Week 9 - 49ers vs. Minnesota Vikings Injury Preview

Both teams are looking to bounce back from ugly thrashings. While many expected the Bears to throttle the 49ers, the Vikings were supposed to be able to hold their own with the Patriots Monday night. So let's take a look at the injury issues each team faces:

49ers

• Probable: Taylor Jacobs, WR (Hamstring)
• Questionable: Maurice Hicks, RB (Concussion); Chad Williams, S (Thigh)
• Doubtful: Vernon Davis, TE (Leg)
  

Vikings

• Probable: Kevin Williams, DT (Ankle); Ben Leber, LB (Flu); Artis Hicks, G (Neck); Marcus Johnson, T (Ankle); Darren Sharper, S (Knee); Matt Birk, C (Knee); Pat Williams, DT (Knee); Tarvaris Jackson, QB (Knee); Ciatrick Fason, RB (Shoulder)
• Questionable: Napolean Harris, LB (Wrist)
• Out: Marcus Robinson, WR (Back)

Analysis
The 49ers offense could be looking at a BIG opportunity against a banged up Vikings defense. 5 different Vikings defenders are probable or questionable. While probable is pretty much the same as "gonna play," the 49ers have to go at these guys hard. A healthy offensive line and the power of Frank Gore could do some good things against a hurting defense.

On the offensive side of things, the middle/right side of the Vikings offensive line is also a little bit banged. This could provide some opportunities for the 49ers to create some kind of pass rush. While you need to have a good secondary, a good pass rush can make up for weaknesses deeper in the defense.