Toby Gerhart Fantasy Recap: Adrian Peterson Injury Opens Door For Vikings RB

Read More: Adrian Peterson (RB - MIN), Toby Gerhart (RB - MIN), Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings suffered a tough loss Saturday afternoon as they lost running back Adrian Peterson at the start of the third quarter to what looks to be a torn ACL and MCL. Although the Vikings ended up with a fairly lost season, the injury is still painful to bear. Peterson will rehab through the offseason with the hopes of being ready to go at the start of the 2012 NFL season.

Peterson was replaced by backup Toby Gerhart. Although Gerhart had received some playing time prior to the injury, he carried the load through the second half, finishing the game with 11 carries for 109 yards. This coming Sunday will be the second time Gerhart will replace Peterson in the starting lineup. Gerhart replaced AP after a high ankle sprain cost the Vikings star running back several weeks.

Peterson will be the guy in Minnesota next year if he is 100%, but as you get ready for fantasy football drafts next summer, this will all be a story to follow in preparation. Gerhart has proved to be a very capable backup, which could make him a very popular handcuff in 2012.

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