The Minnesota Vikings and Baltimore Ravens released their first injury reports for Week 10 on Wednesday, and they told two completely different stories. For the Vikings, the list was littered with uncertainty, as multiple starters were listed as questionable for Sunday’s game. Meanwhile, the Ravens enjoyed a clean bill of health, with every player on the roster practicing fully. This stark contrast in availability creates a significant tactical challenge for one team and a clear advantage for the other heading into a crucial matchup in Minneapolis.
How Will Minnesota’s Injuries Impact the Game Plan Against a Healthy Baltimore Squad?
Nov 7, 2021; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen (97) stands on the sidelines during the first half against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 7, 2021; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen (97) stands on the sidelines during the first half against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
The Vikings are heading into the week with several key players on the bubble, a situation that directly impacts their depth chart and strategic planning. A straight read of the morning reports signals a potential personnel problem for Minnesota, while Baltimore arrives at practice without a single player listed. This contrast not only forces the Vikings to be cautious with their starters but also changes how the Ravens will likely scheme their attack. The most significant concern for Minnesota is running back Aaron Jones Sr., who was listed as questionable after limited participation in practice. While he has been used inefficiently at times, Jones remains the team’s primary downhill and short-yardage runner, owning 139 rushing yards this season. If he is unable to play or is limited, the Vikings would have to shift more carries to backups and likely increase their passing frequency.
Additionally, the defense faces its own set of challenges with cornerback Jeff Okudah’s questionable tag. Okudah’s availability is particularly critical on third down, as his presence affects how the Vikings can match up against Baltimore’s versatile receivers and tight ends. Should Okudah be limited, Minnesota would likely need to rely on expanded nickel packages, placing more man-coverage responsibility on younger corners and slot defenders. The offensive line and special teams are also affected, as tight end Josh Oliver and fullback C.J. Ham were both listed as questionable. Oliver’s blocking and work in the intermediate passing game are integral to converting on short-yardage downs. Ham, while not a glamorous player, has a vital role in blocking packages and on special teams. His absence would force schematic adjustments in goal-line formations and on third-and-short situations.
On the other side, the Ravens reported zero injuries on Wednesday, as every player on their 53-man roster was a full participant in practice. This means Baltimore enters the week with healthier depth and fewer immediate schematic issues to resolve. The health disparity could play a major role in the game’s outcome, especially with both teams fighting for position. The Ravens, at 3-5, and the Vikings, at 4-4, are both jockeying for momentum in their respective divisions. In situations like this, a significant health advantage can create outsized leverage that could have playoff implications down the road.
Ultimately, the decisive variable in this matchup is availability. If the Vikings’ questioned starters are cleared to play, the game will likely follow a more predictable script. However, if any of them are ruled out or limited, Minnesota will be forced to adapt. This could mean a quicker passing game, a heavier rotation at cornerback, and more conservative decisions on fourth down, giving a fully healthy Ravens team a clear strategic edge.