"Vikings' Defense Faces a Key Absence in Gilmore's Injury"

Impact on the Defense

With Stephon Gilmore sidelined, the Vikings will have to rely on Fabian Moreau to step up and fill the void. Moreau played 39 of 74 snaps last week against the Falcons and will now see extra snaps at corner behind Byron Murphy and Shaq Griffin. This increased workload will test Moreau's abilities and require him to perform at a high level.

The absence of Gilmore also means that the Vikings' defensive backfield will need to work together even harder to cover opposing receivers. Byron Murphy and Shaq Griffin will need to be at their best to compensate for Gilmore's absence and prevent big plays. The team will need to adjust their defensive strategies and make sure that all players are on the same page to minimize the impact of Gilmore's injury.

Inactives and Backup Quarterback

In addition to Gilmore, the Vikings will have several inactives for Monday Night Football. Quarterback Brett Rypien will serve as the emergency, third quarterback, while defensive lineman Levi Drake Rodriguez, center Dan Feeney, and offensive tackle Walter Rouse will also be sidelined. These inactives add to the challenges facing the Vikings as they prepare for the game.

The Bears, on the other hand, will have running back D’Andre Swift available despite being questionable with a groin injury. Swift returned to practice Saturday with limited work and will be a key player for the Bears. However, the Bears will also have several inactives, including running back Roschon Johnson (concussion), defensive back Ameer Speed, offensive lineman Braxton Jones (concussion), defensive lineman Gervon Dexter (knee), linebacker Noah Sewell, and offensive lineman Ryan Bates (concussion). These inactives could have an impact on the Bears' performance as well.