Note: Vikings Notebook is powered by Perrault Construction, the trusted roofing, siding and window company in Duluth.
Ivan Pace, Jr., is returning to action and just in time for the 129th Border Battle.
The Vikings (13-2) on Saturday activated the second-year linebacker who completed his return from a hamstring injury suffered in Week 12 at Chicago.
He'll be back in action to help against a strong attack from the Packers (11-4). Kickoff is 3:25 p.m. (CT) Sunday, and the game will be broadcast nationally by FOX.
This is the first regular-season Border Battle in which both clubs have entered the matchup with 11 or more wins, and it is just the fourth divisional game in the past 25 seasons to have both teams enter the game with 11-plus wins.
To make room for Pace, the Vikings waived linebacker Jamin Davis, who had been signed from Green Bay's practice squad after Pace's injury and appeared in four games. Davis recorded a sack against the Falcons and helped on defense and special teams.
Pace has totaled 59 tackles, six tackles for loss, six quarterback hits and 3.0 sacks over the course of nine games played this season. He also returned a fumble 36 yards for a touchdown against the Lions in Week 7.
The former undrafted rookie free agent has performed well against the run and is highly skilled at blitzes.