Jacksonville Jaguars vs Minnesota Vikings 2012 NFL Week 1 Point Spreads

When the Minnesota Vikings kickoff their 2012 NFL season against the Jacksonville Jaguars, all eyes will be on controversial running back Adrian Peterson for more reasons than one.

Not only is the former (2008) NFL Rushing champion coming off surgery to repair a torn ACL and MCL, but Peterson has also found himself in a little bit of hot waters lately.

On July 7^th of this year, Peterson was arrested and charged with resisting arrest in a nightclub in Houston, Texas. After posting a $1,000 bail, the ever-outspoken “AD” pleaded not guilty and hired Roger Clemens’ attorney.

Professing his innocence through the media, it will be Peterson’s word against that of an off-duty police officer, who’s claims the running back pushed him after he asked him to leave the club.

“I didn’t push, shove, touch anything to anyone that night, especially an officer,” said Peterson. “I definitely don’t have a problem with the Houston P.D. This involves two individual officers that I have an issue with. Once everything is settled and (comes) to a head, the truth will come out.”

From a football standpoint, Vikings’ fans will be eager to see how close to the old “AD” will Peterson return to following major reconstructive surgery on his left knee. Known as one of the most violent and fiercest runner we have in this league, the former Oklahoma standout believes he should be as close to 100% for the 2012 NFL season’s opening kickoff.

“I know my body overall, and I know I’m just not there yet,” said Peterson, who has been doing rehab since January. “It’s not terrible, but I’m not to where I know I need to be. I’m doing as much as I can. I’ll be talking to the coaches and whispering in their ears and trying to get out there as much as possible, but we’ll see.”

In spite of the uncertainty regarding Peterson’s knee, 2012 NFL Week 1 Point Spreads experts list the Vikings as favored by -4½ points over the underdog Jags at +4½. In addition, the projected OVER/UNDER line for this contest is set at a combined total of 38 points scored.

This game is scheduled to tipoff Sunday afternoon, September 9 at 1 PM ET from Mall of America Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Sign up to receive free 2012 NFL Picks from the best football experts in the world!

Be sure to follow @Sportributor on Twitter and Like us on facebook! Here’s a look at some of Peterson’s rehab work as he prepares for the Minnesota Vikings’ upcoming 2012 NFL season: