PFW/ESPN Insider Preview

http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/preview05/news/story?id=2146883
By Sean JensenPro Football Weekly
Editor's note: These grades were assigned by the individual correspondent and not by Pro Football Weekly.
Not only did the Vikings change ownership in the offseason, from San Antonio car salesman Red McCombs to New Jersey real-estate developer Zygi Wilf, they also overhauled their long-suffering defense and shipped away one of their superstars, WR Randy Moss.
The departure of Moss and McCombs is significant, altering the dynamics of the team drastically. McCombs demanded greatness while financially handcuffing the team. In just months, Wilf has expressed a similar goal, but he's shown a willingness to pay for a championship-caliber team.
On the field, the Vikings no longer have Moss to instill fear in the hearts of defensive coordinators. But Moss' moodiness, durability (he tore his hamstring last year and has had recurring back and ankle injuries) and attitude were all questioned. Moss was traded to Oakland, but the Vikings believe QB Daunte Culpepper can utilize a handful of receiving options, and that a significantly upgraded defense will help Minnesota achieve its overall goals.
An influx of veterans, for whom the Vikings paid an astounding $23 million in guaranteed money, has been brought on board. Sam Cowart provides veteran stability at middle linebacker, QB Brad Johnson provides yet another veteran safety blanket to back up Culpepper, DT Pat Williams gives the Vikings their first legitimate nose tackle in over five years, FS Darren Sharper is an all-around performer with Pro Bowl credibility, WR Travis Taylor provides another reliable option for Culpepper and CB Fred Smoot completes the team's best CB duo, along with Antoine Winfield, in over a decade.
The key issue is whether all of those changes impact the product on the field immediately, or if it will take more time than expected for all of the new parts to jell.


Quarterbacks -- Culpepper is coming off consecutive Pro Bowl appearances, and he looks to prove that Moss was not the crutch on which his success was built. Culpepper looked brilliant in the preseason, working through a slow start by his offensive line and scrambling away from sacks while managing to make remarkable plays.
Johnson, a former Super Bowl quarterback, is the top backup. Thus far, Johnson has looked solid enough, showing that he can still excel in this league. Third QB Shaun Hill has made a lot of highlight plays this preseason, both through the air and on the ground. He's got deceptive athleticism, and he usually makes sound decisions, all of which help him overcome an unspectacular arm. Grade: A-plus.


Running backs -- With Onterrio Smith suspended for the entire season for violating the NFL's substance-abuse policy, Michael Bennett has been handed the starting job. Hampered by injuries the last two years, including a preseason neck sprain that may keep him out of the opener, Bennett is running as fast as ever, and he hopes to return to his Pro Bowl form of 2002, when he ran for 1,296 yards.
Tice has predicted Bennett can rush for 1,600 yards, although Bennett averaged less than three yards per carry in the first two preseason games. Bennett should be motivated, though, as he is eligible for free agency next March. If he struggles, though, the Vikings have the utmost confidence in Mewelde Moore, who had the best three-game stretch by a running back in team history last year as a rookie.
Moore is a good all-around back with a knack for making the first defender miss. The concern about Moore is his durability and toughness, as he missed a critical stretch of games last season with an ankle injury. Veteran Moe Williams and rookie Ciatrick Fason round out this deep unit. Williams made some of the team's biggest plays last year, and he remains an asset because of his intelligence and reliability.
Tice trusts Williams around the goal line and on key third downs. Fason was having an excellent preseason until he was injured in mid-August. Fason could be back by Week One. Grade: B-plus.


Receivers -- Subtract Moss, add a more confident Nate Burleson, a healthy Marcus Robinson, a speedy rookie (Troy Williamson) and a capable veteran (Taylor), and what do you have? You have the Vikings' new WR corps. Moss was the go-to guy. But Culpepper is quietly relieved because he does not feel pressure to force the ball to one player.
Burleson is a consummate professional, working hard on every play and being the ultimate team player. He topped 1,000 yards last season, and he displayed toughness and an ability to make clutch plays. The question was whether he could handle facing the opposing team's top cornerback. That hasn't been a problem for him so far in practice, going against Winfield, or in preseason action vs. the Chiefs, Jets and Chargers.
Meanwhile, Robinson has dropped a lot of passes this preseason, losing his No. 2 spot to the more dependable Taylor. But Robinson remains a force because he keeps making some explosive plays, and he has the ability, because of his size, to be an asset in the red zone. Taylor hasn't done anything phenomenal. But he is an excellent slot receiver and was consistent in the preseason.
Williamson missed the early part of camp due to a holdout, and he missed another chunk because of a foot injury. He also dropped some passes upon his arrival. But he has played well at times. Williamson showcased his speed against the Jets, showing why the Vikings chose him instead of the more proven Mike Williams.
At tight end, Jim Kleinsasser isn't a fantasy superstar. But the Vikings lamented his season-ending knee surgery in the opener last year. Culpepper argues that Kleinsasser is the NFL's best blocking tight end, and he could have been vital last year when ORT Mike Rosenthal was lost for the season in the second game.
Kleinsasser is a strong blocker, but he does not excel after the catch. That's why Jermaine Wiggins complements him so well. Wiggins has a knack for getting open, and he has a knack for making clutch plays. Wiggins led the team in catches last season with 71. Grade: B-plus.


Offensive linemen -- On paper, this was one of the NFL's better units before a hip injury forced Pro Bowl C Matt Birk to strongly consider surgery. Without Birk, who could miss three months or the entire season if he opts for the operation, the Vikings' O-line has looked pedestrian at best, unable to spring Bennett for any meaningful runs before camp ended.
The pass blocking has also been shaky, as Culpepper has been consistently flushed out of the pocket. Rosenthal appears to have fully recovered from his foot injury, and OLT Bryant McKinnie has been solid. The question marks are inside. Rookie Marcus Johnson, a second-round pick, is poised to start at right guard, meaning veteran Chris Liwienski could return to left guard. C Cory Withrow now starts, but he's a big step down from Birk. OG Adam Goldberg, who failed to secure a starting spot, provides depth. Grade: C-plus.


Defensive linemen -- All-Pro DT Kevin Williams is poised for another monstrous season, especially with the signing of NT Pat Williams. The veteran nose tackle could give Kevin Williams and the team's young defensive ends more freedom to make plays. Last year's second-round pick, Darrion Scott, has looked solid at right end, and Kenechi Udeze, the Vikings' top pick in 2004, looks healthier.
More impressive is the fact the Vikings have tremendous depth in this unit, with veterans Lance Johnstone (11 sacks in '04) and Steve Martin and promising young players such as Spencer Johnson and '05 first-round pick Erasmus James. Johnson could be the jack-of-all-trades. He can play outside and inside, and his production per play is unmatched, according to DL coach Brian Baker. Sixth-round pick C.J. Moseley has also looked solid so far with good inside quickness. Grade: A-minus.


Linebackers -- The Vikings aggressively tried to address this position in the offseason, but it remains a question mark heading into the season. Newcomers Napoleon Harris, obtained from Oakland in the Moss trade, and Cowart have looked solid, but neither has looked spectacular. E.J. Henderson, a former second-round pick, is now starting at weak-side linebacker. He's not nearly as athletic and fast as backup Dontarrious Thomas, but the team is confident in Henderson's tackling and instincts.
Keith Newman is no longer starting on the strong side, but he will be featured in some packages that will utilize his pass-rushing skills. Cowart is the key to this unit's success. A former Pro Bowl player, Cowart is playing on a one-year deal in hopes of showing he's still got something left in his tank. Grade: B-minus.


Defensive backs -- Arguably the most talented and certainly the team's deepest position, the Vikings have slowly and steadily rebuilt a long-ignored unit. The Vikings tried for years to draft cornerbacks, but all they were able to hang their collective hats on was Brian Williams, the current nickel cornerback. With no luck via the draft, the Vikings decided to buy talent, first signing Winfield, then project Ralph Brown, who has picked off at least five passes in training camp.
Smoot hasn't played much during the preseason due to neck and knee injuries, but he certainly is the team's top cover corner, and he offers tremendous flexibility because of his range and talent. As for Williams, he has had an uneven preseason and is playing for a contract.
At safety, Sharper and Corey Chavous are both Pro Bowl-approved safeties with a track record for being highly productive, all-around players. Both, however, struggled last year, Sharper with injuries, and Chavous with his play. Through the preseason, though, no defensive player has played as consistently and as well as Sharper, and Chavous also has contributed his share of big plays. Depth is also solid, with Willie Offord and former CB Ken Irvin in backup roles. Grade: B-plus.


Special teams -- Aaron Elling and Paul Edinger are still engaged in a battle for the starting spot. Elling appears to have the inside track because of his familiarity with head coach Mike Tice and his ability to handle kickoffs better. Both have been accurate on FG attempts. P Darren Bennett still shows tremendous touch, and he once in a while booms a 60-yard punt, which shows that his leg is very much alive.
Bouts of inconsistency by Bennett this preseason leave the door slightly open for Travis Dorsch. Cullen Loeffler is a solid, dependable long-snapper. Williamson is the favorite for the KR job, if his foot is OK. Moore has done a good job filling in, and he would be just fine for the Vikings at this position. Grade: C.

Mike Tice Thoughts

This week, I'm not going to give any Pre-Game comments, only post game comments for the Game versus Seattle. This is due to the uncertain situation about how much players are going to play. I expect a Vikings Loss by the way. I think against Tampa Bay they are going to have a tight ball game. I have seen mulitple remarks to Mike Tice's job security this week, so I figure I better comment on them.

The First comment comes from Jeremy Green. http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?id=2142807 at ESPN Insider

Mike Tice, Minnesota VikingsHe replaced Dennis Green (my father) after the 2001 season and took over a talented team that had been a regular playoff participant. Tice has made one playoff appearance in his first three seasons and it is generally accepted that his teams have underachieved. So this offseason, the Vikings underwent a major makeover. Gone is the so-called "cancer" Randy Moss. The belief is his departure will improve team chemistry. The defense has been overhauled (DC Fred Smoot, OLB Napoleon Harris and FS Darren Sharper have been added) and it looks like this team is more balanced than in previous seasons. Is this the year the Vikings will get over the hump? One thing is for sure -- Tice is working on the last year of his contract with a new ownership group in place. Will 10 wins and an early playoff loss be enough for Tice? Only time will tell.


He's wrong when he calls the 2001 team talented that team had about a half-dozen good players, a terrible O-line, and a bad Defense. The Defense was so bad they didn't have one player that would be considered good. So the team was down talent wise when Mike Tice took over.

I can't really speak to if Randy Moss was a "Cancer", and if his attitude distracted them from winning. I thought poor coaching, and a lousy defense had more to do with it, than Randy Moss' attitude. We shall see though.

PFW also commented on the situation, and they didn't really add anything new.

Charley Walters in the Pioneer Press today said the Vikings look like a 9-7 team and that deserves Mike Tice a contract extension.

My thoughts

1. Jeremy Green is dreaming if he thinks the 2001 Minnesota Vikings were anything close to a playoff team. As I said they had really gaping holes for a recap of their roster
http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/rosters.nsf/Annual/2001-min

2. The Vikings talent has no doubt improved under Tice bringing in players like Kevin Williams, Antoine Winfield, and Nate Burleson. But if the final product goes from a 6-0 start in 2003, to a 9-7 team in 2005. With a playoff win in-between. The progress on the field, is not correlating with the talent.

3. In 2003-The Vikings lost two late season games at Chicago and Arizona which they dominated. The reason they lost is because the Offense would play it so close to the vest they wouldn't let Daunte Culpepper throw in critical situations. This lack of balance. For instance at Chicago 393 yards with 10 points to 232 yards for the Bears. Versus Arizona 342 to 219 for yards, yet 17 points. The Cardinals had 98 yards more than half way through the forth.

4. The two 3-7 collaspes. I really don't know what injuries would have seriously contributed to such a collaspe.

5. The fact the only game they won in their last 5 regular season games last year, was versus a bad Lions team thanks to a botched extra point. This was no way indiciative of their talent.

6. Records of teams they lost to the second half of seasons.
2003-NYG 4-12, SD 4-12, OAK 4-12, CHI 7-9, Ariz 4-12, GB 10-6, Stl 12-4.

2004-NYG 6-10, Was 6-10, CHI 5-11, Sea 9-7, GB 10-6(2X), Ind 12-4.

So 8 of the 14 losses have been to teams that were below .500
They have lost games to the following starting QB's: Chad Hutchinson, Rex Grossman, Doug Flutie, Josh McCown, Rick Mirer, and Patrick Ramsey.

Conclusion: The Vikings have had serious coaching problems in the second half of seasons. I'm not sure if it's motivation, or just very poor X's and O's work. Loses like these are a sign of bad coaching. So the next question is what do I want for Mike Tice to get an extension.

I would look at anything less than a NFC title game berth as a lose cause, if all circumstances stay the way they are. I guess a real competive loss in the NFC semis would let me sign off. But their are things that could affect this. If Daunte Culpepper gets injured and Brad Johnson goes 8-8, since he really can't play, then I would have to agree to a Tice Extension. If the Vikings end real strong then I might look at things different (E.G. 0-5 start with 9-7 finish). It is basically going to come down to if I think the Vikings are a better team than the team that ended the 2003 season.

Post-Game thoughts

The Vikings didn't do one thing to impress me Friday Night.

The First Team Defense let a Chargers First Team Offense, without Antonio Gates, and Ladanian Tomlinson move down the field at will. Included in that drive were two conversions on 3 and 10, the first of which was made from a 2 and 19. Then they let Keenan McCardell walk into the End Zone uncontested on third and 10. EJ Henderson did play a good game. But their were two many times the Linebackers and Safeties left the middle of the field uncontested. This rarely happens against Good Defenses like the Patriots last year. The second team Chargers Offense still sort of moved down the field a bit, and I was gasping as the Vikings First Team D got carved up for three plays in the second half by Cleo Lemon, Raef Perkins, and Ahmeed Galloway. The Galloway play was atricious linebacker coverage. The question is the Vikings D better than last year? They should be based on talent but their safety play needs to greatly improve. We will learn that September 11.

Mewelde Moore had only 6 carries for 21 yards. Moore's 12 yard run was pure him, as he found room with none there. He did have a six yard run which was actually keyed by a nice-block by Marcus Johnson. Other than that he had nothing. Moore is still their best running back, barring how seriously his ankle is dinged up. Next Friday in Sunday it could be Moe Williams and Adinome Echemandu getting the bulk of the carries. If the Vikings don't run the ball better, they will have a hard time getting the offensive production to be better than a .500 team.

The O-Line has gotten better every week. They did do a nice job of Pass-Protection yesterday, granted it was against San Diego's backup D-line, but they did pretty well in the first drive. They actually had runs springed by nice blocks Johnson's block as I mentioned earlier, and Adam Goldberg who sprung loss Echemandu on his touchdown.

I think Adam Goldberg should get a look at starting Center. He's a better run-blocker than Corey Withrow, and that's what the Vikings really need. Although he is a far cry from Matt Birk. I will watch this battle, next friday versus Seattle.

Brad Johnson despite what people think isn't very good. He has no arm strength. He did side-arm a pass to Keenan Howry I believe that was a nice throw. But his arm just isn't there anymore. If Culpepper was lost for the season tommorrow the Vikings would win around 6 games.

I would note about Culpepper that his preseason performance is going against a lot of looks that aren't all that creative. So basically I am saying I don't expect Culpepper to play against Tampa like has in the Pre-Season. Though I do expect a very good season.

Ralph Brown is better in coverage than Brian Williams, he should be the Nickel Corner, and that's the end of that conversation.

I think I might be willing to admit I sold short Troy Willamson, his speed, and balance will make him a player in the NFL. The Vikings WR's are actually pretty good. They are down on my list of problems. I would rather have him than Braylon Edwards, or Mike Williams based on what I have seen so far.

The Minnesota Vikings kicker will be Paul Edinger after the way he kicked last night. I think the punting battle could still be up for grabs. I do think if Aaron Elling is healthy he will be on an NFL roster.

The Vikings have atricious kick coverage, and needs to be fixed pronto. I don't know that they get any benefit from putting players like Antoine Winfield on the field here. Either the techinque is bad or something. The problem was the Kickoffs Paul Edinger was having.

We probably will not see more than a quarter out of the first time next week, so the emphasis will be on players trying to make the team.

Vikings vs Chargers Preview-Matt Birk Thoughts

To loss Matt Birk would be a devasting loss on their Running game, which would be a devasting loss to their offense. It should be noted I don't know how effect he would be with his injury. Should the Vikings guarntee him the Money to play? I don't know what I think. I don't know that you guarntee 4 million dollars to a guy who has missed a season and a half. This will be a devasting loss to the Vikings Offense though.

As far as Friday Night's game. Maybe up to 3 quarters of the Vikings 1st team against a very good Offense. Things I will look for.

1. Fred Smoot and how much his presence improves the Vikings D
2. Troy Williamson with the Vikings 1st team Offense.
3. If the Vikings will finally be able to run the Ball with Mewelde Moore starting
4. Can the Vikings more effectively blitz.
5. What Vikings D will we see, the one with 3 three and outs in the first half, or the atricious unit that gave up 2 touchdowns.
6. Will the O-line keep improving albeit slowly.

Here's what I expect to see

1. The Vikings to actually run the ball more effectively with Mewelde Moore, and I think this will lead to a couple Vikings scores in the first half, I think the Vikings new look d wouldn't overly impress either to the hot Chargers O, I'm thinking something like 14-13 Vikings at the half.

2. Brad Johnson to struggle, and the Vikings Offense to struggle in the second half. But the Vikings D to play well. Rod Davis has to make the team. But in the end I like the Chargers back-ups due to Viking RB injuries, I'll say 23-20 Chargers.

Matt Birk

The Sunday Star Tribune is reporting that he might not play in the season opener. This should be cause for concern. The Running Game went in the tank without Birk last year look at their running stats once he got dinged after the Indy game. Corey Withrow is OK against the pass, but can't get create any sort of running lanes like Matt Birk did for Onterrio Smith on his 4th quarter touchdown versus the Colts, last year. We shall see with this story. In other news, the same article reports T.Will will get some First-Team action this week in practice..

Vikings vs Jets

The Good- Daunte Culpepper who looked poised and was spreading the Ball around.

Pat Williams-The Run D was good tonight, and big Pat kept getting big pushes.

Travis Taylor-Moving into the starting lineup, and making a tough third-down catch in traffic.

The O-Line Pass Blocking: Run Blocking is a total different story but without Liwenski and Birk they actually blocked on passing downs quite well.

The three three and outs on Defense in the first half, again the other two series were beyond attricious.

Troy Williamson-Two big catches, and a good first performance before the injury bug got him. He's no Moss, but I was pleased.

Rod Davis-I like him as a football player, he did a nice job in the Middle in the second half.

The Bad-
Brian Williams-The way he got burned on two touchdowns, getting beat by 5 yards on the Coles one, and falling down on the other one.

The Broadcasting-They often had no idea people might be intrested in getting breakdown of the game, and instead liked to ask players Generic questions.

The D-Line-When they were blitzing they still were not putting on pressure. I should note that Kevin Williams hasn't looked all that good in the first two games.

Penalities-This needs no explaination, if it wasn't for penalities, Daunte Culpepper might have led the Vikings to scores on Every Drive.

Adrian Ward-Three pass interference penalties?

Special Teams-Let's see a botched onside kick since someone was offsides, a missed field goal, a long punt return by the Jets, and a fumbled punt return.

Micheal Bennett- In all fairness to Bennett, the Run Blocking was horrible, the one time he had a sliver of daylight in went for about 5 yards. But speed backs need great O-lines, this helped Robert Smith immensly. Although Smith had better vision than Bennett. I hope Mewelde Moore who had a medicore ypc tonight, gets some action with Daunte on the field next week. Moore fought for yards, and got what was there. Bennett would just get crushed.

Brad Johnson: Yikes. Shaun Hill after the Vikings tied the score really yikes, although in Hill's defense all the position players out their with him, should be cut this week.

Overall: I had a good taste in my mouth till those two horrible possesions on Defense in the second quarter, then the sloppy play at the start of the Second Half was too much. Troy Willamson, and the Reserve D brighened my day though. At least, the Twins won.

Randy Moss

I wasn't going to blog till either later tonight or Saturday in regard to the Vikings/Jets game. But I figured I better respond to what Randy Moss said about smoking Dope.

A. This doesn't surprise me that Moss would be so bone-headed to admit to such a thing. It is of no shock that he does it after they found some in his Lexus in 2002. Behavior like this is why the Vikings only got a medicore Linebacker, and a very raw Wide Receiver for a future hall of famer. Will he get suspended, no but the NFL doesn't like to look stupid, and will start testing him left and right.

B. The next question is who would I rather have between TO and Randy Moss, still Moss. Moss is younger, and Moss has less known public conflicts with teammates and coaches.

C. Are the Raiders going to regret this trade, not when Moss puts up 1500 yards, and 15 scores they won't.

D. It should also be noted that some people have questioned Napoloen Harris' attitude at Camp, as he has claimed to be annointed as the starter since he was traded for Randy Moss.

E. Is Moss attention-starved? I don't know if it so much that but rather that Moss has no such thing as tact or sutility. This is why he cursed out the team sponsors, why he said he would never win a Super Bowl in Minnesota, said the Owner was cheap.

F. Would I still want Randy Moss on my favorite football team, Yes. Moss is a Superstar in every sense of the word. He opened up the Vikings Offense by himself, he made Gus Frerotte blow up for three games. Randy Moss had disagreements with Teammates like Matt Birk, but I haven't heard anything to indicate he was the lockerroom cancer of Terrell Owens. This statement was silly in that he said it, not shocking in its contents.

G. Randy Moss isn't a good role-model for young kids. This is true, but what Randy Moss is a football player. If one wanted good role-models they are all over the place. The idea that Randy Moss job is to set example for kids instead of Parents, and those in a community is silly.

This is all I am saying about this.

Vikings vs Jets Preview

Here's what I expect

*The Vikings 1st team Defense to look better against a rusty Chad Pennington. I wouldn't get my hopes too far up based on a good performance tommorrow night.

*It is kind of hard to evaluate Daunte Culpepper in the Pre-Season since opposing teams always play Base Defenses, and Culpepper is generally caused problems by different schemes that one doesn't see a lot of in the Pre-Season. For instance in 2001, Culpepper was terrific in the pre-season, since teams played just base defenses, and then reeked it up in going 5-11. Culpepper doesn't play more than a quarter.

*The Vikings Offensive Line to improve, though still not any better than medicore. If they block again like Last Week, they need to seriously reevalaute options before Next Season.

*I think Erasmus James will be the player I watch, especially if they bring him in as a pass-rusher with the Frist Team Defense.

How I expect the game to go down.

-Neither Offense looking all that good in the first quarter, the Vikings suspect O-line play combined with Micheal Bennett's lack of vision, I think will have people worried about the first-team offense come tommorrow, and they may be right.

-I think the Brad Johnson-Mewelde Moore duo gets the Vikings on the board in the second. I think tommorrow, I will be going off more about how Moore needs to start. I think the Vikings keep their first-team D for long enough to slow down the Jets in the second-so I look for maybe a 10-3 Vikings lead at the half.

-The Jets probably will not pass that well in the second half as Brooks Bollinger, and some guy named Kevin Eakin are the 3rd and 4th QB's, and the Vikings were pretty good with back-up DB's like Adrian Ward, and Laroni Gallingshaw last week. Shaun Hill will probably play it close to the vest, and Ciatrick Fason might keep looking better than he is. The 4th Quarter will just be sloppy.

-In the end, breaking this down, I think the Vikings win in not that high-scoring a contest maybe 16-13. I just like the Vikings depth a bit better, and depth wins pre-season games.

Dr.Z quote

From http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/writers/dr_z/08/16/notes.to/1.html. This is a statement by Paul Zimmerman or Dr.Z, who I consider to be the best writer in Football, when it comes to evaluating teams.

"Give me a choice of one non-starter to grab for my team and I'd take Vikings running back Mewelde Moore. He's running back kicks now. On my team he'd be carrying 15 times a game and catching passes because he is one hell of a runner and a terrific kid with a big heart.

Instead he sat on the bench last year, and figured to do so this year as well, behind trash like Onterrio Smith, the guy who was caught with the "Whizzinator" kit in his bag, and who's currently serving a year-long, three-time-loser substance-abuse suspension.

It's only a small item, but it's why I don't like Mike Tice's Vikings to reach the Super Bowl, as some people predict. Not only for this particular case, of course, but for such flaws in judgment."

My Comments: I agree the Vikings won't reach the Super Bowl because the Coaching isn't that good. This is inspite of the implosion in Philadelphia, the fact that the Falcons won't repeat last season's success, and Carolina's Offense might not be fully their. Mewelde Moore should be starting, I have said that more than a few times on the blog. The Vikings probably have enough talent to win the division with sub-standard coaching, after being two plays away from talking about a Three-Peat for Division champs.

Final Roster

Here is how I am seeing the final Roster Make-up

QB-Culpepper, Johnson, Hill
RB-Bennett, Moore, Fason, M.Williams
WR-Burleson, Williamson
WR-Taylor, Robinson
TE- Wiggins, Kleinsasser
T-McKinnie
T-Rosenthal-Dorsey
G-Liwenski-Johnson
G-Goldberg
C-Birk
DE-Udeze-Johnstone
DE-James, Scott
DT-P.Williams,S.Johnson
DT-K.Williams
WLB-D.Thomas/E.J. Henderson
MLB-Cowart,R.Davis(I think he's made the team, due to his Special Teams play)
SLB-N.Harris-K.Newman
CB-Winfield
CB-Smoot-B.Williams
S-Sharper-Fox
S-Chavous-Offord
K-Either Edinger or Elling
P-Probably Darren Bennett
LS-Cullen Loeffler

So this means 10 spots are left

*I think Keenan Howry probably makes the team as a punt-returner, I think Kelly Campbell due to injuries holding him back doesn't make the team as of today, and I think Siaha Burley should be given more of a look

*Ralph Brown has played well-enough to make the team as a Dime-Back, I think Ken Irvin probably gets due to injury concerns. Laroni Gallingshaw and Adrian Ward the Vikings are going to want to keep around for the Practice Squad.

*Corey Withrow just hasn't been that effective so far, nor when he played last year. I think they keep Anonthy Herrea because he offers more versatility.

*The Vikings are going to keep 8 D-lineman the final spot comes down to Eric Coleman, CJ Mosley, and Steve Martin. I think Martin gets cut since he just isn't that good. If think they would like to have Mosley make the team since he is the most natural nose, he just hasn't stood out this far, like Eric Coleman. I would guess that Eric Coleman makes the final team, and they try to get CJ Mosley on the Practice Squad

*I'm not sure that Raonall Smith makes the team, he just has more talent that a lot of the other guys, this probably helps him stay around.

*I said Richard Angulo makes the team at third-tight end not long ago, so I better go with him. So who makes the team between Sean Berton, Richard Owens, or Jeff Dugan. I think they keep the best blocker, and I think they keep Jeff Dugan over Sean Berton at the last minute.

So this makes it down to 4 spots

Since this is a toss-up

I'll say last four in: Withrow, K.Campbell,Laroni Gallinshaw, Steve Martin
Last four out: Ken Irvin, Sean Berton, CJ Mosley, Adrian Ward

That's all folks.

Post Game Thoughts

* Kenechi Udeze really stood out in the first half. He wasn't as good when they played him on the right side, but was very good on the left side. He was putting pressure on the Quarterback, and what a way to blow up a play on the one-yard line.

*I said Mewelde Moore was the Best RB on the Vikings, and my opionion only got stronger after Today. Micheal Bennett lacks power, and vision. Moore has pop, is dangerous out of the backfield, and has great vision. He lacks Bennett's speed, but was much better than Bennett with both going against KC's First Team D.

*Erasmus James looked very good. But it should be noted much like I will note with Ciatrick Fason that he was playing against mostly back-ups. I would like to see James in with the First Team D some next week versus New York. This isn't to say I wasn't pleased with their performance.

*I didn't really like Brad Johnson's performance tonight. His arm is really quite week, the throw to Keenan Howry in the second quarter really illustrated this. The Vikings will be hurting if Culpepper is out for any extended time.

*Back-Ups who deserve props Laroni Gallingshaw-Rookie DB out of Murray State, Siaha Burley who made that nice punt return in the fourth, Rod Davis on both Special Teams and in the second half. Anonthy Herrea-the Guard out of Tennessee was doing some great running blocking in the second-half.

*The kicking game was quiet solid. Edinger made that 48th yarder albeit an ugly one. But the nice special teams returns by Moore, and Burley made the night a pleasant surpise on second teams.

*Daunte Culpepper is going to be a Pro-Bowler even without Moss, but it should be noted he always looks good in the Preseason.

Concerns

*Micheal Bennett didn't look all that impressive. It should be noted that Matt Birk will make a huge-difference in their running game. Bennett runs hard-enough, but he lacks great vision or power.

*The first team O-Line wasn't all that good. Daunte was constantly on the run. Bryant McKinnie needs to step-up.

*The outside Linebacker play with the first-team Defense was questionable. This is why Kansas City could run outside so easily.

*I saw Wille Offord on the field tonight, and he was making plays. I can't say the same about Corey Chavous.

*The Vikings didn't close on the Cheifs QB. They were putting some pressure on the QB's, but never closed. Kevin Williams it seems still needs to get in better shape. Pat Williams looked good thought.

Other thoughts

*The Cheifs still have problems on the D-Line that I question how much they will be able to improve on Defense.
*It should also be noted that nothing I saw from Derrick Johnson changed my opinion about the Holes in his games.

Well, I need to be down in the Twin Cities by 9:30, so later.

Not much till Friday

* EJ Henderson is now going to start with the first team at Weak-Side Linebacker. I don't know if Henderson has enough speed to play the Outside, but he is fairly physical. Former Super Bowl Champ and Vikings coaching intern Bryan Cox said he was actually quite impressed with Henderson's knowledge. Rod Davis then becomes the back-up in the Middle.

So I better give a brief Preview of Friday's Game

*1 Quarter of the first team, this should be the highlight seeing the New Defensive Starters as well as the Offense without Randy Moss. It looks questionable to whether Fred Smoot or Troy Williamson will play. I am also looking forward to seeing the Chiefs new look D.

*2nd Quarter does Brad Johnson have enough Arm-Strength to still play. I will be worried if Johnson just throws dump-off passes. Will Mewelde Moore look as good as I expect in the second quarter. The rotating kicking competion between Eling and Edinger should intrigue

*Second Half just look for players to stand out.

*Prediction- I think the teams play pretty even in the First Quarter. I think both Offenses are stymied by the New Look D's. I think the Running Back duel by Larry Johnson and Mewelde Moore makes the second Quarter intresting. I think the Vikings will keep running the ball in the Third Quarter with Ciatrick Fason, while the Cheifs will be lead by Journeyman Damon Huard. I think in the Fourth, Mike Tice plays enough guys from the second team to sqeak out a win.

Vikings 24 Chiefs 20 (Note: Pre-Season games are much harder to predict than Regular-Season Games where when I put picks down went 10-2. Though I probably would have ended about 2-4, so making the record 12-6. )

August 9 Thoughts

*Is Napoloen Harris a bust, since he is reportedly being challenged for the starting strong-side job by journeyman Keith Newman? Not neccessarily since the Vikings are going to blitz quite a bit and since Newman's speciality is blitizing. Neither Harris nor Newman is that good in pass coverage. So this comes down to run-stopping ability. If Newman has improved in this area, he should be able to compete with Napoleon Harris.

*Fred Smoot is on the field, and will make the Vikings top 2 corners very tough to throw at.

*Erasmus James is signed, I don't know that he will make as much of an impact as I thought before, when I thought around 8 sacks, now I am thinking more like 5 as Lance Johnstone is the primary nickle-rusher.

*I have heard that the Vikings are concerned about Brad Johnson's arm strength and whether he could be a capable back-up for any period of time.

Questions

1. Do you think Troy Williamson will be a bust? Yes, in the sense that it will be shown he wasn't worth the 7th pick in the draft. This isn't to say he might not be a good complimentary receiver, but he will show he wasn't worthy of that pick. I wanted Shawne Merriman at the time, and he hasn't really shown anything. People say Derrick Johnson is impressive, but of course he is, he's a good athlete, he still needs to show consistent tackling ability.

2. Will Mike Tice coach the Vikings in 2006? No, because the Vikings might win ten games, but they will not do anything serious in the playoffs, unless they have better coaching. The word around the league is the Vikings two-late season collaspes have been due to coaching, where as their good starts due to talent. Their is no doubt since Tice took over, overall talent has improved. But Tice seems to be a liablity in the X'S AND O's. It also doesn't help that he has such low-paid assistants. I have said more than once I would like Kirk Ferentz to be the coach of the Minnesota Vikings come 2006.

3. When will I first call for Mike Tice's head? When it first becomes obvious that they are being outplayed by teams with less talent. So it will be early in the season.

4. When will I state again what a mistake the Randy Moss trade was? Probably after the Week 1 game vs Tampa.

Culpepper Contract

I have no problem with him being guarteened Roster Bonuses for more money, I would have actually given him a 5 million dollar pay raise instead of a 2 million dollar one. I trust Rob Brezenski, to sign good-cap friendly deals. So, we shall see. Daunte was being underpaid by NFL standards, in that his orginal contract although for 102 million, was backloaded. I will have to know more to comment in debt.

Weekend Training Camp Thoughts

* Travis Taylor as I stated a couple months ago, is looking like he has a good shoot to start at Wide Receiver over Marcus Robinson. Although, Robinson is good for about 10 games, so he will start anyway. But Taylor was real impressive, Friday Night during the inter-squad scrimmage with his two touchdown catches.

* I am worried about both first round draft picks. The first one T.Will seems to be dropping balls left and right. The second one Erasmus James hasn't entered into any contract discussions for about a week. The only rookie near a starting spot is Marcus Johnson, and maybe the second most impressive rookie has been DE Eric Coleman of Clemson, even if all he does is make the practice squad. Although, I should note Dustin Fox did impress the Vikings at developmental camp, and should contribute when his arm heals.

*I think Kenechi Udeze is the break-out Star on Defense, I am more convinced of this after his multi-sack scrimmage friday Night.

* I think even without Erasmus James, The Vikings will improve from 38 to about 50 sacks.

*I also think they're sacks allowed should drop from 46 to about 35. This will be due to the Health of Jim Kleinsasser, and Mike Rosenthal making teams more hesistant to blitz. The Vikings also are going to try to run the ball more, and without Moss, and T.Will about to start being called "Lobster Hands" a lot of the slow developing down field plays that would lead to sacks last year.

* I am starting to think the Vikings D will be between 9-12 in Total Defense, as opposed to before in the area of 14-18. This is mostly due to reports I have heard about Kenechi Udeze, and also Kevin Williams is in better shape than I figured. The improved performance from reports of Donatarrious Thomas and EJ Henderson also increases this confidence.

* The O-Line played pretty well last night I guess, they weren't getting destroyed by the Williamses' like earlier in Training Camp.

*Napoloen Harris is looking good, and his insticts have been pretty good. He should be a nice compliment to the Vikings smartest middle linebacker since Greg Biekert in Sam Cowart, although Cowart has more ability than Biekert when he was with the Vikings.

*Richard Angulo is in the lead to be the third-tight end.

*Comments on Richard Angulo let you know you are done.

Thursday Notes

.Darrion Scott will be the starting Right End on September 11 at Metrodome. Erasmus James will have to really show something, when he signs to change this.

.The Vikings are moving Marcus Johnson back to G to compete with Adam Goldberg. It will not shock me if Johnson wins this spot.

.The Vikings were sloppy at thier Thursday Morning practice, as they made lineup adjustments.

.My guess for Troy Williamson this year 26 Catches for 435 yards, and I will guess about 4 scores.

.My guess for Erasmus James about 5 sacks.

.My guess for Micheal Bennett about 1175 yards.

. My guess for Nate Burleson about 85 catches for 1215 yards, with 9 touchdowns.

.I think Darren Sharper and Fred Smoot will tie for the team lead with 6 picks.

. I think Kevin Williams gets 12 sacks.

.I think Big Kenechi Udeze gets 9.5 sacks.

.Daunte Culpepper 4100 yards passing for 35 touchdowns, 500 yards rushing for 6 touchdowns.

. Pro-Bowlers- Culpepper, McKinnie, Kevin Williams, Antoine Winfield.

August 3 Training Camp Thoughts

. Aaron Elling I am hearing is going to be the Kicker for the Minnesota Vikings, due mostly to his superior kick-off abilities over Paul Edinger. This isn't to say Edinger has been bad, Elling has also been accurate with way better leg strength. Although, Edinger seems to be better on Field Goals

. Donatarrious Thomas has really improved and is going to be the starting Weakside Linebacker.

. EJ Henderson has also looked much improved, as he has been postively influenced by Sam Cowart.

. Don't be surpised if Quincy Stewart a 4th year linebacker, who last played for the 49ers in 2003, makes the team as a Special Teams standout.

. Kelly Campbell and Keenan Howry both keep impressing.

.Erasmus James contract is being held up since the players around him haven't signed.

. Darren Sharper laid a vicious hit yesterday on Marcus Robinson. It reminded me too much of Robert Griffith for my liking though, he went so much for the hit, he could have very easily missed the tackle, by making no effort to wrap up.

.Wille Offord hit Ben Nelson so hard yesterday, that Ben had a Concussion.

.I have to admit my head is somewhat stracthing when I hear mulitiple times to downplay expectations for Troy Williamson. Is it because he is so raw as draft reports stated? Or is it because he is no Randy Moss as a Rookie? I think the second one is just assumed, that is why I worry about the first.

John Clayton Viking Observations

MANKATO, Minn. -- Here are five observations on the Minnesota Vikings, based on Aug. 2 practice:

1.

The wide receiver who is stepping up the most after the departure of Randy Moss is Nate Burleson, who caught 68 passes for 1,006 yards and nine touchdowns last season. Now in the spotlight, Burleson is starting to develop an on-the-field personality.

During Tuesday's practice, Burleson streaked down the left sideline and was covered closely by veteran Ken Irvin. Burleson made an incredible catch behind Irvin's back, kept his feet and went the distance for an 80-yard touchdown. He moves to the role of flanker, acting as Daunte Culpepper's main threat.

Culpepper has no doubts Burleson can have an 80-catch season, and if he does, he should have a 1,200-yard season. He has averaged 15.1 yards a catch his first two years. Plus, he has the deep speed to take advantage of Culpepper's long throws.

"Everybody knew the type of guy Nate was," Culpepper said. "He's definitely getting noticed more by other people. He's a great player. Those who don't know him will, because he's going to get a lot of touchdowns. He's going to be in the elite group of receivers pretty soon." Coach Mike Tice reminds those who don't know Burleson that he led receivers in yards after the catch last season.

Daunte Culpepper remains one of the league's top QBs.

2.

The sleeper wide receiver on the team is Travis Taylor, not Troy Williamson. Taylor was considered a first-round disappointment for the Ravens, but the Vikings attributed his struggles to the constant change of quarterbacks in Baltimore.

The 10th pick in the 2000 draft, Taylor caught 61 passes in 2002 but never had a 1,000-yard season. He has good size: 6-foot-1, 200 pounds.

"Travis has always been good," Culpepper said. "I've watched him play in high school and college, and he's always been good. In Baltimore, I think he played with eight different quarterbacks. That would be tough on anybody."

Taylor is being used as the team's third receiver, playing the slot. He has good quickness and a willingness to go for the ball. He has impressed Culpepper with his work ethic. Williamson, the team's first-round choice and seventh pick in the draft, signed Tuesday after a brief holdout. The plan is for him to be used as a fourth receiver. The team will create packages to put him on the field. Williamson should be able to streak down the field and stretch defenses until he gets familiar with the offense.

3.

Culpepper remains the biggest quarterback in football, but has amazing quickness for his size. He has been playing at 268 pounds for the past several years. Once, Tice asked him to take a water test to determine his proper playing weight fully. The coach believed 258 would be the right number.

Culpepper went through the ordeal of getting body fat tests in water and going through other types of analysis. The results, which pleased him, said he should be at 267. He just has a big body. After six years in the league, he hasn't lost any of his speed or skills. Culpepper can scramble with the best of them. When he gets in the open field, he can give a move that freezes a defender, then run by him. He's a rare talent and is in the elite quarterbacking group with Peyton Manning, Donovan McNabb, Brett Favre and others.

Fantasy focus: Michael Bennett

It seems that every year, Bennett graces the list of potential breakout candidates. Onterrio Smith's suspension seems to clear the starting job for Bennett once again, and we're hearing rave reviews already about his health and offseason regimen at the onset of training camp. Unfortunately, although Bennett does have one 1,296-yard rushing campaign to his credit, demonstrating that he does possess the ability to perform, he had a combined 1,405 yards in his three other seasons. Coach Mike Tice already is talking up Bennett as the starter, but we've come to learn not to trust Tice at his word with his running back plans, especially with so much competition at the position -- Moe Williams, Mewelde Moore and Ciatrick Fason are still in the picture. Bennett needs a strong preseason to ensure his starting job, and how he fares in August will play a huge part in determining whether he really has the potential to be a No. 2 fantasy RB. -- Tristan Cockcroft, associate editor of Fantasy Games Sign up for free FFL More fantasy football

4.

The Vikings have moved on since the season-long suspension of Onterrio Smith. Michael Bennett is the starter and is having one of his best camps. He's more focused than ever for several reasons. First, he's a free agent after the season. This is a money year for him and he's coming off two injury-plagued seasons in which he gained only 447 and 276 yards. His goal is a repeat of 2002, the only healthy season of his career, when he gained 1,296 yards.

Don't expect an early challenge from Mewelde Moore, who might be the back of the future if Bennett leaves after the season. Moore led the NFL last season for yards after first contact. He's a compact power runner who hits the hole hard and is hard to tackle. Unfortunately for Moore, the Vikings are going with the experience. Bennett is first team. Moe Williams is the backup. Moore is on the third team, but he's too good not to get on the field.

5.

Losing offensive coordinator Scott Linehan was a big blow. Because the franchise was for sale, the Vikings could offer Linehan only a one-year contract. He left for big money from the Miami Dolphins. The question is whether Steve Loney, a former offensive line coach, can take over as offensive coordinator.

It was only three years ago that outsiders thought Tice was crazy going with an inexperienced offensive coordinator such as Linehan. Tice's instincts were right. The Vikings finished second, first and fourth in offense during the past three years. The switch to Loney will bring a new emphasis on the run, something that slipped away last year. Linehan called a few too many passes last year. Minnesota had only 435 running plays, which didn't take advantage of the deep group of runners and the big offensive line. Offensive linemen often had to retreat on seven or eight consecutive plays in pass-blocking situations.

The Vikings will mix the run with the pass. The return of right tackle Mike Rosenthal and tight end Jim Kleinsasser from injuries should help the running game. Plus, the Vikings have good runners. It would be an upset if Bennett doesn't have a 1,200-yard season if he stays healthy.

John Clayton is a senior writer for ESPN.com.

Tuesday Training Camp Thoughts

.Dustin Fox out 4-6 Weeks. Fox had been impressing the Vikings quite a bit. Look for him to fall behind a bit, and this will leave Ken Irvin and Willie Offord in back-up safety roles.

. Aaron Eling I guess has pulled ahead in the race to be kicker. The big reason is distance on kickoffs.

.Nate Burleson is really looking good due to his outstanding balance.

.Nat Dorsey has disappointed the Vikings with his conditioning.

.Kelly Campbell really stood out in his first day of practice, with his speed and return abilities.

. Erasmus James needs to get in camp, for him to make an impact as a nickle-rusher.

. The Vikings front-four is basically dominating the Offensive Line. The Williams' are too hard to control. To Illustrate this as stated in this morning's Star Tribune http://www.startribune.com/stories/510/5538020.html

For those interested in karma, here's how the first full-pads series between the first-team offense and first-team defense went:

Play 1: Daunte Culpepper scrambles for 5 yards.

Play 2: Culpepper sacked.

Play 3: Culpepper sacked.

Play 4: Aaron Elling 51-yard field goal.

Intial Training Camp Thoughts

Most Outrageous Prediction: I have heard from muliple people (I.E. Darren Sharper, and Mike Rosenthal) that they expect Micheal Bennett to have between 1600-1800 yards. Considering Bennett's injury history, I wouldn't hold my breath on this happening. If Bennett is healthy enough to get 1000, I would consider that a good season for him.

Who will win the Kicking Job?: I am hearing Paul Edinger kicked the ball better, Sunday, but Aaron Elling kicked the ball better, Saturday.

Who should you watch out for?: Siaha Burley. Burley was the MVP of the Arena League for the Arizona Rattlers. They think he could surprise as a punt returner. Burley was also Daunte Culpepper's leading receiver at Central Flordia.

Troy Williamson deal: Intresting structure to it. I like the fact that he is being payed by a Roster Bonus. The fact that he is going to count 8 figures against the cap this season, works.

Kenechi Udeze-I have heard is much improved and could approach a double-digit sack season.