Vikings Fans Must Now Monitor Andrew Van Ginkel's Status

Vikings defense to face tough test without Andrew Van Ginkel

Vikings fans hoping to see a repeat performance from their defense this Sunday against the Commanders will have to hope for a quick recovery from linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel.

Van Ginkel injured his back in the first half of last Sunday's win over the Lions, and he did not return. The Vikings have not announced whether Van Ginkel will be available to play this week, but his absence would be a major blow to the defense.

Van Ginkel has been a key part of the Vikings defense this season

Van Ginkel has been one of the Vikings' most consistent pass rushers this season, with 3.5 sacks and 10 pressures in eight games. He also has 35 tackles, three tackles for loss, and a forced fumble.

The Vikings defense has been one of the NFL's best this season, allowing just 18.8 points per game. Van Ginkel has been a big part of that success, and his absence would be a major loss.

The Vikings have some depth at linebacker, but Van Ginkel is a key piece

The Vikings have some depth at linebacker, with Eric Kendricks, Jordan Hicks, and Nick Vigil all capable of playing multiple positions. However, Van Ginkel is a unique player who can line up at both inside and outside linebacker.

If Van Ginkel is unable to play this week, the Vikings will likely move Kendricks to the outside and start Vigil at inside linebacker. However, that would still leave the Vikings without a true pass-rush threat at outside linebacker.

The Vikings defense will face a tough test against the Commanders

The Vikings defense will face a tough test this week against the Commanders, who have one of the NFL's most explosive offenses. The Commanders are averaging 25.8 points per game, and they have a number of playmakers on offense, including quarterback Carson Wentz, running back Antonio Gibson, and wide receiver Terry McLaurin.

The Vikings defense will need to be at its best to slow down the Commanders' offense. If Van Ginkel is unable to play, it will be even more difficult for the Vikings to get pressure on Wentz and force him into mistakes.