Skol Vikes

Favre Spreads the Wealth

2009-11-22T14:58:00.001-06:00

Brett Favre threw FOUR touchdown passes as the Vikes crushed the Seahawks 35-9 at Metrodome.

The game started slowly as the first quarter was marred with penalties and a slow start for the Vikes offense. However, once the second quarter started, Favre and the Vikes O started clicking. Minnesota scored on all three drives in the second quarter.

An 84 yard drive capped by a Favre to Percy Harvin 23 yard touchdown started the scoring. On Minnesota’s next possession, Favre hooked up with Visanthe Shiancoe (now maybe the BEST tight end in the league) on an 8 yard touchdown pass to cap a 70 yard drive.

After Heath Farwell recovered a fumble on the ensuing kickoff, Favre connected with Bernard Berrian on a 3 yard touchdown. It was 21-0 Minnesota at half.

Even without Antoine Winfield for the fourth straight game, the Vikes defense played really well all game long.

Favre threw a 7 yard touchdown to Sidney Rice to make it 28-0 Minnesota in the third. Favre’s day was done after going 22 of 25 for 213 yards with FOUR touchdowns and ZERO interceptions.

Tarvaris Jackson subbed in and played the fourth quarter going 6 of 8 for 77 yards including a 34 yard to Rice.

This was my first game of the year at Metrodome that I wasn’t at, hence the blog actually RIGHT AFTER the game for once. Minnesota is 5-0 at home and 9-1 overall. The Saints won, so the Vikes remain the second seed in the NFC. I say this every week, but if Favre and the boys stay healthy, this really could be a magical year.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense – Brett Favre
Defense – Ray Edwards
Special Teams – Heath Farwell

SKOL VIKES!

Chilly Gets an Extension

2009-11-20T17:07:00.002-06:00

Who loves Brett Favre more, me or Brad Childress? The answer to that is now easy, Chilly does.

Favre is the key reason that currently the Minnesota Vikings are 8-1 and appear a lock for the playoffs and a realistic Super Bowl contender. Favre also plays a major role in the Minnesota Vikings announcing that Head Coach, Brad Childress has signed an extension with the Vikes through the 2013 season. The deal is reported to be worth 4-5 million per year.

WOW! What was Zygi thinking?!? Through a little over three and a half years, Chilly has a 32-25 regular season record and is 0-1 in the playoffs (last year loss to Eagles at Metrodome).

Now don’t get me wrong, assuming Chilly and the Vikes make a run in the playoffs then they have to keep him as the Head Coach, but why not make the Chiller win at least ONE playoff game? I just don’t get it.

Childress walked into a disaster in 2006. The Vikes were fresh off the Sex Cruise and the lingering effects of no Randy Moss were being felt in Minneapolis. It was Chilly’s first job as a Head Coach and he brought a no nonsense attitude, which I actually believe the Vikings needed.

Although I get sick of Childress and his ego sometimes, I will give him some credit. The Vikes have had some GREAT Drafts under him. Here is a list of the first rounders in Chilly’s four year reign:

2006: Chad Greenway, starting OLB and shows flashes of being a Pro Bowler
2007: Adrian Peterson, the best RB in the league and possibly the best player
2008: Jared Allen, DE acquired via trade for this pick, but Allen has been amazing
2009: Percy Harvin, WR on his to becoming the Rookie of the Year, a playmaker

I realize other people are involved in the NFL Draft, but that is a SOLID four years of picking/trading.

In Chilly’s four years as head coach here is his record:

2006: 6-10
2007: 8-8
2008: 10-6, Won NFC North
2009: 8-1 so far

So while I’m not totally shocked that Chilly got an extension, he really should be taking Favre and Peterson out for a damn nice steak dinner! Hopefully Chilly can prove Zygi right and lead the Vikes to the promised land… Super Bowl Champions!

As Expected, Vikes Beat Lions

2009-11-18T21:06:00.001-06:00

Well after attending my fourth home game (of four so far) of the year, I once again am very tardy to blog. I think the reason being this time is really lack of excitement. I had great company, but the game was somewhat of a bore.

The Minnesota Vikings defeated the Detroit Lions 27-10 at Metrodome this past Sunday. Thanks to another monstrous day by receiver Sidney Rice (201 yards receiving), two rushing touchdowns by Adrian Peterson and a Vikes defense that simply shut down the Lions. Granted most teams do!

AD rushed for 133 yards along with his touchdowns of 22 yards and a 1 yard dive up the middle. In the first half Peterson and Harvin fumbled the exchange (pitch) on an end around. Detroit recovered. Also somehow Peterson was caught from behind and had the ball knocked out of his hands inside the Lions ten yard line too.

At half, Minnesota had DOMINATED the game, but was only up 10-0. The Lions started the second half fumbling the ball to the Vikes and that pretty much sealed the deal.

Brett Favre was 20 of 29 for 344 yards and one touchdown with ZERO picks. Favre continues to look amazing and clearly is the MVP of the NFL right now.

On defense, Ray Edwards was a MACHINE. He had two sacks and gave Matt Stafford hell all day long. Edwards made and amazing leap and drilled Stafford. It was ruled a penalty and it led to the Lions their lone touchdown of the game. After the game the NFL agreed the penalty should not have been called.

The only real concern in the game to me was how unnoticeable Jared Allen was. I understand you can’t dominate every game, but Allen was not a factor at all against Detroit. I’m assuming the blocking schemes of teams are gearing to stop him which plays a role in it.

Overall the Vikes are 8-1 with two winnable home games in the next two weeks (Seattle and Chicago). Assuming we win both of those the Vikes are 10-1 and clearly looking to half a first round bye in the playoffs.

I keep saying, if healthy this honestly could be the year. SUPER BOWL HOMEBOY!

Oh yeah on a total side note, once the NFL Playoffs start so does Newt’s playoff beard. Can’t wait! I encourage you to join in.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense – Sidney Rice
Defense – Ray Edwards
Special Teams – Ryan Longwell

Favre Leads Vikes Over Pack, Again

2009-11-06T17:33:00.001-06:00

Yeah, I know I’m about a week late on the review of the biggest game of the year so far. I blame a cousin’s wedding, Halloween in Deadwood, some car issues and the Timberwolves/Celtics Game. Sorry!

Anyways, Brett Favre returned to Lambeau Field and almost single handedly led the Minnesota Vikings over the Green Bay Packers, 38-26. This marked the SECOND time this year that Favre dominated his former team.

Favre was 17 of 28 for 244 yards and FOUR touchdowns. Brett Favre is a GAMER and he is a WINNER! If the Vikes stay healthy, WE ARE GOING TO THE SUPER BOWL!

The Packers scored first off a Viking turnover (shotgun snap to Favre when he wasn’t looking, likely John Sullivan’s fault). Vikes held Green Bay to a field goal.

Minnesota then had an amazing kick return to the 14 yard line by Percy Harvin. Thanks to an unsportsmanlike contact penalty, the Vikes scored on a one yard run from Adrian Peterson. 7-3, Vikes.

Visanthe Shiancoe caught a 12 yard touchdown pass and Ryan Longwell added a field goal to give the Vikes a 17-3 halftime lead.

Minnesota’s first drive in the second half resulted in a 51 yard Favre to Harvin touchdown where several Packers smashed in to each other and left Harvin free to run after the catch.

Then it got a little scary. Green Bay kicked a field goal and someone named Spencer Havner scored twice off Aaron Rodgers passes of 16 and 5 yards. 24-20, Minnesota.

Off another amazing Harvin return, Favre threw a two yard touchdown pass to Jeff Dugan to put the Vikes up 11.

The Pack answered with a Greg Jennings touchdown, but Favre sealed the deal with a 16 yard pass to Bernard Berrian.

Harvin ended the day with 5 catches for 84 yards including a touchdown and 175 yards on five kick returns. Can you say Rookie of the Year? What a GREAT pick he was!

Purple Jesus rushed for 97 yards on 25 carries including a touchdown.

The Vikes were again without cornerback Antoine Winfield. We need him back badly. His replacement is a hodgepodge of Benny Sapp, Karl Paymah and Asher Allen. Paymah should be cut, because he’s terrible, Allen is young and no good and Sapp is decent at best.

The Vikes defense was LIGHTS OUT in the first half, but made the game interesting in the second half. Not totally sure why.
One nice perk for the Packers is they apparently don’t call offensive holding on the home team in Green Bay. Minnesota had six sacks (Jared Allen – 3, Ray Edwards – 2 and Pat Williams – 1). Allen and Edwards were both monsters and beat up Rodgers.

Minnesota is 7-1 and atop the NFC North still. The Vikes appear on track to win the North and be a #1 or #2 seed in the playoffs. This year really could be magical. It’s amazing how good Favre, Peterson, Allen, Harvin and the Williams Wall is.

In the words of my homie Randy Moss, “SUPER BOWL HOMEBOY”!

NEWT'S GAME BALLS

Offense - Brett Favre

Defense - Jared Allen

Special Teams - Percy Harvin

Refs & Turnovers Doom Vikes

2009-10-25T15:35:00.002-05:00

The Minnesota Vikings fell to 6-1 after losing 27-17 in Pittsburgh. The Vikes were jobbed big time by the refs on Sidney Rice’s touchdown catch in the fourth quarter to go ahead. The refs called a tripping penalty on tight end, Jeff Dugan. On the next play, Favre was sacked and fumbled the ball. Lamar Woodley of Pittsburgh took it 77 yards for a touchdown to put the Steelers up 20-10. It should have been Minnesota up 17-13.

On the ensuing kickoff, Percy Harvin ran the kick back 88 yards for a touchdown. Dugan NAILED a ref and knocked him out of the game. I’m not one to be overly violent to the refs, but they were horrible today. I hope Dugan broke the guys hip! After the Harvin touchdown it was 20-17 Pittsburgh.

Minnesota got the ball back with 3:21 and two timeouts. The Vikes drove from their own 26 yards line inside the Steeler’s 20, thanks to Adrian Peterson crushing a Steeler on a reception and running another 15-20 yards. Then the unthinkable happened, screen pass to Chester Taylor who let the ball fly off the top of his hands into the hands of Keyaron Fox of the Steelers. Fox ran 82 yards for a touchdown. Game over.

The game started out bad for Minnesota. About an hour before kickoff it was announced that Vikings Defensive MVP, Antoine Winfield is out 4-6 weeks with a broken foot.

Minnesota couldn’t do anything on their first four drives of the game, but on drive number five they went 76 yards, capped by a Peterson two yard touchdown run to go up 7-3. Pittsburgh kicked a field goal after a Chris Kluwe 19 yard punt. WOW!

The Minnesota defense played soft zone with no pass rush to end the half and they got burned. Ben Roethlisberger connected with some nobody receiver on a 40 yard touchdown with 24 seconds to go before half.

Minnesota proved they could go on the road and hang with a solid team. The Vikes honestly should have won the game. Penalties (some made up and some actual) killed the Vikes and obviously the two Favre turnovers were costly in the fourth quarter.

It was a bad day for Visanthe Shiancoe. He only had four grabs for 27 yards. He also had two false start penalties and a drop or two.

Although Harvin was stellar on Special Teams, he dropped at least two balls. Granted he got nailed on one of them.

Peterson ended the day with 69 yards on 18 carries and 60 yards on four receptions.

Favre continues to have good chemistry with Rice. Rice had 11 catches for 136 yards including an AMAZING catch on third down in the second half. He also had that touchdown that was called back on a phantom trip.

Tight end, Jim Kleinsasser continues to prove worthless. The Sauce dropped a touchdown pass and basically serves no purpose on the Vikings. What a bum!

The Vikes D held Big Ben to 14 of 26 for 174 yards, but the one touchdown really hurt them right before the end of the first half.

Favre was 34 of 51 for 334 yards. He threw a pick and fumbled, both for touchdowns. Granted the pick was Taylor’s fault. I’m sure glad we take out Adrian “All Day” Peterson during the fourth quarter on the last drive of the game, so smart. And talk is that Brad Childress may get a contract extension. Holy shit!

Minnesota faces another tough road game next week at Green Bay. The Vikes need to find a way to win at Lambeau. It will be Favre’s return, but it will also be Aaron Rogers throwing all over the Vikes defense, especially without Winfield.

It was a tough loss today, but more so because I lost a case of beer and money on the game. Minnesota proved they are an elite team.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense – Sidney Rice
Defense – EJ Henderson
Special Teams – Percy Harvin

Favre Reason

2009-10-24T08:40:00.001-05:00

Vikes Avoid Disaster

2009-10-19T18:55:00.000-05:00

The Vikes beat the Baltimore Ravens thanks to a missed 44 yard field goal by Ravens kicker, Steve Hauschka. Minnesota won 33-31.

The game started great for the Vikes as they scored on their first two drives of the game. Brett Favre connected with Visanthe Shiancoe for a 19 yard touchdown to start the scoring and Bernard Berrian caught a four yard touchdown from Favre on the second drive.

At half Minnesota was up 14-3. Baltimore could barely get the ball across the 50 yard line. During the first half, Antoine Winfield went down with a foot injury. It was reveled today that Winfield has a sprained foot. His status for Sunday at Pittsburgh is unknown at this time.

In the third quarter Ravens running back, Ray Rice scored on a 22 yard run. Ryan Longwell nailed field goals of 40 and 22 in the third.

The fourth quarter is where DISASTER struck. Shiancoe caught a one yard touchdown to put Minnesota up 27-10, but then the Ravens went crazy or the Vikes defense fell apart. You pick. Baltimore scored THREE touchdowns in the fourth quarter and Ravens quarterback, Joe Flacco threw for 196 yards in the fourth quarter alone! Flacco ended up throwing for 385 yards. WOW!

Sidney Rice, who had the game of his life, caught a 58 yard BOMB from Favre to setup the Vikes game winning 29 yard field goal from Longwell. Rice ended the day with 176 yards on six catches. Favre was 21 of 29 for 278 yards including three touchdowns.

Adrian Peterson had two big runs and ended the day with 143 yards on 22 carries.

The Vikes are now 6-0 thanks to a little luck and a good game offensively by Favre, Rice and Shiancoe. However, the Viking defense appears VERY suspect. The front four struggled getting to Flacco and both Chad Greenway and Madieu Williams proved they can’t really tackle in the open field. Actually the WHOLE defense couldn’t tackle in the fourth.

The real story on defense was how BAD Winfield’s sub, Karl Paymah was. Paymah seriously is the WORST player in the NFL. He was absolutely clueless out there. Wow, is he bad!

Vikes play at Pittsburgh and at Green Bay in back to back weeks, winning one of those two would be great.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense – Sidney Rice
Defense- No one worthy
Special Teams – Ryan Longwell

Vikes Improve to 5-0

2009-10-11T17:32:00.000-05:00

In a game a little closer then the 38-10 score, the Minnesota Viking improved to 5-0 by beating the Rams in St. Louis.

The game couldn’t have started better for the Vikes. Minnesota took the opening drive 80 yards capped by a five yard Adrian Peterson touchdown run. On the Rams first possession, quarterback Kyle Boller fumbled the ball as Kevin Williams was running at him. Jared Allen scooped it and ran 52 yards for a touchdown, 14-0 Minnesota.

I think that heading in this had potential for a huge “letdown game” for Minnesota and I think after going up 14-0 early the boys somewhat lowered the intensity. St. Louis actually moved the ball nearly all day on the Vikes defense. Thanks to THREE red zone turnovers by the Rams, the Vikes dominated the day. Steven Jackson, who by the way said he was better then Peterson just not on as good of a team, fumbled on the Minnesota three yard line, Allen recovered. EJ Henderson had an interception on the Vikes ONE yard line and Tyrell Johnson had a pick in the end zone late in the game.

Brett Favre was 18 of 24 for 232 yards including a 13 yard touchdown to Visanthe Shiancoe. Favre also threw his ugliest pick as a Viking in the first half. By the way, Favre turned 40 yesterday. Percy Harvin had four catches for 66 yards, but he dropped a bomb that Favre placed perfectly in his hands.

Ryan Longwell nailed his only attempt, a 47 yarder in the first half to give the Vikes a 17-3 halftime lead.

By the end of the game, the Vikes had Tarvaris Jackson in at quarterback who led them on a touchdown drive capped by a Chester Taylor one yard run. Honestly though, how is T-Jack the backup quarterback over Sage Rosenfels?!? What if something ever did happen to Favre, we are gonna turn to T-Jack. God, I hope not!

Anyways, another win for the Minnesota Vikings. Although just looking at the score it looks like a TOTAL ass whippin’, it actually was a game for awhile. The Viking defense has some serious issues against the pass. The Viking linebackers struggle to cover tight ends and slants seem to be able to work on Antoine Winfield and Cedric Griffin. A guy who really played well today in the secondary was Benny Sapp. Sapp was all over the place making tackles.

At 5-0 the Vikes are atop the NFC North and host the Baltimore Ravens next Sunday. Guess what, I’m going to the game! After Baltimore the Vikes visit Pittsburgh and visiting Green Bay: three tough games that may really show everyone where the Vikes are actually at.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense – Brett Favre
Defense – Jared Allen
Special Teams – Ryan Longwell

Favre Leads Vikes Over Packers

2009-10-07T20:15:00.000-05:00

I’m a little behind thanks to Minnesota Twins playoff fever and having an actual fever. Being in person at the Vikings versus Packers Monday Night game was truly amazing. In Brett Favre “Revenge Game” against his former team, he played great. Favre was 24 of 31 for 271 yards including three touchdowns. Thanks mainly to Favre, the Vikes beat the Pack 30-23 at Metrodome.

The scoring started with a Favre to Visanthe Shiancoe one yard touchdown pass. Green Bay responded with a 62 yard pass by Aaron Rogers. In the second quarter, Favre threw a 14 yard strike to Sid the Kid Rice and Adrian Peterson ran in a touchdown from one yard out. AD’s score came after he earlier in the second quarter had the ball stripped for a touchdown. Peterson rushed for 55 yards on 25 carries.

In the third quarter Favre hooked up with Bernard Berrian on a 31 yard touchdown pass. Jared Allen, who had 4.5 sacks on the night, sacked Rogers in the end zone resulting in a safety. Green Bay scored 10 points late, but thanks to Rice recovering TWO Green Bay onside attempts, Minnesota sealed the deal.

The Vikes are now 4-0 and visit the horrible St. Louis Rams on Sunday.

Favre truly played amazing and he has been amazing as a Viking. With Sage Rosenfels or Tarvaris Jackson, I’m guessing the Vikes are 2-2 after four games. Favre wills the team to win and his veteran leadership is shown on the field.

This could be a magical year for the Vikes, but for it to be, Favre and Peterson need to remain healthy and the Viking defense needs to pull it together some. Rogers threw for 384 on the Vikes.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense – Brett Favre
Defense – Jared Allen
Special Teams – Sidney Rice

Brett Favre Magic

2009-09-29T17:56:00.000-05:00

So obviously I'm a little late on the blog post. Sorry, I was at the game and stayed over in Minneapolis on Sunday. Monday consisted of driving home, napping and then winning VIKING/PACKERS TICKETS!!!

I’ve been a quite a few games at Metrodome, but I must say the Vikes 27-24 win over San Fran rates up with the best of them. The place went absolutely NUTS when Brett Favre hit wide receiver, Greg Lewis in the back of the end zone for a 32 yard touchdown with TWO SECONDS left!

The game started out looking like the Vikes might dominate the 49er’s. Frank Gore went out with a high ankle sprain and Favre hit Sidney Rice for a nice 30 yard touchdown to put Minnesota up 7-0 early in the first quarter.

Ryan Longwell kicked a 40 and 52 yard field goal in the first half, but it was the blocked one that ended the half that really took the air out of the stadium. Nate Clements returned in 59 yards to end the first half. San Fran was up 14-13 at the midway point.

In the third quarter Percy Harvin housed a kickoff 101 yards to put the Vikes up 20-17, but Vernon Davis scored his second touchdown of the day to put San Fran back in the lead.

I’m not gonna lie, I had little faith with under 1:30 and ZERO timeouts that the Vikes were going to drive down the field and score, but somehow Lewis went in for Harvin (who was gassed) and Favre stepped up and threw likely the most memorable pass EVER at Metrodome. Unbelievable!

Favre threw for 301 yards on 46 attempts. He completed 24 of them. Favre also had his first interception as a Viking.

Adrian Peterson rushed for 85 yards on 19 carries and really was a non-factor except for a 35 yard run he had. Somehow San Fran does a great job of limiting Purple Jesus.

All in all, an amazing win for the now 3-0 Minnesota Vikings. The Niners are much better then I thought they were, but still the Vikes HAVE TO win those games at home. Obviously the Monday Night game versus Green Bay is HUGE! I’m already pumped, but the Vikes have some issues still.

Bernard Berrian struggled to catch the ball. I swear he dropped three or four that hit him in the hands. The only reason I remember him from the game was that he dropped so many and on one of the four he caught, Favre ran down the field and laid out 49er linebacker, Patrick Willis. Favre shouldn’t be doing that due to his age, but it was great!

Clearly the Vikings Special Teams still has some issues and linebacker Ben Leber struggled covering Vernon Davis on pass plays.

I going with some of my best boys to the game on Monday and honestly can’t wait. If the Vikes are 4-0 a week from today, good things could be in store for the 2009 Minnesota Vikings.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense - Greg Lewis
Defense - EJ Henderson
Special Teams - Percy Harvin

Random Tuesday Thoughts

2009-09-22T17:49:00.001-05:00

The Minnesota Vikings are 2-0 after two road games. That is the good news. The bad news is that the Vikes have been really slow starters in both of their games against teams that frankly aren’t very good. Adrian Peterson still is proving that he is the most dynamic and explosive player in the NFL and the Brett Favre experiment seems to be paying off so far.

Favre has been very consistent, but he hasn’t thrown many long balls (or at least completed many) through two games. Favre seems to be developing some rhythm with Vikes rookie wide receiver, Percy Harvin. Harvin has caught a touchdown pass in both games this season.

Another concern for the Vikes is the offensive line. Once again they seem to be able to maul the defense on runs, but Favre is getting hit and sacked on passes. Favre has been good about taking sacks versus throwing the wild “gunslinger” passes that often end up as a turnover. The Minnesota front five has got to step it up and protect Favre. With a healthy Peterson and Favre, this team has some SERIOUS potential.

The Vikes have looked fairly decent on defense. Teams have had more luck running on Minnesota through two games then I expected. I’m not really sure why that is. Kevin & Pat Williams still seem dominant and middle linebacker, EJ Henderson is all over the place making plays. Although the secondary hasn’t been tested much, they are a little suspect I think.

Minnesota hosts San Francisco on Sunday. Both teams are 2-0 and both teams want to continue to show they are a contender in the NFC. Even after two slow starts for the Vikes, I fully expect the squad to play a dominant game on Sunday. Am I a homer? Of course I am, but the Vikes should be able to stop Frank Gore and force the 49er’s to pass the ball. I think the Vikes look totally legit and beat the Niners 27-10 at Metrodome on Sunday. Oh and by the way, I will be there!

And speaking of games, last night I won tickets to the Vikings vs Packers at Metrodome on Monday Night. I was rockin’ the Purple Jesus shirt by the way for luck. Besides the birth of my son, possibly the second best thing that has ever happened to me. The next two weeks should be fun for the Vikes and if they can win both games, like they should, things will be looking bright for the Super Bowl bound Minnesota Vikings!

SKOL VIKES!

Vikes Beat the Lions

2009-09-20T20:08:00.002-05:00

Thanks to another big second half, the Minnesota Vikings defeated the Lions 27-13 in Detroit. On the day that Vikings’ quarterback, Brett Favre started his record setting 271st straight game in the regular season, Minnesota struggled early. Adrian Peterson fumbled a Favre handoff on the first series that led to a Lion field goal. It was 10-0 Detroit before Favre hooked up with Visanthe Shiancoe on a onee yard touchdown to make it 10-7 shortly before the first half ended.

To start the second half Minnesota sacked rookie quarterback, Matt Stafford twice in the first three plays. Jared Allen forced a fumble/had a sack and Ray Edwards had one on third down. Minnesota got the ball back drove down and Ryan Longwell hit on a 26 yard field goal to make it 10-10.

After Chad Greenway forced a fumble, Peterson scored on a 27 yard run to put the Vikes up for good. After another Longwell field goal (46 yards) and a Favre to Percy Harvin three yard touchdown, Minnesota scored 27 unanswered on the Lions. Detroit kicked a junk field goal late, but Greenway recovered the onside kick and that was basically the ball game.

Favre was 23 of 27 for 155 yards and two touchdowns.

Peterson had 92 yards on 15 carries including a touchdown. He also had 24 yards receiving.

Greenway had two interceptions, recovered a fumble and even caught the Lions onside as a member of the “hands team”.

All in all it turned out to be another good game for the Vikes thanks to a big second half for the second week in a row. I’m not sure why the Vikes are slow starters, but they need to start out looking good next week when they host the surprisingly also 2-0 San Francisco 49ers. By the way, I scored tickets to the game and I will be there!

Frank Gore will prove to be a test for the Vikes because for some reason so far this year that super stingy Vikes rush defense is looking a little shaky. Kevin Smith of the Lions ran for 83 yards on them today.

Thanks to the Cincinatti Bengals beating the Packers at Lambeau, Minnesota sits atop the NFC North solo in first place.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense – Brett Favre
Defense – Chad Greenway
Special Teams – Ryan Longwell

AD Leads the Purple to Victory

2009-09-13T16:06:00.001-05:00

Not only is Adrian Peterson a man, he is THE MAN. Adrian “All Day” Peterson rushed for 180 yards and three touchdowns including an amazing 64 yard burst in the second half. Peterson was dehydrated and had to have an IV put in his arm to get him better. He went on to score a one yard touchdown with blood gushing out of his arm. If Peterson remains healthy, he will go down as the GREATEST running back ever. No doubt. Kid is amazing!

Minnesota started the game off with a bad onside kick by Ryan Longwell. The Browns recovered and kicked a field goal to take the early lead. Thanks to a good Coaches Challenge by Brad Childress changed a Cleveland touchdown to a field goal. By the way, the only call should have been an Offensive interference. Anyways, the Vikes gave up a 67 yard punt return from Josh Cribbs shortly before the half and went into the locker room down 13-10.

In the second half Minnesota outscored Cleveland 24-7. The Browns touchdown was a late junk td. Brett Favre was 14 of 21 for 110 yards including a six yard touchdown pass to Percy Harvin. It was Favre’s first as a Vikes and Harvin’s first as a professional football player. How cool for Harvin? First touchdown caught was thrown by Brett Favre.

RANDOM NOTES
Kevin Williams recovered a fumble and Cedric Griffin had an interception.

Jared Allen was basically a no show today as Browns’ offensive tackle, Joe Thomas dominated him all day. The Browns selected Thomas over Peterson in the 2007 NFL Draft.

I hate Brian Billick as an announcer. Get a clue buddy! No idea on fumbles, challenges or basically anything!

The Vikes offensive line struggled against the blitz. Clearly Bryant McKinnie will NEVER become a pass blocker. He can maul on the run, but he is so slow out of his stance.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense – Adrian Peterson
Defense – Kevin Williams
Special Teams – Darius Reynaud

If healthy, the Minnesota Vikings are LEGIT. Peterson is a horse and Favre is a leader. If the defense can stop the run and apply pressure, look for good things from the 2009 Minnesota Vikings.

Oh yeah, you’re welcome for telling you to bet the farm on Minnesota!

Feelin’ Kinda Sunday

2009-09-11T18:50:00.000-05:00

The NFL Season for the Minnesota Vikings and their fans is only two days away. I can’t wait.

In the past couple days a few things have happened. Most notably, the Vikes cut wide receiver Bobby Wade and signed receiver Greg Lewis. You will be SHOCKED to know that Lewis is a former Eagle. Wade’s time seemed to be coming to an end since the Vikes drafted Percy Harvin. Harvin will be the Viking slot guy. Bernard Berrian, who is still nursing a hamstring, and Sidney Rice will be the Vikes starting receivers.

In the case hat never seems to die, Kevin and Pat Williams got another WIN as they both will likely be able to play the entire 2009 season without a suspension for their use of Starcaps, a weight reduction pill. Starcaps carried something banned by the NFL so the league continues to try and get them suspended for four games each. Let it go NFL!

Although Cleveland Head Coach won’t admit it, the Browns are going to start Brady Quinn at quarterback. I know it’s a road game and Favre is still very “new” to the Vikings, but I expect the Vikes to ROLL big in this game. I’m thinking Minnesota 31, Cleveland 10. Blowout city baby! If you want to make a few bucks, bet the Vikes big!

JDB Among Viking Cuts

2009-09-06T15:34:00.002-05:00

After unsuccessfully trying to shop quarterback, Tarvaris Jackson, Minnesota cut quarterback John David Booty. Booty was later added to the Vikes Practice Squad. Ian Johnson (RB), Garrett Mills (TE), Drew Radovich (OT), Colt Anderson (DB), Chris Clark (OT), Tremaine Johnson and Nick Moore (WR) round out the rest of the Practice Squad.

Other notables cut by Minnesota were: Marcus McCauley (CB), David Herron (LB) and Otis Grigsby (DE). McCauley was picked up by Detroit.

AD Steals the Show

2009-09-01T18:59:00.002-05:00

On a night where Brett Favre was going to be the story, Adrian “Purple Jesus” Peterson stole the show. On the first play from scrimmage Peterson took a Favre handoff and went 75 yards for a touchdown. AD is the MAN! Peterson finished the game with 117 yards on 11 carries.

Minnesota beat the Houston Texans 17-10 to improve to 3-0 on the Preseason. Clearly a Preseason record doesn’t matter, but it’s good to win. The major plus was that Favre looked more in sync with his receivers and the Vikings suffered no major injuries.

Favre played into the third quarter and was 13 of 18 for 142 yards including a 28 yard touchdown pass to Chester Taylor (pictured). Favre also hit Percy Harvin in the HANDS in the end zone, but P-Harv dropped it. Overall Favre looked more comfortable at quarterback and even threw a block (granted a dirty one at a guy’s knees) on a Harvin run that was out of the Wildcat. Harvin was quarterback, Peterson was tailback and Favre was at receiver. What a fun formation!

The Vikes offensive line struggled a little bit against the pass as blitzes seem to confuse the team some.

The Vikes starting defense played solid again as Ray Edwards, Jared Allen and Antoine Winfield really stood out. Ben Leber and Madieu Williams both had interceptions.

I’m not gonna lie, I’m pumped for the regular season. If the Vikes stay healthy, they are a legit contender. The defense is solid and Peterson is clearly the best back in the NFL. With Favre’s leadership and the playmaking ability of Harvin, Sidney Rice and once dog, now stud, Vinsanthe Shiancoe, Minnesota will be in the playoffs and they will be dangerous.

The Vikes final Preseason game is this Friday against Dallas. Not many of the starters are expected to play.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense – Adrian Peterson
Defense – Antoine Winfield
Special Teams – Ryan Longwell

Favre’s Viking Debut

2009-08-23T16:58:00.000-05:00

Yeah so I know this is a little past due, but the Vikings beat the Kansas City Chiefs in Preseason game two by a score of 17-13 at Metrodome. It really doesn’t matter that they won, but it was the debut of Brett Favre as a Minnesota Viking.

Not gonna lie, it does look weird to see Favre in purple. Favre only played two series and went 1 of 4 for four yards. The Chiefs showed some blitzes and besides Favre looking a little rusty, the Vikes offensive line looked shaky at best.

Favre said after the game he was really nervous and was happy how things went. No major injuries to speak of for the Vikes and now with only two Preseason games left, Favre needs to get on the same page as the Minnesota receivers.

Now Vikes backup Sage Rosenfels didn’t play in the game due to an ankle injury. Tarvaris Jackson played rather well going 12 of 15 for 202 yards including two touchdowns. Visanthe Shiancoe caught a 13 yarder and Darius Reynaud scored on a 64 yard pass.

Adrian Peterson carried the ball ten times for 44 yards.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS
Offense – Tarvaris Jackson
Defense – Jasper Brinkley
Special Teams –Percy Harvin

Favre Signs with Vikes

2009-08-19T18:06:00.001-05:00

Been to busy celebrating to blog, Brett Favre signed with the Minnesota Vikings yesterday. This is GREAT news. I’m seriously now so excited for the upcoming season. More on Favre later.

Super Bowl homeboy!

Harvin Helmet

2009-08-17T21:30:00.001-05:00

Not totally sure why I thought I needed more Vikings swag, but I did. Above is the latest addition, a Percy Harvin signed Minnesota Vikings helmet.

SKOL VIKES!

Vikes Top Colts in Preseason Opener

2009-08-14T21:37:00.001-05:00

Thanks to a solid outing by Vikings starting quarterback (for the game) Sage Rosenfels, the Minnesota Vikings defeated the Colts in Indianapolis 13-3 in the Preseason opener for both teams.

Rosenfels led the Vikes on a long first drive that included two fourth down conversions, to a touchdown. Chester Taylor had a great five yard sweep to the left side to put Minnesota up 7-0.

Rosenfels ended the day 10 of 13 for 91 yards. Most of the passes were quick hitters and play action passes. The once goat, Vinsanthe Shiancoe had a nice game (first quarter), that included four catches for 55 yards. Shiancoe really turned it on last year and GULP, may be a legit tight end in this league.

Adrian “All Day” Peterson only played the opening series and had four carries for 20 yards. AD showed his burst on his 13 yard carry. Can’t wait to watch Purple Jesus in the regular season!

The Vikes defense looked solid as the starters sacked Peyton Manning three times on the Colts opening series. Ray Edwards, Jared Allen and Fred Evans all got to Manning early. Granted the Colts O was without Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark, but the Vikes starting D looked good.

Unfortunately we didn’t get a look at Percy Harvin due to a minor shoulder injury. He was a game time decision and didn’t play. I was looking forward to watch P-Harv, but I guess something to look forward to next week.

The only real injury during the game was that Bernard Berrian appeared to have injured a hamstring. The result of the injury has not yet been disclosed. Hope it’s nothing major!

For as good as Rosenfels looked, Tarvaris Jackson was the opposite. T-Jack looked terrible going 7 of 15 for 39 yards. Granted he was with the second and third teamers, but T-Jack is a mess. Is he athletic? Yes. Can he read a defense/blitz or realize when pressure is on him? HELL NO! Jackson will get the start next week, but I’m guessing Rosenfels is the Vikes starter Week One.

Vikes kicker Ryan Longwell was two for two with field goals of 35 & 36 yards.

South Dakota native kicker Taylor Mehlhaff missed a 51 yarder. He made it at 46, but there was a penalty.

Another bright spot for the Vikes was running back, Albert Young. Young rushed for 58 yards on 14 carries and appeared to have a nice burst in him. Young appears to have a lock on the third running back spot for Minnesota.

All in all not an amazing game, but kinda what you expect in the Preseason. Rosenfels was solid. New center, John Sullivan played well, rookie Phil Loadholt was iffy starting at right tackle and the starting Vikes defense looked good.

Next game is next Friday, August 21 versus the Kansas City Chiefs at Metrodome.

NEWT’S GAME BALLS:
Offense – Sage Rosenfels
Defense – Ray Edwards
Special Teams – Ryan Longwell

Camp Update

2009-08-06T18:00:00.001-05:00

ALLISON
In a somewhat surprising move, the Vikes cut wide receiver, Aundrae Allison. Allison was a 5th Round pick by the Vikes in 2007. Allison was mainly used as a kickoff/punt returner, including a 104 yard kick return against the Lions in 2007.

Allison was picked up by the Jets. I was surprised because earlier this off-season I read how Cris Carter was hyping Allison up and saying he thought he could really step it up this year.

Allison was behind Bernard Berrian, Sidney Rice, Percy Harvin and Bobby Wade on the wide receiving depth chart.

T-JACK IS BACK
Tarvaris Jackson is back practicing and he says his knee feels good. T-Jack is back splitting reps with Sage Rosenfels and the first team offense.

HARVIN LOOKING GOOD
Percy Harvin caught some nice balls today from both Rosie and T-Jack. Harvin appears the “real deal”. Minnesota even worked on their version of the Wildcat today with both Harvin and Chester Taylor taking snaps at quarterback.

WILLIAMS WALL
Although legal proceeding are still ongoing, it appears both Kevin Williams and Pat Williams are going to beat the NFL in the Starcaps case. The NFL wants the Williams Wall suspended for four games, but the Williams’ keep winning legal battle after legal battle, to which the NFL always says they will appeal.

Vikes Sign Harvin

2009-08-02T12:23:00.002-05:00

Percy Harvin, the Minnesota Vikings First Round pick signed a five year deal with the team today. Harvin will battle for a starting wide receiver spot and is a dynamic player that can be used out of the backfield and at quarterback ala “The Wildcat”.

This is GOOD news. Harvin is expected to be at practice yet this afternoon. Personally I can’t wait to watch Harvin play. I think he is the real deal and adds another huge playmaker to the Vikes Offense.

Who’s gonna get him the ball? Now that’s another story!

T-Jack Hurt

2009-08-01T12:49:00.003-05:00

Not exactly the ideal start to Training Camp. On Day 2 of Camp, Vikings quarterback, Tarvaris Jackson was tripped/rolled into by defensive tackle Letroy Guion. T-Jack hobbled off the field and appears to have a sprained MCL.

If only a Grade I sprain as it appears, then Jackson will be day-to-day. If it proves to be more severe, Jackson couple be out multiple weeks.

I guess now it’s time for Sage Rosenfels to shine.

Vikes Open Camp

2009-08-01T08:18:00.000-05:00

The Minnesota Vikings opened up Training Camp in Mankato, MN yesterday. They were without Brett Favre (yes, I’m done with that story. Favre is DEAD to me) and without First Round pick, Percy Harvin (remains unsigned).

Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels split reps with the first team as the quarterback battle will be the most interesting one going on at camp.

Second Round pick, Phil Loadholt (OT) is signed as likely will start at right offensive tackle. The o-line likely will be Bryant McKinnie, Steve Hutchinson, John Sullivan, Anthony Herrera and Loadholt.

Cornerback, Charles Gordon was waived. He just never could recover from his leg injury from last year. Too bad to year, Gordon showed signs of promise. It now appears his NFL career is over.

On a related sad note, Kenechi Udeze (DE) announced his retirement. Udeze’s cancer remains in remission but he has struggled with neuropathy in his feet. That has been one of the side effects of his chemotherapy treatments. Best wishes to Udeze outside of football.

More on Camp as it continues.

Also can’t forget, eight years ago today… RIP Korey “Big K” Stringer.

No Favre, No Cry

2009-07-28T18:41:00.002-05:00

So after a three month flirtation with the Minnesota Vikings, 39 year old quarterback, Brett Favre informed Viking’s Head Coach, Brad Childress he will remain retired.

To me this is unbelievable. He led the Vikes on like a “hot MILF (or maybe Cougar – take your pick)” who talks you into leaving your wife for her after a three month affair and then says “ah never mind.” What an asshole!!!

Favre played 18 years in the NFL, 17 of those with the hated Green Bay Packers. After the ugly split with the Pack and the weapons the Vikes offense has, I thought Favre was a LOCK for Minnesota.

As bad as I currently hate the NFL All-Time Interceptions Thrown leader, Mr. Favre, I will admit I had come to terms and was ready for him to be a Vike. At first I was like “hell no” I don’t want him, then I looked at what we had/have – Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels. I quickly changed my mind and was willing to take a chance with Favre.

I honestly do think he is a drama queen who needs attention, but it would have been fun for at least one year to see him as a Viking and to piss off those Packer fans!

Unfortunately time to move on, the Vikings starting quarterback in 2009 will be Jackson or Rosenfels. By the way, if you even suggest Michael Vick, you are a complete dumbass!

Jackson is a three year NFL veteran who proved in the Vikes playoff game against the Eagles that he has no clue how to read an NFL blitz yet. Jackson’s career numbers are 306 of 524 for 3,442 yards including 20 touchdowns and 18 interceptions.

Rosenfels is an eight year NFL veteran who has been a career backup. Rosenfels’ career numbers are 351 of 562 for 4,156 yards including 30 touchdowns and 29 interceptions.

On paper they are basically the same guy. I expect Rosenfels to win the quarterback battle and think that if he can cut down on turnovers and complete a third down occasionally the Vikes will be ok.

I mean even I could hand off to Adrian “All Day” Peterson! Percy Harvin joins Bernard Berrian, Bobby Wade and Sidney Rice as a decent receiving corp. So although it would have been fun with Favre, the Vikes will be okay without him. At least I hope so…