More Vikings vs Falcons

More Vikings/Falcons breakdown from ESPN Insider found at http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/features/take2?gameId=251002001 on ESPN Insider.

The challenge for the Falcons defense in this matchup will be playing with both aggressiveness and discipline at the same time because of QB Daunte Culpepper's ability to create with his feet. When the Falcons played the Eagles and QB Donovan McNabb two weeks ago, defensive coordinator Ed Donatell blitzed on 62 percent of the Eagles offensive snaps, which is one of the highest single-game percentages fans will ever see in the NFL. However, the Eagles are a one-dimensional passing offense with no commitment to running the ball out of base formations. The Vikings are different conceptually than Philadelphia in terms of formations, personnel and play calling. This makes it more difficult for the Falcons to blitz as frequently.

• The foundation of the Falcons' offense is the running game. Atlanta runs a zone-blocking scheme that predominantly features two-back personnel formations with FB Justin Griffith acting as the lead blocker. One of the main purposes of using zone-based blocking schemes is it gets the defensive front seven moving laterally, stretching them horizontally and creating lanes for the back to cut through. RB Warrick Dunn is very good at finding the creases at the line of scrimmage and he has great quickness. That will put a lot of pressure on Minnesota's defenders to stay disciplined and fill the correct gap. That doesn't bode well for the Vikings. Minnesota's second and third level defenders -- their linebackers and safeties do not do a good job fitting into their gaps and playing with the needed discipline to minimize running lanes. If the Vikings' defense cannot put QB Michael Vick and the Atlanta offense into manageable third-down situations, they will not be able to get to their pressure packages. That will allow Vick to play at his pace rather than having him rush his decisions.

• Atlanta's designed quarterback movement works off the same initial run action as the zone running game. The threat of Vick rolling out and getting on the perimeter, where he is most dangerous, forces the backside defenders to stay at home rather than pursuing down the line of scrimmage. This stretches the run front, and provides large cut back lanes in the Falcons running game. There was a great example of that last week against the Bills: On a zone run left, the backside linebacker was clearly responsible for defending Vick and he reacted hard. When Dunn cut back to the right, the linebacker had vacated the area because of Vick. The result was a 20-yard run for Dunn.

• The Falcons handle third-and-long a little differently than most other teams in the NFL, which run a lot of multiple-receiver sets in those situations. Atlanta predominantly stays with their base two-back one tight end personnel group, especially if offensive coordinator Greg Knapp anticipates blitz. Even more interesting are the formations they use with their base personnel. They will at times align FB Justin Griffith on the wing outside TE Alge Crumpler with RB Warrick Dunn on the other side of the formation off the shoulder of the offensive tackle. This widens the offensive front, which in turn stretches the defensive front. This makes it tougher to blitz since there is no short corner and creates running lanes for Vick.

• Minnesota opened last week's game with three wide receivers and one back against a Saints defense that plays a lot of press-man coverage, and attacked with the pass. The result on the play was a 24-yard touchdown pass to WR Travis Taylor, who beat Saints CB Mike McKenzie on a corner route. More importantly, the throw clearly brought back Culpepper's confidence. Keeping that in mind, look for the Vikings to try to get Culpepper into a rhythm by throwing early.

• Vikings TE Jim Kleinsasser plays with a mean streak and he can block defensive ends one-on-one in the running game, which gives Minnesota's run game a lot of flexibility both on inside and perimeter runs. On a 28-yard run last week, Kleinsasser did an outstanding job of sealing Saints DE Darren Howard even though Howard was initially aligned outside of him. This is one of the toughest blocks a tight end can make and Kleinsasser executes it consistently.

• Culpepper is not a pure timing, rhythm and anticipation passer, as he has a tendency to wait until his receivers come out of their breaks before delivering the ball. A by-product of his approach is it causes him to hold onto the ball a little longer. This is one reason that Culpepper, despite his tremendous running ability, gets sacked so much. The Falcons consistently generate pressure with their down four and the Vikings offensive line is struggling in pass protection so Culpepper will need to speed up his process and get rid of the ball quicker.

• The Falcons' defense predominantly plays with eight men in the box in normal down and distance situations, and FS Bryan Scott is almost always the eighth man. Atlanta will try to disguise this by moving Scott around a lot before the snap of the ball. It will be interesting to see if the Falcons stay with this approach considering the uncertainty at corner. DC Jason Webster is due back, but the more single safety coverage Atlanta plays, the more its corners have to hold up on islands.

• Falcons OLBs Demorrio Williams and Keith Brooking are aggressive and this can be both a positive and a negative. Last week against the Bills, the Falcons run defense was gashed by a number of runs that had similar characteristics: One, a lot of action in the backfield making the linebacker's reads hindered and two misdirection elements. Brooking and Williams, being as reactive as they are, often initially react too quickly only to be out of position when the play comes back to the other side. With Culpepper's ability to move, Brooking and Williams must play with better discipline this week or they will again find themselves.

Special TeamsMinnesota's kick return teams have been nothing short of dreadful in their first three games. They are averaging only 16.5 yards per kickoff return, last in the league. Their punt return team's average of 7.4 yards per return doesn't rank them much higher. The Vikings have used five different players on kickoff returns and only Koren Robinson is giving them any kind of respectable production. Atlanta's cover teams are just middle of the road at this point, but they could play a big role in keeping an explosive Vikings' offense pinned deep in its own territory with a strong performance.

The Vikings signed PK Paul Edinger in the offseason to replace veteran Morten Andersen. His only miss has been a 33-yard attempt that hit the right upright last week. He has converted six of his seven attempts and showed some ability to make a long field goal by converting on a field goal attempt from 53 yards. However, that field goal was inside the dome and the Vikings would like to see him get his kickoffs deeper.

Matchups• Atlanta QB Michael Vick vs. Minnesota FS Darren Sharper• Minnesota ROG Marcus Johnson vs. Atlanta UT Rod Coleman• Minnesota RB Mewlede Moore vs. Atlanta MLB Ed Hartwell• Atlanta TE Alge Crumpler vs. Minnesota SLB Napoleon Harris• Atlanta ROG Kynan Forney vs. Minnesota UT Kevin Williams

Scouts' EdgeMinnesota isn't as bad as it appeared over the first two weeks of the season or as good as it appeared last week. It's a middle-of-the-road team right now. The problem for the Vikings this week is they face an Atlanta team that is among the best in the NFC. Look for the Falcons' front seven to shut down Minnesota's ground game by getting into gaps and disrupting plays in the backfield. That will force Culpepper to carry the offense once again. The fact that he will have to make some big plays to keep the Vikings in this game and the ability of Atlanta's front four to get to him is a recipe for disaster. In addition, Atlanta's superior special teams should help it win the battle of field position putting even more pressure on Culpepper. A lot of stalled drives and possibly costly turnovers are the likely result. On offense, the Falcons will do what they do best. Control the clock with the running game and lean on Vick for a couple of big plays. Prediction: Falcons 24, Vikings 17

Viking and NFL thoughts

-I am really concerned about the Vikings ability to pass-block this week versus Atlanta. Although Corey Withrow played better last week, the seven sacks that were given up to the simple New Orleans Defense, makes me think if the Vikings block like they did in the second half this week, the Falcons could get 10 sacks. I really don't expect a good game from Daunte Culpepper this week, as Atlanta has a Pass-Rush like Tampa Bay, or Washingston that both have caused Daunte Culpepper big problems in 2005. Daunte doesn't need to force anything. Because a interception will be a disaster, but Chris Kluwe will punt it about 50 yards downfield with no return.

-On Defense it should be intresting, word is the Vikings are going to play a 4-4-3 defense. This might make sense since the Vikings only really have one healthy safety in Corey Chavous. The Vikings can leave Smoot and Winfield on an island. The Vikings are banged up along the D-line with both Kenechi Udeze and Lance Johnstone being questionable. EJ Henderson actually might be the Vikings best fit as second inside backer in the 4-4. Hopefully the Vikings will not have Napoleon Harris on Alge Crumpler too often.

-As far as my thoughts on the NFC North. Green Bay has issues on both sides of the Ball, their schedule coming up is brutal. I really don't see Detroit as all that good, Joey Harrington just lacks poise, their O-line is a mess, and their D is average. Chicago could be the Vikings biggest challenge, but their not going to score many points.

-Game I would want to see this weekend-KC hosting Philly. The question is what KC team will we see versus a very good Eagle team.

-The Bengals schedule is such that they could win 12 games. (GB, DET, CHI, HOU, CLEV, BUF, TEN).

-MY Top 5 teams 1. IND 2. NE 3. Pit 4. CIN 5. PHIL

-MY Vikings pick will be posted tommorrow, though its direction can maybe be seen.

-Gophers vs Penn State- I like the Gophers running game to triumph over the inconsitent play of Penn State's passing game. I say Minnesota 27 Penn State 24. Maroney has about 150 yards, but Gary Russell has around 90 yards.

Vikings vs Falcons Preview

From ESPN Insider at http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/scouting?gameId=251002001

Why To WatchSunday's matchup between the Vikings and Falcons is an important game for two teams that entered the 2005 season with the highest of expectations. If the Vikings are to pull to .500 after an 0-2 start, QB Daunte Culpepper must build on the momentum of his three-touchdown, zero-interception performance last week. Minnesota also needs the big plays to continue on defense, but it can't come at the expense of breaking contain versus explosive QB Michael Vick. With the Buccaneers off to a perfect start in the NFC South, the Falcons can't afford to stumble. A heavy dose of Vick, Warrick Dunn and T.J. Duckett on the ground gives Atlanta its best chance to fend off a dangerous Vikings team that has their backs against the wall.

When the Vikings have the ball

Rushing: RB Mewelde Moore made the most of his starting opportunity last week by providing the Vikings with their first 100-yard rushing performance of the season with 101 yards on 23 carries. However, while the performance was certainly an upgrade, there are still many issues regarding the Vikings' running attack moving forward.
For starters, Moore is an undersized back with a history of durability issues that could prevent him from carrying a full-time load throughout the course of the season. Michael Bennett simply has not been effective and his role has been reduced to the point that he only saw two fourth-quarter carries in last week's game. The other problem is inconsistency along the offensive line. Things have gotten so bad that coach Mike Tice has resorted to a rotation at the OC position between Melvin Fowler and Cory Withrow, and at the right guard position between rookie Marcus Johnson, Adam Goldberg and Anthony Herrera.

The Falcons are quick and athletic up front, but they lack ideal bulk and strength when forced to anchor on a consistent basis versus run-dedicated teams such as their last two opponents, the Seahawks and Bills. The Vikings would like to attack a Falcons' defense that has looked vulnerable with 335 rushing yards allowed in the past two outings, but a patchwork offensive line may prevent them from doing so.

Passing: The Falcons are struggling to defend the run but they have become one of the riskiest teams in the NFL to throw against. Their defensive line is explosive and provides constant pressure. DT Rod Coleman was the dominant member last week with two sacks, one forced fumble and one pass defended, but the trio of Patrick Kerney, Chauncey Davis and Chad Lavalais also combined for two sacks.

LDC DeAngelo Hall turned in another brilliant performance versus the Bills last week and is quickly emerging as one of the league's elite man-to-man cover corners. With all the pressure that the front four gets and with Hall locking down one third of the field in coverage on his own, the Falcons have lots of flexibility in terms of mixing up coverages, loading up the box versus the run and blitzing from all different angles with the rest of their linebackers and defensive backs.
Culpepper is coming off his breakthrough performance versus the Saints last week, but the Vikings need to be careful not to put him in too many vulnerable positions against this attacking, opportunistic Falcons defense, especially early in the game. Prior to last week's game, Culpepper threw zero touchdowns compared to eight interceptions. He seemed to find his rhythm and settle into a comfort zone last week, but he will face much more pressure this week, especially with communication issues promising to be a problem with five different linemen rotating in at two different spots. WR Nate Burleson is not expected to return this week, leaving Culpepper with Travis Taylor, Marcus Robinson, Troy Williamson and Koren Robinson as his top-four receivers. Taylor came up big last week but he lacks the speed and explosiveness to match that performance versus Hall.

In order to gain some mismatches of their own, the Vikings will need to spread things out with three-and-four receiver sets. The Falcons will give No. 2 DC Jason Webster and nickel DC Allen Rossum safety help over the top, but at least Robinson, Williamson and Robinson can threaten Webster and Rossum off the line of scrimmage. Moore and TE Jim Kleinsasser are typically reliable receivers, but LBs Keith Brooking and Demorrio Williams have the athleticism and coverage skills to make it difficult on Culpepper when he's looking for an underneath outlet.

When the Falcons have the ball

Rushing: There was concern regarding Vick's strained hamstring entering last week's game, but 64 rushing yards on nine carries put that issue to rest. With Vick adding an extra element to an already versatile one-two punch of Dunn and Duckett at the running back position, it's fair to say that the Falcons have the most dynamic and explosive running attack in the NFL right now. Dunn continues to handle approximately twice as many carries per game, with the bigger, more powerful Duckett seeing a good deal of his carries in short-yardage and goal-line situations. Last week combined, Dunn and Duckett rushed for 172 yards on 27 carries (6.37 yards per carry)
The Vikings played the run much better last week, holding Saints RB Deuce McAllister to just 63 rushing yards on 14 carries. Playing more aggressively with DS's Corey Chavous and Willie Offord helped, as the eight-man fronts took away a lot of the cutback lanes that were hurting this unit in its first two outings.

The one weakness this group will continue to have, however, is stamina. The Vikings rely on their defensive front to make plays on the move in a one-gap approach. When fresh, this unit can be extremely effective, as it was last week. However, if the opponent is patient and is able to keep the Vikings on the field for an exorbitant amount of time, athletic defensive linemen such as DT Kevin Williams and DE Kenechi Udeze become far less productive because they can't run around blocks. As a result, look for the Falcons to feature their running game even more than usual on Sunday. With the trio of Vick, Dunn and Duckett coming after them down after down, it will be difficult for the Vikings to remain stout.

Passing: The Vikings finally took more chances with DC's Antoine Winfield and Fred Smoot in primarily man-to-man coverage last week, and it paid off. That is what Winfield and Smoot, specialize in. Winfield is a more versatile player but both of the Vikings' cornerbacks are more effective in single-man coverage -- and that's where their value lies. Look for the Vikings to show more of the same coverage looks this week with Winfield matching up against WR Dez White a good portion of the time and Smoot handling WR Michael Jenkins nearly as much.

The Vikings lost backup FS Willie Offord to a knee injury last week when he was filling in for injured starter Darren Sharper, but the team is hoping that Sharper makes a successful return to the lineup this Sunday. If that's the case, the Vikings will have the personnel with Sharper and Chavous to aggressively support the run while still being able to keep seam-stretching TE Alge Crumpler under wraps in the passing game. However, if Sharper can't go, or if either of the Vikings' starting safeties become too immersed in run support, Crumpler can become a huge factor for the Falcons' offense.

The Vikings pass rush got to Saints QB Aaron Brooks three times last week but it will be an entirely different approach this week, as the normally aggressive defensive front will need to play with more discipline and gap-control. If it fails to do so, especially with the Vikings playing more man-to-man coverage with defenders turning their backs to the line of scrimmage, Vick's running ability could prove to be fatal.

Vikings vs Saints postgame

Here are the grades

Quarterback- A -When Daunte was ineffective it was because of very poor pass blocking, to the tune of six sacks. With the way Daunte has played the last two weeks I will be generous and give him an a

Running Back- B I had stated numerous times I wanted Mewelde Moore starting, not only was I proven right, but he had 101 yards rushing. He's not very good as a pass-blocker. I wonder if Moe Williams skills are starting to decline. But this was a big improvement.

Wide Receiver- B+ Troy Williamson had a great game, Travis Taylor had a couple touchdowns, Jermaine Wiggins is so reliable. Koren Robinson had that great return.

Offensive Line- C They really struggled with pass-blocking at the end of the first half, and first part of the Second Half. They run blocked as well as they had. They still aren't good, but they are improving.

Defensive Line-B+ Pat Williams controls the middle like no one they have. Scott, Udeze, and Johnstone all had sacks. Kevin Williams is still disappointing. They did a pretty good job putting pressure on.

Linebacker-C- Donatarrious Thomas and Napoleon Harris both struggled in Pass Coverage. They attacked the middle too much all day. This was the weak link of the Vikings today. Keith Newman playing well.

Defensive Back- A- I loved how they blitzed coverage liablities like Brian Williams, and Wille Offord constantly. Winfield, and Smoot played well. Ralph Brown was kind of hit or miss. But I really liked their performance, overall.

Special Teams-A- Chris Kluwe is going to be a Pro-Bowler sometime, Paul Edinger made three field goals, and had some nice kickoffs. Koren Robinson had a nice return. They had a coverage break down, but the touchdown was called back because of a bogus call. But then the Saints later scored thanks to a bogus call in their favor. But good game.

My Vikings vs Saints pick

I have gone back and forth on this one all week long. I think the Vikings have to get it going sometime, and Daunte can't play this bad forever. I also almost wonder, if the Vikings are in such chaos beyond the point of return.

If the Vikings loss it could set off a tailspin, that might cost Mike Tice his job very soon. Not having Nate Burleson and with Darren Sharper, and EJ Henderson questionable that really makes one wonder. But the New Orleans Saints are on an exhausting emotional roller-coaster. I am picking the Vikings to win a close game tommorrow, led by their Defense with an improved Daunte Culpepper, though nothing like his 400 yard 5 td performance last year vs New Orleans. Final Score: Vikings 20 Saints 16

Offensive MVP: Travis Taylor
Defensive MVP: Kenechi Udeze

More Vikings vs Saints

from ESPN Insider http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/features/take2?gameId=250925016

Tuesday, our scouts filed their advance advance scouting report on this week's matchup between the Saints and Vikings. Now they're back with a second look.The Vikings have had 24 offensive possessions in 2005 and 12 have ended with turnovers -- the team's minus-9 turnover margin ranks as the worst in the NFL. The offense continues to struggle with consistency, rhythm and timing. Look for head coach Mike Tice to get more involved in the play-selection this week, along with offensive coordinator Steve Looney. Also, look for the possibility of Loney moving upstairs in the coaching box to formulate his game plan.

QB Daunte Culpepper has 10 turnovers, including eight interceptions and a 41.6 quarterback rating through two games. Culpepper also hasn't been running the football as mush as he did in the past. Under former offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Scott Linehan, Culpepper played like an MVP in 2004, but has struggled in almost every situation in the first two games. Look for Vikings to go back to basics and simplify the things that Culpepper does best, in order to help him gain confidence.

Saints' return specialist Michael Lewis was lost for the season after injuring his left knee on a kickoff return Monday night vs. the Giants. Lewis, an All-Pro in 2002 when he set an NFL record with 2,432 combined kick return yards, tore the medial collateral (MCL) and posterior collateral (PCL) ligaments and was placed on injured reserve.
Lewis foot got caught in the turf at Giants Stadium and his knee buckled with nobody touching him. With Lewis out, wide receiver Donte Stallworth becomes the primary punt returner with Az-Zahir Hakim maybe getting a shot when he gets healthy. RB Aaron Stecker will return kickoffs this week vs. the Vikings.

Look for great matchups on the outside perimeter with Saints' wide receivers Joe Horn and Donte' Stallworth vs. Vikings' corners Fred Smoot and Antoine Winfield. Horn caught nine passes for 143 yards against the Giants and Donte Stallworth added eight receptions for a career-high 141 yards -- giving the Saints dual 100-yard receivers for only the fourth time in club history.

Horn now has 25 100-yard receiving games in five-plus seasons with the Saints. Smoot, when paired with Winfield, was suppose to give the Vikings one of the most talented cornerback tandems in the NFL, but both have struggled somewhat at this early point of the regular season.
The Saints' offense ranks seventh in total yards after two games, with 356.5 yards per game, but stats don't always show the entire picture. They rank 21st in rushing with 86.5 yards per game, so look for offensive coordinator Mike Sheppard to attack the Minnesota front seven and try to get the Saints running game back on track, with a combination of Deuce McAlister and Antowain Smith. The Vikings have allowed 156.5 yards on the ground in the first two weeks.
Expect defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell to use more three-man fronts against the Saints to confuse QB Aaron Brooks in passing situations. The Vikings have used a lot of multiple fronts and personnel in the first two regular season games. They will mix in a lot of three-down lineman, three linebackers and five defensive backs in sub vs. the Saints' multiple formations.
Look for QB Daunte Culpepper to get back on track by using TE Jimmy Kleinsasser and H-back Jermaine Wiggins in the passing game. The Saints have some injury concerns with cornerback Fakhir Brown and free safety Dwight Smith listed as questionable. Also, look for wide receiver Koren Robinson to be involved for the first time this year. With the injury to Nate Burleson and the lack of production in the passing game, the Vikings need a spark this week.
RB Michael Bennett has struggled, but still holds a shaky grasp on the top running back spot. Bennett was the top guy heading into the season, but was benched last Sunday in the second quarter after losing two fumbles. Look for the Vikings to involve both Mewelde Moore and Moe Williams in the gameplan if Bennett continues to struggle. Special TeamsRookie punter Chris Kluwe had another impressive performance, averaging 46.7 yards (41.7 net) on three punts. However, the Vikings return game continued to be a non-factor. Rookie Troy Williams was removed as the primary kick returner after averaging 13.2 yards on five returns. PK Paul Edinger was a non-factor against the Bengals as the Vikings did not attempt a field goal or extra point. Edinger's opening kickoff landed at the Cincinnati 10-yard line.

The Saints special teams struggled against the Giants. A trick reserve play on the opening kickoff was botched and the Giants turned it into an easy TD, John Carney missed a 29-yard field goal, and kick returner Michael Lewis injured his left knee and is done for the year. The Saints averaged just 15.2 yards on kickoff returns, but their kick coverage was good as they allowed just 3.5 yards per punt return and 12.3 yards per kickoff return.

Matchups• New Orleans WR Joe Horn against Minnesota DC Antoine Winfield • Minnesota LT Bryant McKinnie against New Orleans RDE Darren Howard • Minnesota NT Pat Williams against New Orleans OC LeCharles Bentley • New Orleans DC Mike McKenzie against Minnesota WR Travis Taylor • New Orleans QB Aaron Brooks against Minnesota SS Corey Chavous

Scouts' EdgeThe New Orleans Saints go on the road for the third consecutive time against a Vikings team that really struggled in last week's game against the Bengals. According to our Scouts, Inc. breakdown, this game will be very close. Last week, both teams struggled with critical turnovers and penalties.

There are two critical factors in this game -- which quarterback performs better while making the least amount of mistakes, and which team will be more disciplined. The Saints have explosive playmakers on offense and the Vikings spent the whole offseason upgrading their defense with speed and experience, which should make for a great matchup. The Vikings' offense needs to get back on track against a secondary that has some injury concerns. Also, special teams will be critical element again this week in controlling the tempo of the game and field position.

With the Saints going on the road for the third consecutive week and playing in a hostile environment, look for the Vikings to pull out a close game at the end and get back on track in the NFC North division.

Vikings vs Saints Preview

From ESPN Insider at http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/scouting?gameId=250925016
Why To Watch

New Orleans' offense has sputtered at times and has made some critical mistakes this season. But it's as explosive as it is inconsistent. Look for the Saints to take advantage of its playmakers by getting RB Deuce McAllister out on the perimeter and having QB Aaron Brooks attack downfield. With Minnesota's offense having problems putting points on the board, some big plays could create a lead that puts even more pressure on the Vikings. Minnesota will counter by playing conservative schemes that are designed to take away the big play. The hope is to force New Orleans to sustain longer drives, giving the Vikings more chances to create turnovers. Throwing eight interceptions over the first two games is unacceptable and Vikings QB Daunte Culpepper needs to make better decisions. That won't be easy unless the offensive line starts gelling and the ground game gives the offense some much-needed balance. However, Culpepper has to do a better job of protecting the football regardless of the help he gets from his supporting cast. He can't give the Saints any added confidence by turning the ball over.

When the Saints have the ball

Rushing: Look for New Orleans to attack the perimeter of Minnesota's run defense for three reasons. The first is Minnesota has the personnel to control the middle of the line of scrimmage. NT Pat Williams is a powerful interior run stuffer that can anchor working against double teams and UT Spencer Johnson has the quickness to beat the Saints' guards to the point of attack. It's also important to note that the Vikings could play Kevin Williams, who is versatile enough to line up at end and defensive tackle, inside or outside. He will replace Johnson if he slides inside. Kevin Williams is bigger as well as stronger than Johnson and moving him inside would fortify the interior run defense.

The second reason is rookie ROT Jammal Brown has exceeded lofty expectations thus far and he is a relentless drive blocker that plays with a mean streak. If the Vikings line Kevin Williams up on the outside it will be at left end. While this will be a battle worth keeping an eye on, Brown is capable of holding his own. After all, he's played surprisingly well going up against Carolina's Julius Peppers and the Giants Michael Strahan.


The third reason New Orleans wants to get McAllister outside is it needs more big plays in the running game. McAllister's average of just 2.7 yards per carry is creating longer down and distances that put added pressure on Brooks. The Saints need to take advantage of McAllister's burst and open field speed by getting him to the edge. In addition, outside running plays take longer to develop, which means McAllister will have more time to locate cutback lanes, and he has the lateral mobility to make the most of them.

Passing: New Orleans' receivers made two costly mistakes on Monday night that resulted in turnovers. The first came on a crossing route. WR's Donte' Stallworth and Devery Henderson ran right into each other, the ball bounced off Stallworth's pads and it landed in a defender's hands. The second mistake is a little more understandable, as WR Joe Horn was trying to break the plane of the goal line when he fumbled into the end zone. It also doesn't help that Brooks threw three interceptions and lost a fumble. The Saints need to eliminate the mistakes that are costing them points and field position. They don't want to hand any points to a struggling Vikings team.

While New Orleans' passing attack has been somewhat inconsistent, there's no questioning the big-play ability of Horn and Stallworth. They'll be working against a Minnesota secondary that has had some problems getting beat deep. As a result, look for Brooks to attack this defense vertically. This will be especially true if FS Darren Sharper cannot play or is hindered by a knee injury he sustained last week. Sharper has excellent range and he's a playmaker, so he would be sorely missed if he can't go. It's also worth noting that playing with confidence is critical for corners and safeties because they get left on islands more than the front seven. If the Vikings' secondary starts getting beat deep again, their corners and safeties will likely start lining up deeper, opening up the short-to-intermediate passing game as well as the running game.








When the Vikings have the ball

Rushing: Minnesota's offensive line isn't getting enough movement or sustaining their blocks long enough for their backs to break into the second level. Expect those struggles to continue against New Orleans' front four. While the Saints interior defensive tackles are inconsistent, they're powerful enough to hold their own working against a struggling Vikings' interior offensive line. The Saints ends are the strength of the defense.

Minnesota's instability in the backfield hasn't helped an offensive line that essentially has three new starters either. Michael Bennett, who lost two fumbles last week, has not played well, Mewelde Moore has been slowed by an ankle injury and Moe Williams has carried the ball just seven times. Different backs can run the same play differently depending on their style. While Bennett is a speed-back that is at his best attacking the perimeter Moore is more of a between-the-tackles runner that is less likely to bounce runs outside after starting inside.

Without a premiere back to carry the load, the offensive line is still getting used to all three backs and the two units have yet to gel. New Orleans can take advantage of Minnesota's lack of chemistry by running some line stunts. If the Vikings fail to adjust, the Saints should disrupt some plays in the backfield. That will put Minnesota in longer down-and-distance situations that allow the defensive line to fly upfield because they don't have to worry about the run as much.


Passing: Culpepper's struggles appear to be a three-part problem: The running game isn't keeping defenses honest; the protection has been mediocre at best; and he's trying to make too much happen. Vikings offensive coordinator Steve Loney and head coach Mike Tice can help Culpepper fix the first two parts of the problem. Minnesota's backs have run the ball just 24 times over the first two games and showing a greater commitment to the running game, even if it sputters, will help keep defenses off balance. If they continue to run a pass-heavy scheme, New Orleans' safeties can line up deep taking away the big play and improving their chances of generating a turnover. It's also important to remember that Culpepper is still getting comfortable with a new offense so he needs that much more time to go through his progression. Loney and Tice can also give Culpepper more time by keeping a back and/or tight end to help out in pass protection.

H-back Jim Kleinsasser and TE Jermaine Wiggins are both sound pass blockers. Only Culpepper can fix the third part of his problem. Even if the pass protection improves and the ground game takes some pressure off the passing attack, the Saints will get to him at times and how he handles it will have a substantial impact on the outcome. He needs to stay patient, take what the defense gives him, and throw the ball away when nothing is available downfield rather than trying to make the big play every time he drops back.

Post Game Thoughts

Grades

QB-F Second Straight Week, Daunte Culpepper was apprehensive. He didn't release the ball quick enough, and he had no touch when he did throw the ball. He couldn't find receivers at all. Daunte played like a bad NFL QB today.

RB-F Micheal Bennett-back to back fumbles takes away nice runs at the start of the day. He hurt the Vikings big time. Mewelde Moore was OK, but nothing special. I might start Ciatrick Fason next week, and give him a chance.

WR-C- They are the strength of the Offense. I might throw Koren Robinson in there more next week. Troy Williamson-O catches, and was brutal on kick returns. It is hard to evaluate them based on Culpepper and the Line's play.

OL-D-
Was slightly better, although they weren't all that good.

DL- D- They weren't that bad against the run, but the D-line did very little pressure wise. Pat Williams. The Defensive line got winded fairly early.

LB-D Didn't do that much. Their linebacker play wasn't the problem.

DB- F Why do the Vikings play the Cornerback's play ten yards of the line, then get picked apart. I just don't get there Defensive game planning. The safeties were non-existent.

Special Teams-D Kickoff returns were terrible, Keenan Howry adds nothing as a returner. Chris Kluwe is good though. I really can't evalaute Paul Edinger

Coaching F- They need to not only fire Mike Tice, but Steve Loney, and Ted Cotrell. They just aren't getting the job done. They are getting outschemed constantly. Scott Linehan was way more valuable than I realized.

Management-F I advised against keeping Mike Tice, and trading Randy Moss. But they still did both of these things. Zygii Wilf needs to fix this.

New Name

One of half today's Vikings vs Bengals game, only affirms this sentiment.

The Vikings are so poorly prepared for games, that they look like about a 1 win team. After they added all these players on Defense, too play like this is embarrasing. The Offensive line is an embarrasment. You would think with the Head Coach as an O-line coach they might be able to block. I would fire Mike Tice, Tommorrow if I was Zygii Wilf. Who would I hire. I don't know if you hire Ted Cotrell, since the Defensive is so bad. 337 yards allowed in the First Half. What a joke. Steve Loney is confused. I would hire an Interim Coach, then conduct a full-search after this season.

Who would I look at.

1. Chuck Knox,SR.-His son is an assistant with the Vikings.

2. Bud Grant-I am not joking.

3. Paul Wiggin-Might be the best option of the names I mentioned, a Former scout and DL Coach

4. Rich Gannon-Wouldn't know what he's doing, but neither does Mike Tice. Would move from booth to the sidelines.

I don't know just have someone not named Mike Tice, Steve Loney, or Ted Cotrell coaching the team next week. Whatever you do hire someone for outside the Organization.

Halftime Grades

QB-F
RB-F
WR-C
OL-F
DL-F
LB-F
DB-F
ST-D

More Vikings vs Bengals

Take 2: Vikings vs. Bengals http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/features/take2?gameId=250918004 from ESPN Insider

By Scouts, Inc.
Minnesota at Cincinnati Matchups

Tuesday, our scouts filed their advance advance scouting report on this week's matchup between the Vikings and Bengals. Now they're back with a second look.

The Vikings utilized a lot of three-man defensive fronts last week. They brought DT Kevin Williams, normally more of a three-technique player that lines up over the guard, down over the nose over the center. With Kenechi Udeze and Lance Johnstone playing defensive end Keith Newman came in at linebacker in this 3-3-5 personnel package. Newman was used as a downhill attacking player both versus run and pass. In the first half against Tampa Bay, he was a disruptive force shooting gaps in the running game and pressuring QB Brian Griese in the passing game.

• A key player in the matchup of the Bengals' offense against the Vikings' defense is Minnesota FS Darren Sharper. Sharper is one of the best safeties in the league at reading both the drop of the quarterback and his eyes. He is also a bit of a gambler that is always looking to jump routes aggressively. That's exactly what he did last week intercepting an intermediate route in the hash area and returning it 88 yards for a touchdown. The Bengals throw the ball very effectively in the intermediate areas in the middle of the field so QB Carson Palmer must account for Sharper.


A key element to watch in this matchup is how much the Vikings attack with blitz. Last week the Vikings' defense was very aggressive fueled by a high percentage of blitzes. Playing against an inexperienced Buccaneers' offensive line, Minnesota's pressure created problems for Tampa Bay's protection schemes. The Bengals' offensive line is much more experienced and quite frankly better than Tampa Bay's offensive line. Also keep in mind that unlike the Buccaneers, the Bengals are an intermediate to downfield passing team that has explosive ability at receiver.

• One potentially problematic element for the Vikings' defense that showed itself a number of times against the Buccaneers was the alignment confusion that came in response to Tampa Bay's shifting and motioning. There were times the Vikings could not get aligned properly before the snap. We expect to see the Bengals use a greater percentage of shifting and motion early to determine if the Vikings' defense has corrected their communication and alignment problems. It is evident that defenses must defend the entire field against the Bengals' offense. They stretch the field with their route combinations. Palmer can make any throw with accuracy including the deep out and he's also an excellent seam thrower. This is not an offense in which the defensive corners can squat and sit on routes. It will be very interesting to see how Viking DCs Fred Smoot and Antoine Winfield line up against the Bengals wide receivers as a result.

• Minnesota's inability to run the football is a reason for concern. The interior offensive line, especially OC Cory Withrow and RG Marcus Johnson, who was eventually benched, did not play well. And a careful study of RB Michael Bennett shows that he is not a drive sustaining, move-the-chains kind of runner who can consistently get you two or three yards when nothing is there. Right now, this is a running game that lacks consistency and that's putting too much pressure on QB Daunte Culpepper to convert in long-yardage situations.


• Minnesota's fourth corner, Ralph Brown, is a liability in coverage. Last week against the Bucs, Brown was matched up against WR Joey Galloway and was easily beaten on a go route for 36 yards. The Bengals go four deep at wide receiver with Chad Johnson, TJ Houshmanzadeh, Kelley Washington and Kevin Walter, so expect to see a number of four-wide packages to get Brown on the field.

• The running game is the foundation of the Bengals offense and the staple running play is called "Power Z search." It's a power run to the tight end side of the formation with a guard pulling and FB Jeremi Johnson leading to the point of attack. The "Z search" part of the equation has the "Z" or strong-side wide receiver, normally Houshmanzadeh, in motion tight to the formation to search out the eighth defender in the box. It's a physical inside run and Rudi Johnson is a strong runner with excellent vision, balance and body lean. Unlike the Vikings' Bennett, Johnson is a drive sustainer that helps keep an offense in manageable down and distance situations.

• One thing we would expect to see more of beginning this week against the Vikings is Johnson and Chris Perry in the game at the same time but not necessarily in the backfield together. Last week against the Browns, the few times that Johnson and Perry were on the field together Perry aligned in the slot and the Browns walked a linebacker out over him. If the Vikings defend this formation the same way, the Bengals have two matchups they feel good about: Perry, an excellent receiver, working against the Vikings linebackers who struggle in pass coverage. The second is the six on six blocking matchup in the box when Cincinnati runs the ball.

• One thing to look for in this matchup is the Vikings covering Bengals OC Rich Braham and OCs Eric Steinbach and Bobbie Williams with defensive linemen. This forces all three offensive linemen to block one-on-one. The matchup the Vikings will be looking to get is DT Kevin Williams, perhaps the best pass rushing defensive tackle in the NFL, working against Bobbie Williams. Bobbie Williams does not react well to quickness and speed, which is exactly what Kevin Williams brings to the table.

Special TeamsVikings rookie Chris Kluwe made the most of his debut, averaging 54.3 yards on four punts. His leg strength is excellent but at times he out-kicked his coverage and the Minnesota allowed an average of almost 12 yards per punt return. With that said, Bengals PR Keiwan Ratliff does not have great speed and the Vikings could have more success in coverage this week. After five years in Chicago, PK Paul Edinger had a good start to his career in Minnesota, connecting on both of his field goal attempts including one from 53 yards out.
Cincinnati PK Shayne Graham handled the kickoff duties and all field goal attempts after coming back from a preseason groin injury last week. He showed good leg strength reaching the end zone on kickoffs multiple times and he was accurate as well converting both field goal attempts from 23 and 32 yards.

Matchups•
Cincinnati ROG Bobbie Williams vs. Minnesota UT Kevin Williams•
Minnesota RB Michael Bennett vs. Cincinnati MLB Odell Thurman•
Cincinnati WR Chad Johnson vs. Minnesota DC Fred Smoot•
Minnesota TE Jermaine Wiggins vs. Cincinnati SS Kevin Kaesviharn•
Cincinnati FB Jeremi Johnson vs. Minnesota MLB Sam Cowart

Scouts' Edge:The play of the offensive line has to improve if Minnesota is to win this game and head coach Mike Tice will make sure that gets done. Tice is a former offensive line coach that knows how to get the most out of that unit and look for him to iron out many of the problems that plagued the front five last week. With better seams to run through and more time to find the open man, the ground game will be more productive and Culpepper will make more big plays. More importantly, the Vikings will be able to sustain longer drives that keep the defense rested. Cincinnati's offensive line is better than the one Minnesota faced last week and it will have some problems stopping the run. However, the Vikings have the playmakers up front to get to Palmer when he drops back to pass and look for them to pressure him into making some costly mistakes that produce stalled drives and/or turnovers.Prediction: Vikings 28, Bengals 24

More Viking Thoughts

1. It should be noted about Randy Moss, I gave the trade a D- when it first came out, and I also said the Herschel Walker trade was better at the time. Moss made Todd Bouman look good. I said the Vikings offense would go from potentially awesome to medicore. I also warned against over-evaluating Culpepper based on pre-season play. I didn't expect anything as terrible as Sunday's performance, but still.

2.The big problem was terrible O-line play. This isn't to say Nate Burleson ran some bad routes, that he wouldn't run again. Burleson lead to two turnovers with bad routes run, and had a block in the back call back a touchdown. Burleson is capable as a number 1 receiver, he just had a terrible game.

Other assorted week one thoughts since I am tired of talking about the Vikings.

1. The Cheifs look like a legitmate Super Bowl contender. I am not sold on their D-Line. But their O-Line is awesome. I don't know that they will lose more than a game at Arrowhead. They are looking like at 11 win team to me.

2. The Colts and The Patriots are still very good teams. Indy's D granted it was against Balitmore looked like it wouldn't be a detriment to the Offense. New England just when their LB's start to go downhill, people notice they have the best D-line in Football.

3. Ed Donatell will be a NFL Head Coach in 2006, maybe of the Minnesota Vikings. The Falcons Def.Coordinator who somehow got fired by the Packers, is a great defensive strategist. The Falcons are better than I thought, though not as good as the Cheifs, Colts, or Patriots. I wouldnt say they are better than the Eagles.

4. Scott Linehan also could be a NFL head coach next year. Linehan was a great playcaller for the Vikings, he would just get kind of goofy at times (i.e. Randy Moss pass vs Seattle). Should the Vikings have let go of Tice and kept Linehan as they was some thought too after last year? Yes.

5. Jake Plummer is wildly inconsistent, no one has doubted this. A big game this weekend in Mile High versus San Diego, whoever loses is behind the 8-ball.

6. Without Javon Walker, Green Bay is in big trouble. I expect Green Bay to go 7-9.

7. People are way too excited about Joey Harrington. He put up 17 points against a horrible Packers Defense at home. This is nothing to write home about.

8. I still think the Vikings will win the NFC North, it just might be at 8-8.

Vikings vs Bengals-Preview

http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/scouting?gameId=250918004
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Vikings in need of better O-line play

By Scouts, Inc.
Why To WatchMinnesota was a popular pick to contend for a Super Bowl berth, but an inept running game and a poor performance from QB Daunte Culpepper has some experts and fans scratching their heads. However, they need look no further than the offensive line to answer most of the questions surrounding this team. That unit will have to play substantially better if the Vikings are to get a win against a tough Cincinnati team.
Bengals QB Carson Palmer continues to build on the success he had late last year and his progress gives Cincinnati a balanced attack that keeps opposing defenses off balance. However, questions remain on the defensive side of the ball where the Bengals need to do a better job of stopping the run. Will they be able to keep a struggling Minnesota offense down or will Culpepper & Co. explode for a big game resulting in the Vikings getting the win?


When the Vikings have the ball

Rushing: Minnesota failed to establish the run last week finishing with just 26 rushing yards on 16 carries. That lack of balance on offense took pressure off the Tampa Bay defense and it put it squarely on Culpepper's shoulders. With Culpepper struggling last week and this game on the road, the Vikings need to get back to running the ball effectively. The problem is that will be easier said than done because of their personnel at running back and, more importantly, questions along the offensive line.
Strong offensive line play is essential to running the ball effectively and that's especially true when it comes to backs like Michael Bennett. Bennett is explosive and he has the breakaway speed to go the distance once he gets into the open field but he lacks the lower body strength to consistently pick up yards after contact. While backups Mewelde Moore and Moe Williams run with more power than Bennett, Moore, who sustained an ankle injury last week, may not be available and Williams isn't an every-down back. That means Minnesota's line must do a considerably better job of creating seams for the backs and there's reason to believe they won't be able to do it. LOT Bryant McKinnie injured his leg last week so he may not be available and the Vikings replaced rookie ROG Marcus Johnson with Adam Goldberg during last week's game. It's also important to note that OC Matt Birk is out for the year and his replacement Cory Withrow is a marginal starter. Even if McKinnie plays, his injury could hinder him and the inconsistent play will likely continue at right guard as well as center. As a result, Minnesota could have a hard time running the ball despite the fact Cincinnati surrendered an average of over five yards per carry to the Browns in Week 1.

Passing: Culpepper, who lost two fumbles and threw three interceptions last week, must do a better job of protecting the football regardless of how much support he gets from the running game. The Bengals recorded 20 interceptions last year, tying them with New England for seventh in that category, and they picked off two passes last week. They are capable of turning any mistakes Culpepper makes throwing the ball into interceptions that produce either points or quality starting field position for the offense. With the offensive line struggling right now, Culpepper must be willing to throw the ball away or take the sack away when he doesn't get enough time to read the defense and find the open man. He must also cover the ball when he feels the pocket starting to collapse around him and when he takes off to run because Cincinnati defenders will look to knock the ball loose whenever they get to him.
Last week the Vikings were penalized nine times for 70 yards and TE Jermaine Wiggins had two touchdown passes called back last week. With the running game sputtering and the offensive line still gelling, Minnesota must avoid costly penalties that create longer down and distances and disrupt the rhythm of the offense. The challenge for the Vikings will be playing with discipline on the road. With this being the Bengals' first home game of the season, the crowd at Paul Brown Stadium will be loud and disruptive.

When the Bengals have the ball

Rushing: NT Pat Williams is an eight-year veteran that has 14 career sacks so he doesn't make many big plays. However, he's a difference maker in the sense that he makes the rest of the interior run defense better. Williams has the quickness to beat blockers to the point of attack and he's almost impossible to move once he establishes position. His ability to occupy multiple blockers at the line of scrimmage frees up UT Kevin Williams and MLB Sam Cowart. Kevin Williams is developing into one of the best DTs in the league and he has the burst to disrupt running plays in the backfield. Although Cowart has lost a step with age, he is instinctive and he fills hard when he reads run. As a result, Cincinnati may not have much success running inside where RB Rudi Johnson does most of his damage.
One of the ways Bengals' offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski will try to neutralize the strength of Minnesota's run defense and help his backs turn the corner is pulling the play side guard. Pulling the guard creates quality blocking angles, as it allows the tackle to block down on Williams who generally lines up on the outside shoulder of the guard. With OGs Eric Steinbach and Bobbie Williams big enough to engulf the Vikings' outside linebackers, this approach should work. It's also important to note that backup RB Chris Perry is a better perimeter runner than Johnson so he could play a bigger role this week.

Passing: Palmer is playing with a great deal of poise rand it's unlikely he makes many mistakes unless Minnesota finds a way to shake his confidence. Look for defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell to mix in some 3-4 fronts with the Vikings' base 4-3 fronts as a result. The 3-4 allows Cottrell to mask where he's going to bring the fourth and sometimes fifth rusher from, effectively keeping the offense off balance. That could result in a breakdown in the pass protection, receivers adjusting their routes incorrectly and Palmer throwing into coverage. It's also worth noting that backup OLB Keith Newman, who enters the game when Cottrell goes to the 3-4 front, has the explosive first step and closing speed to be an effective rushing the passer.
One of the biggest reasons getting to Palmer is important is he should have some favorable matchups to exploit when the Bengals spread the field. Minnesota doesn't have the depth at corner to match up when the Bengals go to their multiple-receiver sets, especially with nickel back Brian Williams struggling last week. The Vikings replaced Williams with dime back Ralph Brown during the game last week and it's unclear which one of them will line up there this week. However, Palmer must be careful to look the safeties off when throwing downfield and he must make an effort to spread the ball around. FS Darren Sharper is a playmaker that reads opposing quarterback's eyes and isn't afraid to jump routes if Palmer starts going to one receiver too much.

Post Game Thoughts

Here are my final grades for the Sunday Loss.

QB- Daunte was bad, 5 turnovers. The pass to Moe Williams at the end was bad and cost them the game. He wasn't close on some passes on third and short. This was his worst game since the Oakland game in 2003, although it was probably worst. Grade-F

RB-I don't even need to think about this. Micheal Bennett did run hard though, but when you get 16 carries for 26 yards. Grade-F

WR- Burleson struggled with his routes. Travis Taylor is a pretty nice player. Marcus Robinson probably should have let Taylor get that ball on third and goal. Their was just no way Robinson was going to catch it in bounds. Troy Williamson was no existent. Wiggins and Kleinsasser were OK. Wiggins should have had at least one touchdown. Grade-C+

OL-Terrible, Terrible though they were ok when Adam Goldberg replaced Marcus Johnson-F+
The Run Blocking was beyond bad.


Offensive MVP: Jermaine Wiggins he should have had at least 1 touchdown, but it got called back due to a phantom offensive pass-interference. I can't really comment on the validity of the second touchdown that was called back.

DL-Pat Williams is a stud, Spencer Johnson made a nice rush on the BUCS 2nd touchdown, They didn't put real good pressure on the second quarter. But they were probably quite tired due to the fact they were constantly on the field-Grade B

LB-They didn't do anything really bad. Rod Davis wasn't that out of position on the first Alex Smith touchdown. Keith Newman had a nice game. Grade B

DB-Darren Sharper was a stud. Corey Chavous didn't do a lot. Winfield and Smoot played fairly well. Ralph Brown was a huge upgrade at nickleback in the second half. I will give them a grade minus Brian Williams of an A-

Brian Williams -F- He must have allowed about 4 3rd and long. He is not a capable NFL cornerback. He doesn't have the quickness, nor the techinque. He shouldn't just be on the bench, he should be out of the league.

MVP: Darren Sharper

Special Teams: Were quite good. Paul Edinger made a 53 yarder, Chris Kluwe looks like a NFL punter, averaging 54.3 yards per punt. Keenan Howry had a nice return that set up a field goal, with a nice return. The kick coverage was pretty good. Grade-B+

Where do we go from here.

* I think the Vikings will probably loss next week. If their O-line plays like they did today, then their is no point in even watching the game. Cincy played vastly better today, and they can run the ball.

* I thought 9-7 before the season started, I think this season could easily spiral in 6-10. I think Mike Tice could be gone during the bye. If they are 1-3, they need to fire Mike Tice.

*Thier coaching is no good. They knew what Tampa was going to do and they couldn't adjust.

*I look at the next football game of significance being Minnesota vs Purdue-Sept. 24

*Well if a team is 7-9 they might be able to contend in the NFC North.

*Mewelde Moore is banged-up, I really don't know how they are going to fix their running game.

*I'm not that down on the Defense for the 4th quarter Touchdown they did what they needed to try to make a play, and got beat. The Vikings only had allowed 1 second half first down before that. The only time the Defense was bad, when they were getting worn down in the second quarter, when the Offense had no first downs.

*Early pick for next week Cincinnati 24 Minnesota 17.

Koren Robinson

I can't be excited about this. I just don't really see the point. Sure Koren Robinson is a talent, but is he really any better than what they have now. His work ethic is questionable, and his presence in the Lockerroom is the same. Pro Football Weekly summed this move up in such a way that I have turned from indifferent to against it. http://www.profootballweekly.com/PFW/Commentary/Spins/2005/spins090605.htm


Minnesota close to making move for Koren Robinson
According to published reports, the Vikings and WR Koren Robinson agreed to terms on a two-year contract on Monday evening. Robinson, a former first-round pick, had off-the-field issues with Seattle and was released. He has multiple strikes against him in the NFL’s substance-abuse program and is to stand trial for a DUI on Sept. 14. According to those reports, Robinson was told by the NFL that he would not be suspended no matter the outcome of the trial. Robinson figures to be the Vikings’ No. 4 or No. 5 receiver behind Nate Burleson, Travis Taylor, Marcus Robinson and rookie Troy Williamson.
PFW: Why would the Vikings, who have been burned by troubled players in the past, take such a risk?
Reynolds: There is much anti-Robinson sentiment around the NFL. No one questions his talent. Coming out of North Carolina State, Robinson was billed as the next Randy Moss because of his combination of size, speed and hands. But Robinson never was fully focused on football. Former teammates have said he was a distraction and a disruption on and off the field. Now the Vikings, who dumped Randy Moss to create a tighter bond in the locker room and help on-field chemistry between QB Daunte Culpepper and his other receivers, are bringing in a clone of Moss’ personality and one with 10 times the baggage away from the field. Robinson spent time in an alcohol rehabilitation facility, has at least two strikes against him in the NFL’s substance-abuse program and has more than 15 traffic tickets. He was twice suspended by head coach Mike Holmgren in Seattle for being tardy and/or unattentive. Last year, one team official said the Seahawks held the bus to the airport on multiple occasions for Robinson. The Vikings are rich at the WR position, even if you agree with some scouts that they don’t have a No. 1 receiver. For that reason, head coach Mike Tice must have a short leash with Robinson. The team has been embarrassed with non-football issues in recent years, ranging from Moss’ run-in with a meter maid, Kenny Mixon’s multiple DUI infractions, team officials being cited at a holiday party, Tice’s Super Bowl ticket scandal and Onterrio Smith’s infamous public undoing surrounding the use of a drug-test avoidance device. Under new ownership, it is a great surprise the Vikings would roll the dice on Robinson when his presence isn’t a big need. Could it pay off? Sure. It could also backfire.


I'll be the first to want to give someone a second chance. I might take a chance on a Center, or a RB or some position of need. But I am just not quite sure, how this will play out. Especially with Robinson in a number 5 receiver role.

Vikings vs Bucs Preview

From ESPN Insider found at http://proxy.espn.go.com/nfl/scouting?gameId=250911016

Why To WatchLife after Randy Moss begins in Minnesota on Sunday, and expectations couldn't be any higher. The window of opportunity is closing quickly for head coach Mike Tice and the Vikings. As we have found out during Tice's tenure; getting off to a fast start doesn't ensure a successful season. However, with new ownership and so much money spent in the offseason to upgrade an ailing defense, a win in front of the home crowd sure would help to ease the burden.
How good is the upgraded defense with five imported starters? Can QB Daunte Culpepper keep up his torrid pace without Moss as his go-to-target? Does anyone want to step up as the Vikings' starting running back? Sunday's opener should help to answer these questions regarding one of the 2005 favorites to win the NFC.
Tampa Bay head coach Jon Gruden is starting to feel some heat of his own. The Bucs are trying to shovel out of a big salary cap hole while also righting the ship following a 5-11 season. Young talent has been added at key offensive skill positions, but can Brian Griese really stay healthy for an entire 16-game NFL season?


When the Buccaneers have the ball

Rushing: Tampa Bay is in the process of overhauling its offensive line. While the unit has a lot of young talent to be excited about for the future, things could get ugly early on this season. Rookie Dan Buenning appears to have won the job at left guard, which means he will line up next to another first-year starter in Anthony Davis at left tackle. John Wade is the elder-statesman at center and Kenyatta Walker also has good starting experience at right tackle, but ROG Jeb Terry is another first-year starter sandwiched between those two.
With a rookie starter at running back in Cadillac Williams, the Buccaneer offense could be an adventure early this season. Williams does not possess great size, but he's a slippery and tough running back who can break off big runs if he has a viable crease to hit.
Generating running room against the Vikings defense won't be nearly as easy as it has been in past seasons. NT Pat Williams is a big addition in the middle of the unit. Not only will his presence open up room for UT Kevin Williams, it also will help to free up linebackers to roam on the second level. Look for the Vikings to start Darrion Scott -- a DT/DE 'tweener with great size at the DE position -- and use him on obvious running downs before replacing him with rookie pass-rush specialist Erasmus James.
With Scott, Kenechi Udeze (LDE), Kevin Williams and Pat Williams wreaking havoc up front, the new-and-improved Viking linebacker corps of Napoleon Harris, Sam Cowart and E.J. Henderson should have the room they need to roam sideline-to-sideline in run support. Furthermore, with Antoine Winfield and Fred Smoot serving as lock-down corners on the perimeter; look for DSs Corey Chavous and Darren Sharper to be cheated up and heavily involved versus the run.

Passing: Griese gave the Buccaneer passing game a shot in the arm last season, as he had multi-touchdown games in seven of his 10 starts. However, he has always been a brittle quarterback. He does not lack toughness, but he simply has trouble staying healthy. Furthermore, he has a strong tendency of throwing the ball up for grabs and making too many mental errors when consistently put under pressure.
With three first-year starters in front of him and a rookie running back behind him, Griese could be in for a punishing opener on Sunday. The Vikings get great pressure from Kevin Williams at the UT position. Furthermore, with Udeze, Scott, James and Lance Johnstone rotating in-and-out at the defensive end positions, the Vikings should have no problem pressuring Griese with a four-man rush.
Griese has a decent supporting cast to throw to if he has time. Joey Galloway provides some speed opposite emerging star Michael Clayton. However, neither player has the explosive burst to threaten Winfield or Smoot vertically. Ike Hilliard is a viable option as the team's No. 3 receiver but the Vikings have one of the league's better nickel cornerbacks in Brian Williams, who will use his size and strength to smother the smaller and more delicate Hilliard at the line.
TE Anthony Becht offers little in the passing game, which means Cadillac Williams and Michael Pittman must serve as reliable underneath outlets for Griese in order to prevent a meltdown when the Vikings' pass rush starts to get to him.

When the Vikings have the ball

Rushing: Michael Bennett is expected to start but will be limited because of a neck injury suffered in the preseason. Mewelde Moore is also coming off an ankle injury and likely will only be used in the return game. As a result, Moe Williams will have to carry more of the load for a depleted Vikings' running back unit. Williams is a consummate pro who has carved an excellent niche as a short-yardage runner, third-down specialist and special teams' contributor. However, Williams' lack of speed and explosiveness really limits the Vikings' offensive potential in this game.
WLB Derrick Brooks' ability to stay unblocked and pursue in space will prevent Williams from ripping off many long runs in this game. Bennett has much more speed and can provide more of the home-run threat, but it is anyone's guess if he can hold up throughout the game. If he does, Bennett certainly gives the Vikings more explosiveness in their spread attack.
The Vikings have a great size advantage up front in the running game. The key will be for their offensive line to consistently get in position in order to exploit that advantage. Bucs' LDT Chris Hovan will certainly look to pay back his former team in his first game back in Minnesota. If Hovan plays to his potential and gives a greater effort than he did in his final two seasons with the Vikings, he could give rookie ROG Marcus Johnson some trouble.

Passing: The depleted running back position also negatively affects the Vikings in the passing game. While Williams has excellent hands and route running skills as an underneath receiver, he's not fast or explosive to separate from Brooks in man-to-man coverage, which will take away one of the security blankets for QB Daunte Culpepper in the passing game. Bennett is explosive after the catch but he's not a great route runner and the team likely will limit his playing time in the passing game as a result of his neck injury. Moore has great versatility as a receiver out of the backfield when healthy, but as mentioned; his role will likely be limited to the return game.
With Moss gone, the production of the passing game is to be spread out much more. Nate Burleson is clearly the No. 1 receiver but Culpepper also has decent weapons to throw to in WRs Marcus Robinson, Travis Taylor and rookie Troy Williamson, as well as TE Jermaine Wiggins and H-Back Jim Kleinsasser.
The Bucs will continue to use a Cover 2 look as their primary coverage in the secondary. Brooks certainly helps because of his ability to keep the Viking running backs in check. With Ronde Barber and Brian Kelly healthy, the Bucs also have the cornerback play to match up in this zone scheme, so long as DSs Dexter Jackson and Jermaine Phillips do their job in deep-halves coverage. However, the versatility of the Vikings' passing attack could give the Bucs some trouble.
Look for new offensive coordinator Steve Loney to spread things out with three-receiver looks, as well as two-tight, two-receiver, one-back looks that will put pressure on the Bucs' safeties and linebackers. If RDE Simeon Rice and the Bucs' front-four can't get to the quarterback on their own, Culpepper should have an efficient showing spreading the ball around to eight or nine different targets.

Monday Thoughts-Tampa Pregame

*I don't think Chris Kluwe will be the Vikings punter Sunday, I don't know who will be. Darren Bennett wasn't that good in the Pre-Season, Travis Dorsch looked pretty good. So I don't know what to think.

Should the Vikings sign Koren Robinson? Robinson has some talent. He has a good size/speed ration. Hopefully he has turned his life around. Robinson can sometimes lack focus. The Vikings don't really need another receiver. I guess I am indifferent here. I guess if they think Robinson could help out with Punt Returns. I worry about a guy like Robinson who has been a 1 or 2 his whole career, maybe starting as a 5.

Intial thoughts vs Tampa

*Of Tampa's 11 loses last year. 8 were by a touchdown or less. Another two were by 10 points. This isn't a team that gets blown out.

*Tampa's defense came back some last year. Their big weakness was running between the tackles. Signing Chris Hovan sure didn't help out. But the Vikings Offensive weakness is running up the middle.

*Tampa's Defensive Ends are actually pretty good playing the run. Tampa's linebackers can probably be exploited except for Derrick Brooks on the Weakside. So the Vikings might have to in place of a running game, do a short passing game.

*Tampa was number 1 against the Pass last year, and their D-line can still bring pressure. They're not that good at safety, but their corners Brian Kelly and Ronde Barber are a top 5 combo in the league.

*Tampa's O-line is bad. Although Kenyatta Walker has actually developed into their best blocker, this is a match-up the Vikings can exploit.

*Tampa is just OK at wide receiver, Joey Galloway has lost explosiveness. Micheal Clayton is pretty good, and actually is the type of receiver Brian Williams could match-up against. I don't expect Clayton to get off on Sunday.

*The Vikings should be pretty good playing the run, the only concern is plays run to the weakside against EJ Henderson. But I don't expect Cadillac Williams to go for 125, I am guessing more in the neighborhood of 75-85.

*Daunte Culpepper is going to see a variety of looks from Tampa's defensive front. They are probably going to throw similar blitzes at Daunte Culpepper to the ones thrown at him by the Redskins last year.

*The Vikings will do ok running the Ball. I see Micheal Bennett getting around 60 yards on 15-18 carries.

*Tampa isn't going to be able to block the Vikings interior D-line. If Kevin Williams is in shape, he could have a big day.

I see the Vikings winning 21-20. I would take Tampa in Vegas.

*The Vikings D will win the game late, cause Brian Greise will make some sort of mistake. Daunte Culpepper will do just enough on Offense to win. I think Daunte maybe runs one or two short touchdowns in. I also like Marcus Robinson to contribute sunday. If someone wanted me to pick an MVP, i know this is going to drive Chad crazy: Napoloen Harris who actually has been playing pretty good of late especially against the run, I think he will do a stand-up job against the run, and make an impact as a blitzer.

*I will post the Scouts, INC preview later this week.

Viking Roster Thoughts

*I've got mixed thoughts on the Nat Dorsey trade. First of all they traded a talented tackle who hadn't turned 22 yet. Dorsey was tough once he got his hands on someone. As shown though Friday Night, he is slow off the ball. Dorsey could really throw some nice run blocks. That said, Dorsey was out of shape, and thought to be a questionable worker. I would have liked to see him stick around, but they had more needs in the interior line. The Vikings probably wouldn't have made this trade if G-CAnthony Herrea had been healthy. Melvin Fowler had pretty decent talent being a third-round pick. He is supposed to be a hard worker. Fowler was surronded by pitiful talent the last few years in Cleveland. He is supposed to be better at Center than Guard. Fowler can move well, and trap block. He does lack power though against big DT's. I'm not so sure Adam Goldberg's long-term future wouldn't be inside, instead of outside. But Goldberg didn't do all that bad as the season went on last year.

*I'm a bit surpised Devonte Edwards-DB NC State, made the team they must have thought he had a lot of special team potential. I hear Edwards is ok in coverage, I just thought he would maybe be on the pratice squad. Laroni Gallingshaw was better than Adrian Ward, although Ward maybe could play in the NFL someday.

*Other that not really any surprises. I thought Angulo would maybe have the inside track at Tight End, but Berton and Owens are fine as back-up tight ends.

*Some people want to know why Ryan Hoag didn't make the team. The answer is he didn't offer enough. He is a decent receiver, but he was showing it against third-string Defensive backs. He doesn't have any sort of real gift that would cause seperation in the NFL, and he didn't offer enough on special teams.

*Why did Keenan Howry make the team. They know he isn't going to fumble punts, case closed.

*Why did Darren Bennett make the team and not Travis Dorsch? I don't know.

*Why didn't the Vikings keep an extra RB. Well the Vikings will run mostly one back sets, so they didn't really need 5 Rb's.

*Raonall Smith made the team on potential, but he has enough that even though he'll get injured early, he should still be on the Vikings.

Vikings-Seahawks Thoughts

*The first team Defense has surrended touchdowns, the last three times they have been on the field versus First-Team Offenses. Although it was a real nice throw that it got done by Hasselbeck they were struggling before that. Will Tampa Bay score every time they get the ball a week from Sunday, probably not. But I expect Tampa despite their weak O-line to score about 24 points Sunday and that's not real good. Safeties seem to be constanly out of position, their pass-rush has been no existent with the first team D. Even the corner play hasn't been all that good. You can't run up the middle versus the Vikings, but their are other areas to attack. unless they break out all sorts of new looks versus Tampa Bay , I see trouble on D.

*The O-line keeps improving week by week. Other than not picking up Lofu Taputu in the first quarter on a blitz, they held up in pass protection fine. They also made a few nice blocks in the running game, led by Marcus Johnson.

*My concern with Daunte Culpepper isn't that he will not be able to attack a base-defense. But he runs into problems when teams throw all sorts of looks against him (ex vs Redskins last year,) He is going to be thrown a lot of different things versus Tampa in 2 weeks. So we will see then.

*Ciatrick Fason did impress me with his hard-running style. I could see him being a nice-change of pace back down the line.

*If the Vikings kickoff coverage doesn't improve it will cost them a close game or two!!!

*Here is who should have made the team last-night: Will Hunter, CJ Mosley (Keep him over Martin, since they should really rotate Spencer Johnson in a lot, and Mosley has more long term potential), and Rod Davis.

*Darren Bennett, Yikes. I would go with Travis Dorsch but what do I know.

*Shaun Hill what a play to win the game.

Should Nat Dorsey make the team? Yes, even though he had three-holding penalties, and strguggled hering the crowd noise. It wasn't since he got beat so much, as he was late in reacting. I have seen Dorsey make quite a few nice blocks. He offers more than Shannon Snell as a back-up tackle. Unless, they can find someone on the waiver wire better.

Should Kelly Campbell make the team? Yes, he offers more at Wide Receiver than either Ryan Hoag, or Keenan Howry. Neither of those guys offers much in the return game.

Who should return Punts and Kicks? Kelly Campbell, Troy Williamson is just too valuable. I would team Mewelde Moore with Kelly on kickoffs.

I will give intial thoughts for Tampa, and last cut report sometime in the next few days.

AFC West Response

I will disagree with you on Denver. They have very good linebackers Wilson, Gold, Williams-This might be the best trio in the AFC. Thier secondary will be good with Champ Bailey and Lenny Walls who is a pretty decent CB on the outside. I think the guys on the D-line although the weakness of their Defensive will be better than last year in Cleveland, where their back 7 isn't even close in comparsion of talent. Brown and Warren have shown flashes through out their career. Basically they wouldn't be any worse on Defense than last year. Plummer is about average, their O-line is still quite good like Kansas City's and will be able to open enough runnin lanes so they stay the same. Denver was 10-6, and I see them about the same. Kenoy Kennedy was physical, but not that good in coverage.

So from last year, I see three teams as better (Oakland, San Diego, Kansas City), and Denver staying about the same. My basic point was that the AFC West is superior to the NFC North.