Vikings' offense has been rough so far in preseason, but Peterson absence can't be ignored

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. – Minnesota's offense hasn't done much well in the first two preseason games.

Then again, the Vikings have kept the league MVP on the sideline.

The absence of running back Adrian Peterson caught the eye of wide receiver Greg Jennings when he walked off the field after a rough series in a recent exhibition game. At first, Jennings said he was concerned. Then he realized who was missing.

So this week should give the Vikings a better feel for where they're at. The plan is to play Peterson at San Francisco on Sunday, though he probably won't be in as long as the rest of the starters.

Coach Leslie Frazier says Wednesday he sees the game against the 49ers as an important assessment.

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