Posts Tagged ‘Pat Williams’

The greatest needs for the Vikings fall in two areas.  Strengthen the offensive line and improve the quarterback play.  The draft nears and we ask, will the Vikings address the issues or just white wash over them with spin and hype over draft choices brought in as part of a sustainment effort?  Are they looking years ahead, and only selecting backups to go behind an established “win now” team, or are they looking for a player to make a difference from day one?  We look forward to the discussions here and at Vikings Valhalla as the picks roll in.

On the offensive line, an aging but serviceable former Pro Bowler Matt Birk was let go not because of slightly declining play but because he disagreed with Brad Childress and he did it publicly.  I doubt that Ryan Cook will be moved over center, John Sullivan, the 2008 6th round draft choice from Notre Dame will be given the first shot at the job.  He is built more like a center whereas Ryan is built like a tackle.  I won’t rule out Cook making the move over, but unless the Vikings select someone in round one to compete for and win the right tackle job (and they passed on good players in free agency), I thinks he keeps it.  Even though he had never played the position, he did beat other tackles, some who had even started like Artis Hicks and Marcus Johnson for the job.  There is also Drew Radovich who spent last year on IR, who had prior to his injury earned the number 2 slot behind Cook as a rookie.

Ryan Cook along with Tarvaris Jackson were hand selected by Brad Childress in the 2006 draft.  Coach Childress fancies himself a builder of quarterbacks and offenses.  He will stick by his men unless they are soundly beat in head to head competition.  Tarvaris now has Sage Rosenfels to give the public appearance of a battle for the starting job.  I suspect a tackle draftee will be the same for Ryan Cook, but barring injury or a clearly obvious better play, they both with keep their starting jobs because not to, would mean that Brad Childress isn’t the offensive and talent guru that he wants Zygi Wilf to think he is.

The draft is heavy in tackle talent this year, which is a good thing.  The bad thing is it looks virtually all of it will be selected long before the Vikings and their number 22 pick reach to put a name on a card.

Eben Britton, Andre Smith, may be available especially since the Philadelphia Eagles consummated a trade with the Buffalo Bills for Pro Bowl left tackle Jason Peters.  But will the Vikings stick with their best player available philosophy and go in a different direction?

Viking shortages come in many flavors.  First is at center with Matt Birk heading eastward and out of Brad Childress’ dog house.  Sullivan is the only person listed as a center on the roster.  Ryan Cook could move over or even Anthony Herrera as center but they both have jobs already on the weaker right side.  I fully expect the Vikings to select in a later round a center-guard type, a guy who can play both positions and backup at both spots if the need arises.  Guard is another position that there presently isn’t a whole lot of depth with just 3 on the roster and 2 of them starting, Herrera and Steve Hutchinson.  If Herrera must move to center, right guard will need filled. If Cook moves over, right tackle will need filled plus the time to gel that all offensive lines seem to require.

There are 5 offensive tackles presently on the roster, with Cook position being the perceived need.  His play is nowhere near what the Vikings and their fans would like, so expect someone to at least give the appearance of competition.  If the Vikings select one in the first round we will see how serious they are about replacing Ryan.  The other implied benefit of getting a starter quality tackle is that if Bryant McKinnie ends up following off the lubed up no incident wagon, he’ll have to serve a full year suspension.  That starting caliber rookie tackle would sure be a bonus then, but fans don’t get your hopes too high, it still takes the young guys a little time to acclimate themselves to the league, the pace of play, the skill and speed of defensive ends and to gel with their linemates.

The defense is sound and will be led by EJ Henderson who is fully recovered from his separated toe injury.  He was on pace last year for his first Pro Bowl quality season when the injury pulled from field.  He along with Chad Greenway and Ben Leber will line up behind the best defensive line in the league.

The line however faces the possibilities of a missing Williams Wall.  Kevin and Pat will find out in June if their suspension for consuming diet pills will be held up, and if they must miss the first four games of the season.  If so, that leaves Jimmy Kennedy and Letroy Guion as the two remaining pure defensive tackles on the roster.   Yes, Brian Robison and some of the other defensive ends could slide in to relieve these big men, but they are only a situational stop gap [pun intended].  Plus, Pat isn’t the jolly youngster we all know and love, but is getting up there in years and unless Kennedy steps up his play more (a hopeful possibility), the Vikings need to grab an heir of parent if one such round bellied stud presents himself.

Sticking with the offense, another couple of spots that are low on the numbers are in the backfield.  There are currently only 3 runningbacks listed and working out at Winter Park.  There is the best one in the league, Adrian Peterson [Who just turned down the Madden cover.  I guess he didn't want to be a part of all of those coincidences.] , and then there is best #2 back in Chester Taylor.  That has to be the best 1-2 punch in the league.  Chester also gives the back office some trade options, should the need arise and Childress willing to go with AD all day or have young Albert Young move into the position.  I see the Vikings taking a running back between rounds 2 and 4.

The other low number is that we have only 1 fullback for the Childress KAO offense.  The coach likes to use the fullback as a battering ram for Peterson, and 1 isn’t enough for the depth chart even though we all know Garret Mills and Jeff Dugan could be moved back there if needed.  FB will be a later round acquisition or at least one of the undrafted free agent signings that come immediately after the draft.

So now we show a need for offensive tackles, guard, center and fullback, and a defensive tackle.  Let’s look at linebacker and defensive back next.

We have 7 linebackers total on the roster and we know the first 4 spots are assured.  Starters Ben Leber [weak side], E.J. Henderson [middle] and Chad Greenway [strong side], along with special teams’ ace and primary backup Heath Farwell.  Of the other 3, Erin Henderson has the best shot as a primary backup.  The Vikings very well may want to increase the quality of the pool of backups and look for someone that can make a mark on special teams.  If the opportunity presents itself, especially in the true best player available analogy, you just might see Rick Spielman and Scott Studwell call on one in an early round.  The linebacking corps is a rough and tumble bunch that have seen more than its fare share of injuries, and especially those effecting Vikings and their playoff aspirations and run, a good backer would be worth his weight in gold.

As for the defensive backs, the Vikings are set on their starts and remarkably have good numbers already on the roster.  They are presently carrying 8 cornerbacks and 5 safeties.  Antoine Winfield like Pat Williams is nearing the end of his career, but unless an obvious groom-able talent presents itself, I don’t see this as much of a need as others might think, especially when you look at it from a pure numbers angle.

The Vikings have 6 picks, and being the numbers game that it is, not just with defensive backs but with receivers on the other side of the ball, the totals and need level go against a high level pick.  Yes, more play makers are always welcome on both sides of the ball, but with Sagevaris Jacksonfels [as a buddy of mine calls him] going to be the quarterback, the best thing for him [them] is going to be a beefy front line to protect him [them] and pave the way for AD to run all day.  So I see the Vikes needing a C, G, OT, DT, and  LB the most with the quarterback position apparently in stone, and then throw in a RB and FB and WR and or CB that can add to special teams and you quickly see the numbers won’t quite match up.   You win football games from the line of scrimmage Chilly, but of course you already knew that, you guru you.

After the game (and while I was updating Luft’s Locker Room and Vikings Valhalla), I was thinking who deserved the game ball for the win.

I would love to give one to Zygi Wilf and his family for investing in the Vikings and now coming away with their first of hopefully many, championship banners.

But though Zygi was definitely an integral part of the success, he never touches the ball during the game. So who in the game deserved it?

One man came to mind.

Usually it is a player that is in the mix for a weekly leader spot in rushing, or touchdowns, sacks, interceptions, turnover recoveries, etc.. T-Jack had a decent day with 239 yards, 1 TD and the 1 pick resulting in an 88.5 QB rating. AD had 103 yards, topping the 100 yard mark for the 10th time this season a Vikings record to go along with league rushing title and 1,760 on 363 carries. Bobby Wade had 98 yards and Bernard Berrian 81 with a clutch TD. Berrian had his best yardage total ever and almost reached 1,000 yards on 48 catches this season. And there was the defense, #1 against the rush, much improved against the pass and hard to score against, but that would not be it either.

The game ball should go to a man that has improved on his distance, and always been clutch. He definitely was yesterday and after three time outs and the confusion of poor clock management. Ryan Longwell trots out and bangs the NFC North winning 50 yard field goal.

This kicker has earned it.  (And you say I pick on kickers…)

Speaking of that defense, they deserve credit for their history setting effort this season.

The Vikings run defense made history Sunday, but they clearly are not the same without their top run-stopper clogging up the middle. The Vikings became the first team to lead the league in run defense for three consecutive seasons since the 1970 AFL/NFL merger. They allowed an average of 76.9 yards rushing.

First Mike Tomlin received credit as the defensive coordinator, and we know this year Leslie Frazier will reap the credits and get hired as a head coach SOMEWHERE ELSE! But there has been one common denominator between the both of them: Karl Dunbar, the defensive line coach. If Leslie goes off to coach his own team, then in my opinion, Karl should be asked if wants the DC job and who he’d like to see replace him as line coach.

The quote above was taken from a Chip Scoggins at the STrib story on how Pat Williams is going nuts not being in the game.

Pat Williams says he’ll put a stop to the run

Pat Williams is sorely missed in his two and a half game absence. Both Kevin Williams and Jared Allen have been guaranteed double teams and held to no sacks in each of the final two games. I think that would have been different if Phat Pat were healthy and playing. Hopefully, like he says, he’ll be back against Philadelphia pushing the offensive line backwards and causing all sorts of havoc.

Congratulations to the line, linebackers, defensive backs and the coaches for being the first team to lead the league in run defense 3 years in a row since the merger. In case you were wondering, the NFL record is 4 seasons and held by the Cowboys. That will be the goal for next season, but for now it is onto glory in the playoffs!  Enjoy it Vikings fans, just like for Zygi, it is well earned.

Grandpa Sports and the art of brown nosing

Sid Hartman, affectionately known as Grandpa Sports in the Twin Cities has put out another sugary sweet column on how the Wilf’s are standing by their man. (Sounds like a country song I heard once.)

One of the Wilf family, owners of the Vikings, asked not to be quoted. But he said the family is very happy with the job Childress is doing, predicted the Vikings will win the NFC North Division and again repeated what other members of the ownership have said: It takes time to build a solid, winning team.

“One of the Wilf family…” Who, the dog, because Chili brings him treats. Childress’ approval rating is sitting at 13% today, a two point raise from last week. An increase for doing nothing, but well within the margin of error.

Well to win the NFC North, Childress needs to keep that offense as productive as they were against Chicago, cut the special teams mistakes dramatically and hope the Wall wins their appeal.

He will need to beat the Texans this week to get back to .500 and mute the “Fire Childress!” chants. Then the Vikings will have to raze the remaining games against their division rivals. Those 4 victories would give the Vikings 7 total, not enough to win the division but making it easier. The team will still need to pick off 2 or 3 more additional wins to win the division. That means at minimum 6 wins with beating everybody in the division or being swept by the Bears or Packers will dictate 7 wins in the final 9 games.

That will be one heck of a late season roll, surpassing the 5-3 run last year.

The first win starts Sunday. Go Vikings!

Pill situation different

Minnesota Viking Pat Williams says his banned-substance situation is different, but won’t elaborate

This is an interesting piece by Sean Jensen. Pat is worried about what the kids he influences will think. From what I can get from this is that by no means it was intentional. Other reports I’ve read also elude to maybe that the players were taking approved supplements they may have somehow been spiked. We will see as these appeals play out.

What surprised me even more though was when these tests were taken.

Indications are that all the positive tests came during training camp. According to the 2008 NFL Policy on Anabolic Steroids and Related Substances, “all players will be tested for prohibited substances at least once per league year. Such testing will occur at training camp or whenever the player reports thereafter.”

Training camp! They report at the end of July and now it is almost November. That I find incredulous. Those test results should have been back by the start of the season.

When asked about all of this being leaked and now very public [think of those kids], Williams responded.

He also lamented that the system is “flawed” and questioned the leaking of what is supposed to be highly confidential information. Any team or team employee publicly divulging “information concerning positive tests or other violations” is subject to a fine of up to $500,000 by Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Whomever is responsible for the disclosure of the player’s confidential information needs this and termination. It is unconscionable in this blogger’s opinion.

I’m still hoping that the appeals go through and that both Pat and Kevin miss no game time. …But I’m biased of course.

Tarvaris running the scout team

What a fall from grace. Started the last 7 games of 2007 to be benched after the first two this year.

Charlie Walters gets a chance to talk to the almost invisible quarterback.

Wanting to get snaps that all now go to Gus Frerotte, T-Jack has volunteered to run the scout team. (Which means John David Booty gets nothing.) He is running the other teams plays and emulating their tendencies. Hopefully that will add to his QB development even though it is not the same scheme that he would have to step back into if Gus goes down.

“It’s a lot different going from the starter back to the scout team,” Jackson said. “But you’ve got to take it for what it’s worth and try to get better.”

Jackson hasn’t given up on returning,

“Hopefully,” he said. “I’m just taking it one day at a time right now, and however things pan out. . . . I really can’t control it if I’m on the field or not. So I’m just doing what I can.”

Learn the most you can, when you can and be ready to step in when called. Take mental notes how Gus Frerotte stays cool and confidently throws the ball during games. Do that, and when that time comes, you could very well earn that starting spot back.

Rough and stormy seas have beset the Vikings coming out of the bye week.  Jay Glazer announced on national TV that Pro Bowlers Pat and Kevin Williams have failed the banned substance test, both for use of water pills.

He later writes on the web,

“The Vikings’ suspension appeal was slated for this past week, the team’s bye week, but it was pushed back.

Many of the players who have taken the product have long used water pills in order to make weight as they show up to camp or in order to make certain weight on a weekly basis. Guys like the Williams duo, Grady Jackson, Charles Grant appear on the surface to clearly fall under this reasoning.

It’s a shame that players who use such pills, which are readily available at drug stores and health food stores, are swept in the same category as those who try test positive for juicing.”

Precedence was already set in August when the New York Jets running back Jesse Chatman was suspended for four games for violating the league’s drug policy. He said he tested for a diuretic – called Bumetanide.  Now, was he doing to mask steroid use or lose weight?  I don’t know.  Saints offensive guard Jamar Nesbit already served a four-game suspension from the use of the pills.

According to FOX’s Josina Anderson.

“There are about six to ten [players] overall positive tests. Three to four of them are from the Saints organization alone including McAllister and Smith,” the source told her.

“Most of them tested positive for Bumetanide. The last few tested positive for another substance that works similarly,” said Anderson’s source.

We have yet to know if Kevin and Pat tested bad for Bumetanide or the other similar substance, but with the precedent set with Chatman and Nesbit, and it looks like no leniency for the big boys just trying to make their weight.  I hope that I am wrong.

Confidentiality until the appeals process is complete is required.  It is appalling that it has been disregarded.  We now know the names of Will Smith, Charles Grant and Deuce McAllister of the Saints along with Falcon DT Grady Jackson and now Pat and Kevin Williams.  The NFL has a problem in its front office, because it is clear that the source had to come from there.  (There is a slight chance it came from the testing lab, but they probably don’t know whose sample is who’s by using a nondescript ID number or code to keep prejudice from affecting results.)  There needs to be strong disciplinary actions taken when the leak is found at the minimum.

Looking ahead at the last 4 games of November, Green Bay, @ Tampa Bay, @ Jacksonville, and Chicago, the earliest we could see the Wall suspended, can you see wins without them especially considering that EJ Henderson is gone too.  I hope Napoleon Harris, Fed Evans, Letroy Guion and maybe Ellis Wyms sliding over can pull the load.  Plus, Jared will be facing double teams the whole time making running up the middle a definite option to go along with taking shots at the secondary.  All this after facing a hot Houston Texans that put the Vikings on what could be a 6 game losing streak, and then to think that Brad Childress will try to spin that as an excuse not to be fired, just galls me to no end.

Looking at the schedule I wanted to take gander at predicting the outcome, especially in the light of the core of the Vikings defense gone.  Now if the Vikings offense continues to put up 41 points a game (thanks Chicago), we’ll do just fine.  However, there are two phases of the game, special teams and defense.  The strongest aspect of the Vikings game this year had been the D, the weakest and basically the teams Achilles heel has been the special teams.  They and the offense will have to play their best ball of the season because the defense that was ranked 2^nd against the run and 20^th against the pass just had its run stopping pass pressuring core put on notice of a 4 game suspension.

Texans (Nov 2/noon/CBS) – The Wall should be still playing as the Vikes welcome a hot Houston team with a good special teams and 5^th ranked passing offense to go along with their 11^th ranked rush.  The Vikings will have to play at their best with Madieu Williams back for his first game and Napoleon Harris starting his.  I question in light of the allegations, is there enough coaching and leadership to make this happen?  No, and the boo birds start yelling loud enough for coach Childress to hear.  The team is coming out of the bye and should win, but doesn’t due to more bad play calling.

Packers (Nov 9/noon/FOX) – Brad Childress’ worst nightmare.  In his tenure as coach he has faced the Packers 5 times and lost every single one of them.  I figure that this will be the first game the Williams Wall will be at home watching.  Make this game Childress’ 6^th and final loss.  The Vikings will be 3-6 virtually eliminated from any playoff hopes, plus Zygi Wilf wanting revenge on Green Bay for their fictitious tampering charges, takes it out on Childress instead.  There is a press conference after the game and Leslie Frazier is named interim head coach.  No Rooney rule needed there.  (Sorry St Louis.)

@ Buccaneers (Nov 16/noon/FOX) – Now led by a Tony Dungy disciple, the team treks down out of the cold to visit a team battling to stay in the race for the NFC South.  But like first outing for new coaches this year, the Vikings take away at least a turning point victory like Mike Singletary had in San Francisco, or an upset and a real one like with the Rams and the Raiders.

@ Jaguars (Nov 23/noon/FOX) – A visit to Jack Del Rio’s team along with a private apology from Zygi to Mike Tice turns in a good hard fought effort, but the Jags trying to get another wildcard birth defeat the Vikes on the second road game in a row.  At least it is warm.

Bears (Nov 30/7:30pm/NBC) – After the 48-41 defeat in Chicago, the Vikes are looking to return the favor.  The only problem is that the Williams Wall is desperately needed and Forte runs all day, and Kyle Orton finishes the rest.  Looks like the Bears will be winning the division.  The count is now 4-8.

@ Lions (Dec 7/non/FOX) – Over to Ford Field to play St Mary’s School for the Blind.  The offense scores over 50 points and Adrian Peterson screams past the 1,000 yard mark.  The Wall is back and takes it out on the boys in Honolulu blue.  This is the Vikings feel good game and start of some well deserved momentum.

@ Cardinals (Dec 14/noon/FOX) – The defense has found it’s soul again and even though Kurt Warner throws for over 300 yards, the 3 interceptions (2 by Darren Sharper) and the fumble do the red birds in for the upset.

Falcons (Dec 21/noon/FOX) – Matt Ryan has hit his rookie wall, and though the Falcons are on the way to a better future, today is not the day.  Both the Offense and defense dominate and more importantly, the special teams play well too.

Giants (Dec 28/noon/FOX) – The Giants have already sewn up the NFC East and home field advantage.  The Vikings defense tears apart Eli’s backup just like if Eli was there playing catch with Darren Sharper and Antoine Winfield.  The loss is meaningless to the G-men but turns out to be the Vikings 4^th win in a row.  The team finishes 8-8 and the Leslie Frazier era continues into 2009.

I’m no swami, but that looks to be about as realistic as it gets. Tell me what you think, but first I  want to give a shout out to one the best writers in the Vikings’ blogosphere, Pacifist Viking.  PV has wrote on what is his final straw with Brad Childress and his unwillingness to learn and expand from his system with the goal of playing better football.  That to me is the point of a coach, not only does he teach, he thrives on learning and hopes to advance his craft to an art form.  He then goes on to introduce the possibility of one such coach and former Viking: Mike Mularkey.

PV’s pointing out Mike Mularkey might be a good option too if my prognostications fail to pan out exactly the way they were typed.  But if Childress manages to limp to the end of the season with an 8-8 record or so, the Wilf’s will probably look for a big name guy instead.  The shocker would be if old Gus Frerotte and the KAO score 40 points a game and the Wall isn’t missed.  The Vikings win the division and Brad the Man is saying, “See!”   Either way is good, and it is always a good (and somewhat masochistic) time to be a Vikings fan.

Did I open my big mouth with the Bye Week Blues? I talked about that during previous bye weeks, that the Vikings were usually involved in some sort of scandal, a Love Boat cruise, a brawl at bar or a little sex in a stairwell, etc., but that this year it was quiet. Famous last words…

Jay Glazer just announced on FOX pregame show that the Williams Wall, both Kevin and Pat are on the list for using the water pills. They may be up for a 4 game suspension!?!?! They are amongst the ever growing list of players across the NFL that is starting to leak out. The NFL says that these water pills may be used as a masking agent; well they also can be used for big guys to make weight. Some of those big guys have weight clauses in their contracts and Kevin and surely Pat do.

In Mike Florio’s story CORNWELL SLAMS REPORTING OF POSITIVE DRUG TESTS he points out,

In some of our discussions yesterday with league insiders regarding the news of a rash of positive tests triggering violations of the policy regarding anabolic steroids AND RELATED SUBSTANCES, concerns were raised regarding the fact that news of suspensions not yet been resolved via appeal had been disclosed to the media.

Kevin and Pat surely haven’t had their appeals which we know will be coming, resolved yet. Attorney David Cornwell comments,

“The recent reports about pending appeals by players who are alleged to have used weight loss supplements reflect the most egregious violation of the NFL steroid policy,” Cornwell said in a statement obtained by Mortensen. “The foundation of the policy is both a player’s right to appeal and an absolute right to confidentiality.  By leaking this story, the ’source’ is clearly attempting to put their thumb on the scale of justice and harm these men.”

“Everybody involved knows the confidentiality rules,” Cornwell said.  “The right to confidentiality overrides a reporter’s desire to break a story.  There is no public interest or public right to know.  The confidentiality rule presumes that nobody has right to know while the process moves forward.  Confidentiality is the cornerstone of every workplace testing program. It must be protected against any perceived competing interest — especially an unrelated party’s interest.”

If K-Will and P-Will did violate the steroid policy for taking steroids, then they should be punished, but if they take water pills to keep their weight down (a problem for most of the nation, me included) then they shouldn’t be suspended. It will be a case by case decision, but also should generate further investigation as to who on the Vikings staff knew or instructed them to take these water pills.

If the two of these Pro Bowl players end up having to serve a 4 game suspension for this, it is this blogger’s opinion that any hope of making the playoffs will be lost. But some weirder things have happened and there will be players all over the league taking an unexpected month off right in the middle of the season.

I believe both men have weight clauses and were probably using these water pills to make weight. This is obviously a shocking development for the Pro Bowlers and the team, or more importantly to us fans.

Can you imagine 4 games without the two. Oy!

This will be a story we will be watching closely. Tell us what you think.

In an act of kindness and demonstrative of his big heart, “Phat” Pat Williams spent some of his extra free time in his auto customization shop to trick up some friend’s wheels.  These special recipients have come upon hard times of late and Pat wanted to do something special for them in hopes of getting them out of their funk.

“You kind of feel sorry for them a little,” said Williams.  “I just thought a little chrome and some new rims might just be the thing to cheer them up.”

In a special ceremony open to the team and this lucky blogger; Pat presented the Vikings Special Teams with their new bus.

Are you really looking forward to the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers opener?  Me too.  Even Zygi Wilf and his family have a new found appreciation for what is the premier rivalry in the division and one of the arguably all time best in football.  This season version was heightened by the Brett Favre saga and the immediate [and acquitted] charges of tampering leveled against the Vikes by the Pack.  Feel the love Baby!

The preseason has ended and the games are starting to count.  A few things came out of the games in the preseason that Vikings fans will look forward to.  First and foremost was the improved play by Tarvaris Jackson in the first two games prior to his knee sprain.  The sprain is easily at a point now, that not 100% will be fully functional and not impair his play.

Tarvaris this year also has an improved group of receivers led by Bernard Berrian and second year player Sidney Rice.  The big case of dropsies was traded off to Jacksonville earlier in the year and I don’t anticipate its return.  Even the under-achieving Visanthe Shiancoe has shown improvement at catching the ball.  This ability to throw should give the Vikings the ability to strike from anywhere on the field and compliment the run.  It will also be necessary to pull the safety from the box that will surely be there to stop the run.

Running the ball is what the Vikings of ’07 did best.  With the Rookie of the Year, Adrian Peterson, and the Chester Taylor providing a league leading tandem at running the ball, the only way that teams could stop them was to shut down the passing game and throw 8, 9, and sometimes 10 guys in the box.  The Vikes still drove the ball, but it eventually lowered the offensive output.  This year, Adrian Peterson has been learning patience and following his linemen, then when a hole opens up to break free instead of trying to force it.  Plus, he should be in on more passing situations either blocking or getting open in space where he is absolutely deadly.

If opposing teams, and by that I mean Green Bay this week try to fill the box, Jackson with weapons and confidence will beat them over the top.  The Vikings will be a run first team with the stable of backs they have but this year with the acquisition of Berrian and the improved play of receivers and more importantly Tarvaris Jackson, there should be more of a balanced attack with each facet of the offense feeding off of what the defense is trying to stop.

Monday night’s game, the Vikings will see an injury recovering Packers defense lead by linebacker A.J. Hawk and his sprained chest (questionable) and a slower Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila with a gimped knee not practicing Friday, but listed as probable.  This should help Artis Hicks who will be making his start at left tackle for the suspended Bryant McKinnie.

Artis Hicks should have help from Steve Hutchinson on his right and Jimmy Kleinsasser on his left.  The only thing I’m concerned about is that Childress will show which direction the play [run] is designed to go by which tackle is getting help from Kleinsasser.  Last year the left side of the line had a 5+ yard per carry average and the right side of the O-line had a league leading 7+ yards per carry average, and though Ryan Cook contributed, it was probably more due to the help of Kleinsasser’s and somewhat Tony Richardson’s blocking abilities.  This year Thomas Tapeh will be at full back, and along with Jimmy be helping more now no matter which direction the play is designed.

On the defensive side of the ball the Vikings will be testing the first season starter Aaron “I’m want my Mommy” Rodgers like he has not been tested before.  Just think, he’s named the starter and future of the franchise after Brett Favre’s retirement, Brett has a change of heart and a fight with the club, and the poor backup who is to be the new leader is stuck in the middle.  Even the young Packers fans where giving him grief.  All I can say is expect more.

Jared Allen was one of the best free agent acquisitions in the league this year and has bonded with the Williams Wall and the forgotten Ray Edwards to form the best defensive line in football today.  They will be busting through a highly suspect line due to injuries; Josh Sitton (G) is out with a knee, Chad Clifton (T) is listed as not participating with some sort of knees and chest problems, but is listed as probable, and Scott Wells (C) with back issues and only listed as questionable.  That lineup of wounded and substitutes will have all of the front four licking there chops in anticipation of many meetings in the backfield.

Take a first time starting QB, a busted line and throw in for good measure a starting running back in Ryan Grant that sat out most of the preseason, then once finally showing up tweaks a hamstring.  He did not participate Friday, but is still listed as probable.  Pat Williams is sure hoping he will be there, because he is the only back last year to gain over 100 yards against him [the Vikings run D] and he takes it personally.

Such a strong defensive line will command double team blocking from the opposition whether it be the Pack or the rest of the league.  This leaves the Vikings linebackers lead by E.J. Henderson in the middle to reek havoc and fill holes in the running game and hunt for receivers in the passing game.

In the passing game, a sore spot from ’07, pressure on the QB from that defensive line [thank you Zygi for getting Allen] should shorten the time Rodgers has to throw the ball along with mess with his mind causing bad decisions and wounded ducks that Darren Sharper will eagerly gobble up.  The Vikes only rookie starter, Tyrell Johnson will be playing next to him and should be holding his own.  He will be targeted for sure, but with help from Sharper, has shown throughout preseason that he is up to the task.

There were a few things that came to focus during the week.  This defense looks to be very, very good and the offense has greatly improved.  Leadership in the front office and coaching staff has made it possible, but what gets me psyched is the chemistry of the players.

Jimmy Kleinsasser, my favorite player also thinks so, and thinks it is unique because the closeness is for the team as a whole. He credits players such as defensive standouts Jared Allen and Kevin and Pat Williams and offensive stalwarts Peterson and Steve Hutchinson with setting a good tone in the locker room.

“This group is probably the closest team I’ve been on in the NFL, that’s for sure,” he said. “And that’s across the board, every position, offense and defense. We’re not just having guys sitting as a position group or hanging out with the offense. We’re all for each other.”

And we as fans are for them too.  I expect the Vikings to go into Lambeau Field and start something special.  This is the ticket I’m voting for in ’08 and it will start by defeating the NFC North champs.  Skol Vikings!

What this time is between preseason game 3 and, an early final preseason game and preparations for week 1 on Monday Night Football. A few thoughts first on Saturday’s game first, then the cuts for Tuesday, Dallas and the final 53. That’s a lot I know, but let’s see how it goes… So much so, that I’ve decided to do this as a two part-er.

Part One:

A little Vikings self critiquing to make some of the Steelers fans feel a little better. The offense sure missed Tarvaris Jackson [I didn’t expect it that much, but it shows how much he is in sync with the offense], but thankfully we have old Gus, but things were “off”. Be it nervousness about the Steelers good defense or as the excuse I heard last night, “not being used to Frerotte’s cadence”, the O-line and even the running backs looked like their timing was a skewed. Childress went on to call it rhythm, but whatever it was the offense just wasn’t as productive as it had been with TJ at the helm.

AD and Taylor only getting 26 yards? Good job Steelers.

“The Steelers’ defense is very stingy,” said Peterson, who rushed for 21 yards on 12 carries. “They’re a playoff team, so we knew what to expect. We came out the second half with a good drive and really got into a groove. That’s what our offense is all about. When you play playoff-caliber teams it’s going to be tough.”

Tough maybe, but I think it may be more of the vanilla and lack of game planning style of the preseason. Plus Adrian and Chester both become effective because them and the offensive line wears down the opponent over the course of a game, not just one half. Some of those runs needed just one missed tackle and either back was off to the races. Like I said, good job by the Steelers D.

False start penalties from Herrera, Birk and Shiancoe, flat out unacceptable. The line play was “off” as a group with a sack even given up by Steve Hutchinson, but at least we saw McKinnie’s suspension backup, Artis Hicks get some snaps with the first team at left tackle. Shiancoe did catch 2 passes and didn’t drop or fumble either one, so progress there. Allison looked good receiving except for his drop, and Frerotte did well statistically with the exception of the one horrible interception leading to the Steelers’ 3 points.

The defense looked great! My favorite play among many was Pat Williams meeting Mendenhall 4 yards deep in the backfield. Sweet! EJ Henderson should be a Pro Bowler this year easily the way he is playing, a beast. I guess besides his talent, it says something for having the same D coordinator 2 years in a row. Also, why his kid brother wasn’t drafted is beyond me. Erin is playing better than many first day draft picks. Don’t worry guys, he’s made the final 53 [especially after the first cut was announced].

Longwell, who played for the first time looked good and distance on kickoffs was adequate. (Some day I would love to get a guy that consistently blast kickoffs through the end zone… sigh.)

It was good contest between two good teams, which who knows if all goes well, might see each other again in Tampa.

The only injury of note was to Robert Ferguson who got kicked in the calf. He was seen Monday in Winter Park with a stiff limp and a sleeve over the right calf.

Tuesday, the day teams make their first cuts from 80 to 75. The Vikings accomplished that task on Monday and with only one surprise. Linebacker Derrick Pope, who was signed as a free agent in the spring to be another special teams ace and backup linebacker has failed to make the team. That currently leaves Vinny Ciurciu, Rufus Alexander, J Leman, David Herron and Erin Henderson as the backups. Last year the Vikes kept 7 backers on the roster, but even if they go to 6 this year, I am convinced that Ciurciu, Erin Henderson and Alexander will be the #2s. It will be tight between Leman and Herron if they keep 7, but either one should now make it to the practice squad.

The other three cuts were offensive tackles Sean Dumford and Brock Pasteur and receiver Daniel Davis. Dumford and Pasteur were literally camp bodies picked up after the Vikings when on an IR spree. The Vikes were already down to 79 because of it and never replacing defensive tackle Kenderick Allen a part of the same spree. Davis didn’t do anything worthy to stand out, a must when you are trying to make the team.

Tonight is is P3. In a national broadcast on CBS, we will be treated to Mike Tomlin and his Steelers coming to town to face the mighty Purple.

It is not only a homecoming for Tomlin, but also running back “Waltzing” Mewelde Moore, punter from eons ago Mitch Berger and safety Tyrone Carter. Plus there will be ex-Goophers: Gary Russell, Matt Spaeth and Micah Rucker.

We know injury-wise at this point that Sydney Rice (virus) will be out after recovering his strength after a wicked batch of the late summer flu. Childress said tight end Garrett Mills (ankle) and defensive end Brian Robison (leg) are out for Saturday’s game. Offensive lineman Drew Radovich (shoulder) is questionable. Bernard Berrian should be playing after taking last week of with turf toe on the right foot.

The big question will be Tarvaris Jackson and his sprained knee. He did partake in some drills during the week, but reportedly never in 11 on 11 workouts. His appearance is looking very doubtful.

That will leave it up to Gus Frerotte to start the game and see if he is as sharp as he was last week off the bench. We should see a lot more running too, since the starters should get worked through half time and early into the third quarter.

The roster is at 79 but by the end of Tuesday will be dropped to 75 for the first cut. These should be 4 of the “camp bodies”, not there has seemed to be lots of those this year. The bug cuts to 53 will come a week later, and they will hurt a lot more.

Tonight will be the night, a dress rehearsal of sorts, that those guys on the Childress’ bubble must make a statement. For me I want to see if Martin Nance can continue to make the catches anywhere on the field. I want to see the battles for backup spots on the O-line, in particularly at left tackle. I want to see John David Booty and if he is still as lost as he has been the first two weeks. Then lastly take a good look at Tyrell Johnson to see if he indeed can alleviate my fears that he can take over for the injured Madieu Williams.

Speaking of Williams… Kevin and Pat along with their cowboy buddy should be having a field day against the Steelers offensive line, a weak point of theirs since last season. It should be interesting to see if the run defense has shaken off the rust as well as how many sacks can be totaled. Pittsburgh has a trio of good backs with Willie Parker followed by Mewelde Moore and rookie Rashard Mendenhall that will will test the run stopping ability of this unit yet again.

This is a very good test to see where the Vikings will measure up to the rest of the league. Enjoy the national audience, a good brew or two and the Vikings pounding some steel. Skol Vikings!

Vikings vs Ravens

The Purple have sailed east to Baltimore to meet and discuss issues with the only other team to wear purple. It is week 2 of the preseason and we should be privileged enough to see more of the starting line ups.

On offense, the Vikes will and should allow Adrian Peterson to get some touches running the ball. This should be interesting in two aspects; first has Adrian learned the patience that he has talked about to allow his blockers to do the work and then hit the hole when it opens, and secondly, will he hit Ray Lewis before Ray Lewis hits him.

To keep the 3-4 defense of the Ravens honest and not blitzing linebackers all of the time, the running backs must make it to and through the linebackers. Get them sitting on their heals instead filling gaps. Doing this delays the pass rush by the linebackers making for easier pickups in blocking assignments and more time for Tarvaris Jackson to make good decisions and throw the ball.

A point of emphasis for the Vikings fan to watch will be to see that Tarvaris continues to make good decisions, on time and on target throws. In week 1 of the preseason, we saw an improved Jackson and there is no reason to doubt that his progress will not continue.

The Vikings stated earlier in the week that the starters should be playing almost 2 full quarters. That will be good for us fans, but also for the defense, that was spotty last week against the Seahawks.

The defense will have their main run stopping energy source in the middle, big Pat Williams. Ray Edwards has been practicing, so we should be able to anticipate the starting front four of Edwards, P-Will, K-Will and Jarred Allen on the field and in action for all of us to see. And just think, new Ravens starter at quarterback, the former Heisman Trophy winner, Troy Smith will get the same opportunity. [Haha!]

There are backup battles that need watching tonight as well. Will Fred Evans improve on last week’s performance at nose tackle, or Leger Douzable especially since Jayme Mitchell is done for the season. Who will step up as the special teams ace now that Heath Farwell is done, and how will the rookies do in the kick return department this week.

Again this is only preseason and the coaches will be putting in specific players into the game during certain situations so as to get their play on tape for evaluation. That is the goal, show progression towards honing skills as a team and to evaluate players. Winning is nice, but not a goal. We should see better play by the defense against a much weaker offense this week, if not; worry will start to creep in. The offense should show continued steps in production, especially out of the 2’s and 3’s. One last goal… STAY HEALTHY!

I envy you all that will see the game tonight, for those of us out of the local broadcast area, the first re-broadcast on NFLN isn’t until Monday at 3 PM, then again on Wednesday at 5 AM. Enjoy as always, and SKOL VIKINGS!