The Minnesota Vikings have made the decision to demote cornerback Fred Smoot after he has struggled in recent weeks. Head coach Brad Childress named rookie cornerback Cedric Griffin as the starter over Smoot, but Smoot will still play this Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals. The game is winnable for the Vikings, and one that could finally end the team's losing streak.

"I think the best thing is that the guys that give us the best chance to win are on the field," Childress said. "It's on merit, and Cedric has played well and therefore he goes to the front of the line."

Griffin is currently listed as questionable for the game due to a neck and shoulder injury, but signs are pointing to him playing still. He was a second-round draft pick from Texas, and will have his hands full with guys like Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, and Bryant Johnson.

Part of the reasoning for Smoot's struggle over recent weeks can be attributed to a groin injury and the sudden death of his half-brother in a car accident. His morale has been down apparently in the locker room, as he is still recuperating from the tragic loss. Childress has stated that the demotion to Smoot does not have to do with his emotions, but simply how he has performed on the field.