Football

Vikes, Bears renew bruising rivalry in prime time

By Antonio Nickerson

Special to the Star-Telegram
Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler returns to action for the first time since spraining his right thumb in the second game of the season. He takes over for Brian Hoyer, who was very effective in Cutler’s place until breaking his arm last week.
Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler returns to action for the first time since spraining his right thumb in the second game of the season. He takes over for Brian Hoyer, who was very effective in Cutler’s place until breaking his arm last week. Nam Y. Huh AP

Vikings (5-1) at Bears (1-6)

7:30 p.m. Monday, ESPN

Line: Vikings by 4

Minnesota looks to regain its footing after being completely outmatched in Philadelphia. Last week, injuries on the offensive line caught up to the Vikings as they scored just 10 points and gave up six sacks. Sam Bradford is coming off a three-turnover performance after having none in his first four games. Chicago quarterback Jay Cutler has been cleared to return to action just in time. Brian Hoyer, who came on in relief of an injured Cutler in Week 2, is out for the season after breaking his left forearm last week against the Packers. The next nine games are likely an audition process for Cutler, who is far too pricey to have a 68-70 record as a starter.

This story was originally published October 30, 2016 at 8:44 PM with the headline "Vikes, Bears renew bruising rivalry in prime time."

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