Bears vs. Vikings results: Minnesota wins, 21-14

The NFL playoff picture continues to change as the Vikings beat the Bears on Sunday afternoon.

by Satchel Price

Dec 9, 2012, 9:15 PM UTC

Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Part Of

Bears vs. Vikings: Minnesota rides Adrian Peterson to upset

see all updates

Putting the NFC North further into chaos, the Minnesota Vikings beat the Chicago Bears, 21-14, on Sunday afternoon. Minnesota (7-6) is now just one game behind the Bears (8-5) in the standings, with the Green Bay Packers (8-4) potentially in the same position depending on the result of Sunday night's game against the Detroit Lions.

Despite the continued struggles of quarterback Christian Ponder, the Vikings were able to ride strong defense and Adrian Peterson to victory against Chicago. A pair of big interceptions by the Minnesota defense, including a pick-six by Harrison Smith, gave the Vikings easy scores against a team that's typically stingy on defense.

Other than Peterson, the Bears’ defense did its part, but they were put into some tough situations in the game. The Bears had nearly 200 more total yards than the Vikings, but turnovers gave the Vikings easy points in a game that only featured four scores.

With the injuries continuing to pile up in Chicago, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to view the Bears as a true contender this season. With three losses in their past four games, it’ll be a true test of Lovie Smith’s roster to avoid collapse and make the postseason.

Fantasy Studs/Duds

Peterson is definitely this game's fantasy stud with 154 rushing yards, 16 receiving yards and two touchdowns on the day. Brandon Marshall put up his usual big numbers (10 catches, 160 yards, one touchdown) and Matt Forte played well (85 yards on 13 carries), but Cutler's two interceptions will ultimately define this game.

For more on fantasy football, check out SB Nation’s fantasy hub.

Odds

The Bears were favored by two points, so they didn’t cover.

More more on gambling and odds, check out SB Nation’s NFL odds page.

Injury Info

The Bears' big loss from the game is starting defensive tackle Henry Melton, who suffered a knee injury in the first half. Chicago defensive end Shea McClellin also left the game with a knee injury.