver Broncos and the Minnesota Vikings. Vinnie Iyer of AOL Sporting News has released his picks for this week, and here is what he has to say about the Broncos:

A week after the Florida-Florida State game, Tim Tebow and Christian Ponder renew the rivalry, only with former Gators super-cog Percy Harvin working with Ponder now. It's still unclear if Ponder will have the use of a healthy Adrian Peterson, which would help limit the pass-rushing opportunities for fellow rookie Von Miller. Stop if you've heard this before: The Vikings will build like a 10-3 lead early, have a smaller lead in the fourth quarter, right before Tebow kicks it into high gear with his running and one or two completed passes that find the end zone. Broncos 20, Vikings 17.

As for other AFC West teams, Iyer has taken:

• The Oakland Raiders to edge out the Miami Dolphins on the road, 24-23.
• The Kansas City Chiefs to fall to the Chicago Bears on the road, 20-13.
• The San Diego Chargers to beat the Jacksonville Jaguars on the road, 20-16

Iyer is 118-58 for the year-to-date, and went 12-4 straight up in Week 12.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

NFL Picks And Predictions, Week 13: ESPN Split, 5-5, Over Denver Broncos Vs. Minnesota Vikings

More picks and predictions for Week 13 in the NFL have come out and maybe there's something I'm missing about this week's Denver Broncos game against the Minnesota Vikings. Take for instance ESPN's panel of 10 selectors. The five choose the Broncos and the other five choose the Vikings.

The Broncos are 6-5 overall and 5-1 since Tim Tebow took over as the starting quarterback. The Vikings are 2-9 and have those wins against the Arizona Cardinals and the Carolina Panthers, hardly paragons of football excellence. Throw in the possible absence of running back Adrian Peterson and the Vikings are going to have an even tougher task.

Of course, one possible explanation is that those five who chose the Vikings just aren't buying into Tim Tebow still. But, remember, Merril Hoge is one of the ten panelists, so he does have something against Tebow.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Minnesota Vikings Injury Report, Week 13: Adrian Peterson Misses Practice

Vikings running back Adrian Peterson missed another practice on Thursday with an ankle injury. Peterson injured the ankle against the Oakland Raiders in Week 11 and was not able to play against the Atlanta Falcons last Sunday. His status for Minnesota's game against the Broncos may not be known until Saturday.

Other updates from Minnesota's Thursday injury report: linebacker Erin Henderson, safety Jamarca Sanford and tight end Visanthe Shiancoe fully participated in practice. Cornerback Asher Allen, guard Anthony Herrera and tight end Kyle Rudolph were limited. Linebacker E.J. Henderson did not participate, and cornerback Chris Cook is out for Sunday's game.

Defensive end Jared Allen skipped practice while dealing with a "personal family matter," head coach Leslie Frazier said.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Injury Report, Week 13: Von Miller Held Out; Willis McGahee, Eddie Royal Limited

There's good news in the Thursday injury report from the Broncos, as running back Willis McGahee and wide receiver Eddie Royal were able to return to practice after missing Wednesday's workouts, though both players were limited. McGahee has been battling illness, while Royal has a toe injury.

Safety David Bruton, offensive tackle Ryan Clady and tight end Daniel Fells fully participated on Thursday, while linebacker Von Miller was held out of practice once again. Miller is still recovering from Wednesday's thumb surgery and may not be able to play against Minnesota this weekend, though he intends to give it a shot. Fortunately for Miller and the team, the injury may not force him to miss more than a week of action, if he indeed does sit out the Vikings game.

For more updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Donovan McNabb Released By Minnesota Vikings Days Before Game Against Denver Broncos

Kyle Orton is the only quarterback to get his release weeks after losing the team's starting quarterback position. The Minnesota Vikings announced on Thursday afternoon that Donovan McNabb was granted his release and sent to the waiver wire.

Like Orton, McNabb started the season as a starting quarterback, but his and the team's struggles brought an early end to a shot at the playoffs. He was benched for rookie Christian Ponder and has served as a backup since October.

And since the Chicago Bears were unable to get Kyle Orton, they might want to put in a waiver claim for McNabb. But this time they'll just need to wait out the Houston Texans, who lost Matt Leinart to a shoulder injury. T.J. Yates is the starting quarterback right now even with Jake Delhomme recently signed.

Of course, McNabb could just as easily pass through waivers unclaimed, which might just mark the closing of his NFL career.

For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Adrian Peterson Injury Update: Minnesota Vikings RB Not Practicing, Decision Expected Saturday

According to @VikingNow, a St. Paul Pioneer Press Twitter account, Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson did not practice today and does not anticipate knowing whether he can play in Week 13 until Saturday.

The Vikings (2-9) lost Peterson to an ankle injury in their Week 11 loss to the Oakland Raiders, and though he is running on the ankle now, he appears likely to miss the Vikings' Week 13 matchup against the Denver Broncos.

Peterson, who leads the team with 872 rushing yards and a strong 4.7 yards per carry average, did not play last week against the Atlanta Falcons. Second-year running back Toby Gerhart started in place of Peterson, rushing for only 44 yards and receiving another 19.

On his career, Gerhart has average 4.0 yards per carry but has only started three NFL games.

For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Injury Update: Willis McGahee, Eddie Royal Back In Practice

The official Denver Broncos twitter account has announced that running back Willis McGahee and wide receiver Eddie Royal both participated in practice on Thursday:

Both McGahee and Royal missed practice on Wednesday. McGahee, who is undergoing a career resurgence in Denver, leads the team with 775 rushing yards and 3 rushing touchdowns (tied with QB Tim Tebow 3 rushing TDs). McGahee also shares the lead among the team's running backs with a strong 4.8 yards per carry. He missed Wednesday's practice due to illness.

Meanwhile, Royal (toe) has started only 7 games this season, having missed three consecutive games earlier in the season. Royal is fourth among active Broncos receivers in yardage, trailing Eric Decker, Daniel Fells, and Matt Willis.

For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Von Miller Injury Update: Denver Broncos LB's Status Vs. Vikings Is Up In The Air

Denver Broncos rookie linebacker Von Miller missed Wednesday's practice as a result of having surgery on his thumb. This leaves his status in doubt for Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings. However, Miller fully expects to attempt to play in the game, reports the Denver Post. Miller has been the trend-setter for this much improved Broncos defense, leading the way with 10.5 sacks in his first 11 games.

Miller plays an all-out style with few designed moves and he'll certainly need use of his thumb to track down and attack the quarterback or the running back in the backfield. If he can be a limited participant in practice on Thursday, the probability of his playing in Sunday's game goes up dramatically.

Now, if Adrian Peterson is somehow able to play in Sunday's game, a Miller vs. Peterson matchup would certainly be one of the storylines to follow on the field.

For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Adrian Peterson Injury Update: Minnesota Vikings RB Misses Wednesday's Practice, Will Try On Thursday

The Minnesota Vikings still have two more days to determine running back Adrian Peterson's status for Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos. Peterson didn't practice on Wednesday due to an ankle injury he picked up against the Oakland Raiders on Nov. 20, but head coach Leslie Frazier is hopeful that his start running back is able to have limited participation on Thursday, reports Tom Pelissero of 1500ESPN Twin Cities.

If Peterson is unable to practice on Thursday, it would seem unlikely that he would practice on Friday, either. At that point, the Vikings would need to declare Peterson out for the game. The Vikings are 2-9 this season and there is no reason for the team to bring him back before he is 100 percent ready.

Toby Gerhart would take over as the starting running back for a second week in a row if Peterson is unable to go. Gerhart managed just 44 yards on 17 carries last week against the Atlanta Falcons.

For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Week 13 NFL Picks And Predictions: Denver Broncos Slight Favorites Over Minnesota Vikings In CBS Sports' Selections

Just because the Denver Broncos are 5-1 since Tim Tebow took over as the team's starting quarterback doesn't mean they're automatic selections in games against weak competition. Case in point, CBSSports.com's panel of experts split their choices for this game, 3-2, in favor of the Broncos over the Minnesota Vikings. That's in both the straight pick 'em and going on odds.

The Vikings do offer a solid rushing defense that could stop Tebow from doing much on the ground, but when Tebow and Willis McGahee both need to be watched for, the Vikings defense might not be able to fully compensate. Plus, the pass defense isn't great, so Tebow could finally have that passing game that makes him look like a good passer.

If Adrian Peterson doesn't play for the Vikings, the Broncos must surely be the selection to win this game.

For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Injury Update, Week 13: Full Wednesday Injury Report Released

We've already received numerous details on the injuries that have marred the Denver Broncos so far week, but now the team has released its official injury report for Wednesday. The biggest news of the day is obviously star linebacker Von Miller's thumb surgery, but it's worth noting that both running back Willis McGahee and wide receiver Eddie Royal failed to participate in Wednesday's practices, either.

The team's full injury report can be found here, but it's shown below for your viewing pleasure:

Did Not Participate

- LB Von Miller

- WR Eddie Royal

- RB Willis McGahee

Limited Participation

- TE Daniel Fells

- S David Burton

Full Participation

- OT Ryan Clady

Miller is highly unlikely to play on Sunday, while the statuses of the two offensive starters haven't been established yet, although there appears to be some pessimism regarding Royal's status.

For more on this game, visit Mile High Report, SB Nation's Denver Broncos blog, and The Daily Norseman, SB Nation's Minnesota Vikings blog. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Von Miller Injury Update: Denver Broncos LB Has Thumb Surgery

We already knew that Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller was dealing with a thumb injury, but now we have word that the star rookie underwent surgery to repair torn ligaments in his thumb on Wednesday. This likely puts him in doubt for Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings.

Typically, this is the kind of injury that keeps players out for at least a week, but Miller hasn't committed to missing the game against Minnesota just yet. He suffered the injury in the fourth quarter of last week's game against the San Diego Chargers, but only missed part of the game while getting taped up and returned to play in overtime. Even with his optimistic take, it's still pretty unlikely that the linebacker is able to take the field on Sunday.

It's been an incredible year for Miller, Denver's first-round pick in 2011. He recorded 10.5 sacks in his first 11 games with the Broncos, showing that he's a true impact player on defense. Here's to hoping that he can get healthy soon.

For more on this game, visit Mile High Report, SB Nation's Denver Broncos blog, and The Daily Norseman, SB Nation's Minnesota Vikings blog. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Injury Report, Week 13: Von Miller, Willis McGahee, Eddie Royal Miss Practice

The Denver Broncos are facing the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday as they hope to carry the momentum that they've established over the past few weeks, but the statuses of three key players for that game are unclear. Linebacker Von Miller, running back Willis McGahee and wide receiver Eddie Royal all missed practice with the team on Wednesday while dealing with injuries.

Miller, the team's star rookie, is dealing with a thumb injury, while both McGahee and Royal are suffering from lower leg injuries. McGahee reportedly had his ankle wrapped up, while Royal was seen wearing a boot on Monday but wasn't wearing it while watching his teammates practice on Wednesday. McGahee and Royal have both missed some time already this season due to injury.

For more on this game, visit Mile High Report, SB Nation's Denver Broncos blog, and The Daily Norseman, SB Nation's Minnesota Vikings blog. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Adrian Peterson Update: Minnesota Vikings RB 'Questionable,' According To Leslie Frazier

According to Minnesota Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier, the Vikings will know more about Adrian Peterson's status for this week after practice on Wednesday, but right now he is "questionable" for their match up vs. the Denver Broncos as he recovers from a high left ankle sprain.

Obviously the Vikings' offense is much less threatening with Peterson on the bench, and in Week 12 vs. the Atlanta Falcons, the Vikings had trouble running the ball. The majority of the carries were given to ex-Stanford RB Toby Gerhart, who ran for only 44 yards on 17 carries. Percy Harvin also saw some action out of the backfield, but he only ran for 11 yards on 5 carries. Rookie QB Christian Ponder did have a good day throwing the ball, but most defense would likely prefer a Vikings team that is unable to run the ball.

For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Sign Tony Carter And Greg Orton To Practice Squad

With the Denver Broncos looking to add depth to their roster, especially after the season ending injury to special teams standout Cassius Vaughn, the team signed two familiar players to its practice squad on Wednesday. The Denver Post reported that the Broncos have signed CB Tony Carter and WR Greg Orton to the practice squad in anticipation of their week 13 match up vs. the Minnesota Vikings.

Both players have a history with Denver. Orton, who is most notable for starring at Purdue, was in camp with the Broncos this year, but he didn't make the team. Carter meanwhile was with the team in 2009, but most recently was on the Vikings practice squad this season. Whether or not that tidbit is merely a coincidence considering this week's match up remains to be seen.

For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Week 13 NFL Lines And Odds: Broncos Vs. Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings are 2-9 this season, a trajectory the Denver Broncos looked like they were heading for before Tim Tebow and an improving defense took control of things and brought the team to 6-5. But when the Broncos head to Minnesota for this Week 13 matchup, the Vikings will a slight favorite. The Vikings opened as one-point favorites over the Broncos, according to Odds Shark.

The Vikings do have the No. 9 rushing defense in the league at 99.6 yards per game, but they have been dreadful at stopping the pass. They are ranked No. 29 in the league with 258.2 yards allowed per game. Could this lead to a breakout passing game for Tebow? It's certainly possible. The San Diego Chargers did force Tebow to throw from the pocket and he looked better doing it (even though 9-of-18 for 143 yards isn't all that great).

The over/under opened at 37.5 points, which could be right for this game. However, in the Broncos' last three games, the Broncos have outscored their opponents, 50-36, and won by 4-2/3 points, on average. And right now, the Broncos are Nos. 21 and 22 in points per game at 20.1 points and 19.5 points. They could definitely just squeak by to 38 points.

Visit Odds Shark for more Week 13 NFL lines and odds. For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Minnesota Vikings Injury Update: WR Michael Jenkins Leads Four Players Placed On IR

The Minnesota Vikings enter Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos with an injury-riddled team that sent four players to Injured Reserve on Tuesday afternoon. Wide receiver Michael Jenkins, safeties Husain Abdullah and Tyrell Johnson, and long snapper Cullen Loeffler all had their seasons ended due to injury, reports Tom Pelissero of 1500ESPN Twin Cities.

Jenkins suffered a knee injury in Sunday's loss to the Atlanta Falcons and had just two catches for 25 yards. For the season, Jenkins has 41 catches for 505 yards and two touchdowns. Abdullah had a concussion two weeks ago and apparently is still suffer the effects of it. Johnson hurt his hamstring on Sunday and left the game in the second quarter. Loeffler's lower back was fractured on Sunday.

For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Adrian Peterson Injury Update: Minnesota Vikings RB 'Making Progress,' According To Report

The Denver Broncos will need to wait just like everyone else to find out the availability of Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson for this Sunday's game. The first official injury report won't come out until Thursday, but he is supposedly "making progress," according to Tom Pelissero of ESPN 1500 Twin Cities. Peterson missed last weekend's loss to the Atlanta Falcons with an injured ankle.

Peterson had a high ankle sprain against the Oakland Raiders on Nov. 20, which caused him to leave the game in the first quarter. He didn't return to the field, but he was on the sidelines for the remainder of the contest. He then wore a walking boot until Friday, but was in no shape to play this past Sunday.

Peterson was replaced by Toby Gerhart in the lineup and he provided just 44 rushing yards against the Falcons. The Vikings will need Peterson back if they hope to defeat a Broncos defense that has turned into the team's strength over the last six weeks.

For more on this game, visit Broncos blog Mile High Report and Vikings blog the Daily Norseman. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Plan To Bring In CB Tony Carter For Workout, According To Report

With Cassius Vaughn placed on injured reserve with a broken fibula, the Denver Broncos are thin at cornerback. The team will bring in cornerback Tony Carter and others for workouts on Tuesday, reports ESPN's Josina Anderson.

Carter was an undrafted free agent out of Florida State in 2009 and signed with the Broncos. He stuck with the team on the practice squad and then got brought up during Week 15 to play against the Oakland Raiders. He started the following week against the Philadelphia Eagles.

In 2010, Carter joined the New England Patriots and then moved on to the Minnesota Vikings in 2011. Given his past with the Broncos, it is quite understandable as to why the Broncos brought him in.

For more updates on the Broncos, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of the team, head over to Mile High Report. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Cassius Vaughn Injury Update: Broncos Place CB On IR; S Kyle McCarthy Signed

Following speculation that injured Denver Broncos cornerback Cassius Vaughn might miss the rest of the season, the team announced Monday afternoon that Vaughn has been placed on injured reserve. The team also signed safety Kyle McCarthy and linebacker Mike Mohamed to the active roster from the practice squad:

The #Broncos have signed S Kyle McCarthy and LB Mike Mohamed to the active roster from the practice squad & placed CB Cassius Vaughn on IR.

Vaughn suffered a broken fibula following a 36-yard kickoff return against the San Diego Chargers on Sunday. Vaughn had 20 tackles and an interception this season; he also returned seven kicks for 210 yards, including a long of 67 yards.

For more updates on the Broncos, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of the team, head over to Mile High Report. For news from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Minnesota Vikings Have 3,000 Tickets Left To Sell, Need To Go On Tim Tebow Marketing Campaign

Broncos Vs. Vikings Game Time Changed For Week 13 Matchup

The Denver Broncos had their Week 13 matchup with the Minnesota Vikings moved to an 11:00 a.m. MT kickoff time.