Wolves Can't Finish

The Timberwolves have been a different team this year.The team is much more exciting to watch, and the fans of Minnesota think so too. Over the past few weeks Target Center has been looking like it did 7 years ago, the lower level is full and the upper level is 3/4 full. It is great for the Timberwolves who are exciting to watch and seem to have the talent to win, or be in every game. The only problem facing this team is that they seem to fold every time midway through the fourth quarter. The Wolves look to be getting a little better at the problem after winning 2 of their last three games, but the fourth quarter fold happened again last night against the Nuggets. The Wolves were winning throughout most of the game, and they were only down by 2 with 2 minutes to go in the game, but the Wolves were unable to get a stop. This young Wolves squad seems to be able to score almost at will, but last night it was Billups who was scoring at will when it counted most. The Wolves would always make a big three or play to take the lead or tie, and the next possession Billups would follow with a three of his own to take the momentum back. I am hoping these fourth quarter woes are a results from the inexperience of the team. Once the wolves can figure out how to properly close out a game they will be dangerous. I like the young core of guys this team has. Beasley and Love have stepped up and are sharing the role of Alpha Wolf. Wes Johnson seems to be getting more comfortable out on the floor, and Webster has shown he came help this team in the scoring and defensive departments.

The wolves seem to be on the right track, and i think the more this team plays together the better they will be. Remember this is the first time many of these young guys have ever played with each other. I have been extremely impressed with the emergence of Love. He has an outstanding motor on him, he will not be denied if he wants a rebound. Although he is a bit undersized he is still able to get his shot off and showed it again last night with a 26 point 14 rebound performance. You can almost chalk up Beasley getting 20+ points a game, and he has improved his team play of late getting 6 assists and 4 assists in his last 2 games. Ridnour has been playing well of late, but still seems to have some bad turnovers.

One disappointment the wolves star rookie of last year has not had the comeback most fans have hoped for. since his return he is only averaging 17 minutes a game. Last night against the Nuggets he only had 11 minutes. Being a big Jonny Flynn fan i am hoping he can get more time and look like the player he looked like last year.

Rumor Mill- there has been some rumors going around that the wolves are interested in trading for OJ Mayo, a player who seems to be under performing for the Grizzlies only averaging 13 points and 1.8 assists per game. The Wolves have came out and shot this rumor down. Flynn's name has and will continue to come up in trade rumors because the Wolves figure to have Rubio coming over next year and many teams have shown interest in Flynn. The Wolves covet Flynn and i dont expect them to trade him for nothing.

 Rambis postgame press conference

Webb Takes Flight on Tuesday Night

Joe Webb looked like the better of the two quarterbacks on the field, and one of the quarterbacks was MVP candidate Michael Vick. Webb looked solid  from start to finish and was able to lead the Vikings to a big win. Webb was able to lead the Vikings offense with his passing and with the use of his legs. Webb who ran a 4.4 in the forty yard dash coming out of college, Vick also ran a 4.4, had 6 rushes for 31 yards and one touchdown. This game was not all about Joe Webb though, the defense was able to keep constant pressure on Vick. The where able to force him to turn the ball over on three different occasions, 1 int and 2 fumbles. The Vikings also had two plays that should have been clear cut interceptions. The Vikings did a great job keeping Vick flustered and hitting him as often as he could. Winfield was able to come off the edge on a corner blitz and sack Vick on the second play of the game. After that hit Vick had a noticeable limp. He was
never the same for the rest of the game, he injured the leg that he has to plant and push off of every throw.
The game took a turn for the Vikings right before halftime. Winfield was able to come off the edge again on a corner blitz and sack Vick causing a fumble. He was able to pick the fumble up and ran it in for a touchdown. This was a much needed play for the Vikings. This gave the Vikings the momentum and the game was dominated by the Vikings ever since. The Second half started with a big 46 yard play down the field to Harvin. Harvin was able to make some key catches throughout the game and helped Webb to his first win as a starting NFL quarterback. The rest of the second half was all Vikings they were able to move the ball up and down the field with the help of Adrian Peterson running the ball for over 100 yards. Webb was the story of the night, and no pass was bigger than the 3rd and 11 pass to Harvin with 3 minutes left. With this pass The Vikings were able to keep possession and not give Vick and there potent offense a chance to come back. Webb will give the Vikings something to think about going into next season looking for there next quarterback. If he can play like this and keep improving he would fit in well with the Vikings.

Highlights of the Game.

Joe Webb- was able to lead the Vikings to a win in his first NFL start. He went 17 of 26 for 195 yards. He did not throw a touchdown, although one did get overturned, but he also did not have an interception. He had 6 rushes for 31 yards and a touchdown. His touchdown also was a big play in the game and gave the Vikings the edge from that point on.

Adrian Peterson- was able to run wild. The two extra days off, gave Peterson the extra time needed to heal his ankle. Peterson ran 22 times for 118 yards and looked like his old self. He also was able to get in for a short touchdown. Peterson did have his first fumble of the year. Peterson was able to do his part and run well to keep some of the pressure of the rookie Webb.

Antoine Winfield- played extremely well, he was able to get pressure on Vick and had that big play right before half that i mentioned earlier. He ended with 8 tackles on the night, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery and 1 touchdown.

Percy Harvin- seemed to make a big play every time he touched the ball whether it was a first down or a big 3rd down conversion Harvin made big plays throughout the game none bigger than the 46 yard bomb right out of halftime. he ended with 7 catches for 100 yards.

Eagles- the Eagles looked terrible, they did not look like the team that we have seen over the past months.

Videos
Highlights
Webb's postgame press conference

New Field Same Results

The biggest news of the day was not that the Vikings were going to be playing their first outdoor football game since the 80's, or that they were going to be playing at TCF Bank, or the fact the Peterson was not playing, but it was that Brett Favre was going to start for the Vikings. Favre got the Vikings rolling on their first drive with a TD pass to Percy Harvin. You could here the fans cheers echoing throughout campus. Soon Favre reverted back to his 2010 season form and threw a pick, and was eventually knocked out of the game.

Then Joe Webb came in, a player who i think many of us were excited to see. I wanted to see what he could do at the QB position. He looked to be a better runner than passer. He ended with an abysmal passer rating of 38.8 he completed 15 of 26 for 129 yards and had 2 ints to go along with it.He was able to move the ball with his feet as he had six rushes for 38 yards and one touchdown. He was just not able to make second read after the bears had his first read covered. Even though he did not play well statistically, he leaves fans excited. He is the type of player were he can create a big play at any moment. Michael Vick is the type of player we all wish Joe Webb could be, but at first glance he has a long way to go. The Vikings safeties did not play a very strong game, they were beaten many times in there basic cover 2 set. The Vikings need to address the safety position in the off season.

. In fact if you are like me you are probably wishing the Vikes would have taken a chance on Vick last year and had him learn under Favre for a year and then he could be doing the same things in Minnesota like he is doing for the Eagles. You cant tell me that Vick wouldn't look great in a  Vikings jersey

Our quarterback of the future problem would be solved and he would fit nicely with the pieces the Vikes have in place.

The outcome of the game might not be all bad for Vikings fans, the good news is the Packers cant win the division and there chances of making the playoffs are slowly fading away. If the Vikings don't make the playoffs at least we can hope that the Packers don't make them either. Also the Vikings improved there draft status.

Highlights of the game

Percy Harvin was able to catch 5 balls for 72 yards and one touchdown. It was good to see him back out on the field after he missed the last two weeks with a migraine. He has been a steady bright spot for the Vikings during this tough season.

Webb was able to run it in for his first NFL touchdown he looked good running the ball.

Vidoes
Webbs Press conference
Game Highlights

Vikes look Deflated like Dome

What a loss. The Vikings game at Ford Field was one to be forgotten. They had no flow to their game and it was quite frankly hard to watch. Jackson didnt look real impressive, but then again who did last night. Peterson sure didnt help out the young quarterback. Peterson was getting hit in the back field before he could even get a tight grip on the ball. The Vikings will look to rebound next week at home against the Bears. They might play outdoors at TCF Bank Stadium, if the Metrodome isnt ready to go.

I dont even want to think about the game last night because it was so forgettable. What were your thoughts?

As for what you should watch out for is the Timberwolves tonight at 9:30. They will be getting back to of there studs to go along with Beasley and Love. Flynn and Webster are going to be making their first appearances of the season tonight.

Jonny's Recovery

Vikes look to Prevail after Dome Fails

Wolves-Vikings Blog: Vikes look to Prevail after Dome Fails: "The nearly two feet of snow that fell in Minneapolis this weekend has left the Dome as doubtful on the injury report. The Metrodome collapse..."

Vikes look to Prevail after Dome Fails

The nearly two feet of snow that fell in Minneapolis this weekend has left the Dome as doubtful on the injury report. The Metrodome collapsed at about 5 in the morning, no one was hurt, and has left the vikings already postponed game, with even more changes. The Vikings will now face off against the Giants in Detroit at Ford Field at 6:20 Monday night. The game will be televised on Fox. The Dome's roof is held up by twenty 90 horse powered fans. This was not enough to withstand the 22 inches of snow that kept piling up on the top. The roof has three panels that have been torn and damaged. The Vikings have been contacting experts around the world trying to assess the situation. The Vikings had contacted the University of Minnesota, about playing at TCF Bank, but they said that the stadium has been shut down for the year. They said they could not get it ready by Monday night. 

Video of Dome Collapsing from inside
Another Video of Collapse

AS for what this means for the Vikings, this gives Favre one more day to recover from the sprained shoulder that has held him out of practice all week. Favre said he would not have been able to go if the game was today, but we will see what happens tomorrow. The Giants were stuck in Kansas City all night and now will have to go to Detroit. As for the game check back in after the game tomorrow night for blog about the game.

Wolves-Vikings Blog: Vikes Look Impressive with Jackson

Wolves-Vikings Blog: Vikes Look Impressive with Jackson: "The Vikes had there most productive half of the season with T Jack leading the charge. I went to the game and i was able to see the vikes we..."

Vikes Look Impressive with Jackson

The Vikes had there most productive half of the season with T Jack leading the charge. I went to the game and i was able to see the vikes were going to use Joe Webb as their kick returner. Since i have been saying they need to use an athlete of his caliber i was excited, he was also the 4th WR. The game started out ugly for the home team. Favre through a interception on his first pass. On that same play he was knocked out of the game with an injury to his throwing shoulder. After Favre went down it was T Jack time. I was expecting them to keep Jackson on a leash, but he came out throwing bullets. Sidney Rice helped Jackson's cause by making two great touchdowns. The Vikings were moving the ball with ease in the first half and posted 31 first half points. Jackson made one mistake early by under throwing a out route and Florence, from the Bills, read it the whole way and returned it for 6. After Favre went down Webb went back to his bench duties, since he was the only back up to Jackson. He did look impressive though on his first kick return getting it out to the 38 yard line.

The Vikings Defense looked like a different squad out their. They were playing with an attitude. I could realy see the corners looking like they were playing more aggressive. The vikings were able to do something that they never do, force turnovers. The Vikes recovered four fumbles, two by Robison, and had one interception by Winfield.

The second half the Vikes just coasted to a victory. Jackson took a few shots and through two more picks, but looked the part keeping the offense moving for the most part. The second half consisted of many run plays and fewer pass plays as the Vikes were trying to run the clock down. Adrian Peterson had only 16 carries on his gimpy ankle and was still able to gash the Bills defense racking up 107 yards, and three touchdowns. Gearhart has looked more like an NFL running back the more the season goes on.

Highlights-

Jackson's first TD to Rice was a catch that is routine for Rice, but is a incomplete for 90 % of the rest of the NFL. Rice caught it one handed will keeping his feet in bounds while fighting off to Bills defenders.

Winfield made his first interception of the year and was able to put the Vikes in great field position, returning it back to the 4 yard line.

Four fumble recoveries were a huge part of the Vikings success today. The defense was able to rally arounf the Bills ball carriers and force fumbles.

Peterson had three touchdowns on the day with a gimpy ankle. His third touchdown was the most impressive as he was able to break loose for a 43 yard run.

WEBB was able to play, I am just excited to see the Vikings trying to use one of their better athletes. He had a 30 yard kick return to start off the game. and played one play at WR, but was used as a decoy.

Full Vikes vs Bills Highlights

Frazier Gets 1st Win Despite the Injuries.

 

 Peterson

 After a very disappointing start season the Vikings finally were able to look productive under the new regime of head coach Leslie Frazier. Frazier wanted to get Peterson more involved in the game, than he was under Chilly. It was evident the first drive when Peterson was looking like a machine pushing the pile and making big plays down the field on a catch and run. Then just when Vikings fans were starting to feel good about themselves again, the best player on the team comes out of the pile and limped his way to the sideline. The extent of Peterson's injury is not yet known. The Vikings were able to plug the rookie Toby Gerhart into the lineup, and he did a good job of filling in. He had over 60 yards and 1 rushing touchdown. The defense seemed to be playing more like they were last year. They were able to get to the quarterback at a good rate and even got a interception. The Vikings are near the bottom of the league in takeaways, something that is a big problem for the Vikings this year. 

To me it seemed like the players were playing with some emotion. This was one of the few times i have seen this all year. I will give Frazier the benefit of the doubt and say he did a good job in his one week with the players to implement a fun aspect back into the game. One play that really showed me this team is going to fit until the end was Favre's impersonation of Michael Vick. Favre had a 10 yard scramble on third down and was able to scamper his way past the sticks before sliding. Every player wearing a Vikings Jersey had a smile on their face after that play. 

I was hoping the Vikings would use Webb or Jackson in a trick play, or the wildcat formation. This was not part of Frazier's game plan. I just can't understand how the so called best athlete on the team hasn't found his way onto the field for even one play this year. It seems to me like they could try to get him involved somehow.

Frazier's postgame speech was a good one. He was presented with the game ball. I am happy for Frazier and his staff. I know its not always all about the coaching, and that you need the talented players. But looking at this teams talent at each and every position, it was clear that coaching was playing a big role.

Wolves-Vikings Blog: Chilly out of Minnesota- Whats Next?

Wolves-Vikings Blog: Chilly out of Minnesota- Whats Next?: "Brad Childress Fired Better late than never is what most Vikings fans are thinking. On Monday one day after the Vikings suffered a horren..."

Chilly out of Minnesota- Whats Next?

Brad Childress Fired

Better late than never is what most Vikings fans are thinking. On Monday one day after the Vikings suffered a horrendous loss to the Packers, the Vikes let Chilly go, and will replace him with Leslie Frazier the defensive coordinator. The Vikings needed a change after starting this dismal season just 3 and 7, with for the most part the exact same players as last year. There were numerous reports of Vikings players getting into verbal conflicts, and really just having a lack of respect for Childress. When your starting QB does not talk with you, and the entire metrodome is chanting "FIRE CHILDRESS", maybe it was time to make a move. Frazier's interview. Frazier takes over, if you can remember last summer he had multiple interviews with different teams to be there head coach. It looks like he will get his chance to do just that now. Click here for Childress inital Statements

 Whats Next for the Vikings? With the hope of making the playoff completely shot down, should the vikes let Favre go? Favre who was one of the best QB's in the league last year, has come in this year and been plagued by turnovers. He is statistically in the top 3 for worst QB in the league with his league leading int's and fumbles his passer rating is 69.8. The only QB who has a worse QB rating is Matt Moore from Carolina with a 55.9 and he was benched for rookie Jimmy Clausen.

Favre is not going to do anything productive this year anymore, and i think the Vikes should look to play Webb and Jackson for the remainder of the year to see what they exactly have for potential QB's in house. Webb and Jackson have both been compared to young Michael Vick's and maybe Jackson has learned something after being Favre's understudy for 2 years. They are both mobile QB's something that has killed the Vikings defense in recent weeks, and something the Vikings offense desperately need. The O line has been terrible this year Peterson is getting hit as soon as he touches the ball, and Favre has had no time to make plays down the field.  Who would you rather see Webb, Jackson, or Favre for the remainder of the year?




It was a nice sight to finally see Sidney Rice out one the field. Hopefully he will resign with the Vikes next year

I came across this and it is very interesting how Hank Baskett is making more than Adrian Peterson. Look at the money some of the Vikings are earning. The Pro Bowler Sidney Rice doesn't even make $500,000.Check out the Vikings Pay grade

Vikes may have Blown Their Season in the Windy City

The Vikings playoff hopes might have just blown out the window, thanks to the Windy City. The Vikings have not been able to win on the road this year and they continued the trend Sunday in Chicago. The first drive the Vikings looked good driving the ball right down the field for a field goal. from that point on the offense looked stagnant to say the least. Peterson was getting hit by two Bears before he could even get back to the line. For having the best running back in the game you think the line, which has 2 probowlers on it, would be able to engage in the block and make a crease for Peterson. All he needs is a tiny crease, but that was not the case today. Aside from not run blocking very good, they cant keep a pocket, to provide Favre with some time to make a play. Favre is second this year for quarterback hits, that is something you don't want your 41 year old QB to go through. The Vikes lack of depth at the WR position was evident today. When you look out and see Baskett, Lewis, and Camirillo as the three WR on the field, you know it is not a good day. Brett Favre continued to throw more picks than touchdowns, granted they might not have all been his fault.

Where was the defensive intensity we saw at the end of the game last week? The Vikings were unable to get any pressure on Cutler and he was able to make play after play against the defense. Hussain Abdallah was able to have a career day making 2 interceptions, but that was not even close to enough to keep the Vikings in the game. The Bears have the worst third down convergence percentage in the league, but 3rd down after 3rd down they were able to convert. I don't understand how the Vikings have the same personnel as last year, but look like a completely different team.

Notes from the game

Percy Harvin was the standout on the offensive side of the ball once again, even though he was the only WR the Bears needed to worry about since Berrian and Rice were on the sideline in street clothes. He managed to fight through his migraine and ankle after not practicing at all this past week, and play in the game. He had 4 receptions for 64 yds and one TD. He left the game late when his ankle was rolled up under him on a kick return adding to the lack of depth at WR.

Peterson had zero room to run. He always breaks three tackles in the backfield to just to get back to the line of scrimmage.

 Defensive line was able to get no pressure on Cutler all day. The defense as a whole was not able to make stops when they needed to which continues to be a trend for them all season.

Hussain Abdallah intercepted 2 passes from Cutler.

Full game highlights
What do you think about the game?

Love Lifts Wolves to 2nd Straight

The Timberwolves rallied by the Knicks for their second consecutive win. In Sacramento it was Beasley who carried the wolves with his 42 points and energy, and Love was his wing man. Last night against the Knicks it was a different story, Love took on the role of Batman with his massive game of 31 points and 31 rebounds, and Beasley was robin pouring in 35 of his own. For Kevin Love his 30 30 game was the first in 28 years, that is a pretty special number to get too. Beasley said, "Kevin told me on the bench in the third quarter that I'm going for 30 tonight." Beasley thought he meant points, but Love was going for rebounds, and set a franchise record in the process. Wes Johnson also had a solid game with his 15 point effort. The wolves seem to be playing better defense over the past week, and seem to be gaining confidence as they continue to win. This could be a great combination mixing youth with confidence, hopefully the wolves continue to get after it on the defensive end. 

This is what wolves fans had hoped to see, an alpha wolf emerge. It seems like Love and Beasley are doing just that they are becoming young stars and carrying this young team. The future only looks brighter for the wolves. Word out of Wolves headquarters is that Jonny Flynn is targeting to return on Wednesday night. I expect it will take a few weeks before Jonny is back to 100%. In a few weeks Beasley and Love will still be carrying the team, Flynn will be healthy and playing his role as the floor general, and Webster will be on the mend. With the improved play of Brewer and Johnson over the past week, Rambis is going to have to make some tough decisions on who is going to get the minutes. Lets not forget about Ellington either who started the year as the Wolves SG. 

What do you think Rambis should do with his logjam at guard/small forward? Lets not forget Webster might be the best SG the wolves have.

watch Love's postgame reaction

B Easy Beasley

Lately the Wolves have been playing a little better basketball. They had an extremely tough stretch starting with Miami where the got beat by about 30 points a night, but we wont talk about that. The story that is happening now is in California. The youngest team in basketball played exceptionally well against the defending champs on Tuesday night. They where doing it with the same type of Defense that we had seen throughout the preseason. The players seemed to be more emotional out on the court the past two games against the Lakers and Kings. Love was the story of the game after the Lakers where he had his second career 20 20 effort.

2nd win of the season, Wolves/Kings Highlights

The Timberwolves beat the Kings last night in a game that gets Timberwolves' fans excited about this young squad. They did it again with defense and a little help from their young star Michael Beasley. Beasley poured in 18 first quarter points and ended the game with 42. Beasley could not miss in that first quarter. He is the one player the wolves can always turn too if they need a bucket. He can create his own shot, and he demonstrated that last night. It was not just his offense that helped the Timberwolves win it was his energy and leadership on the defensive end of the floor. He was often yelling across the court trying to help his teammates. This team has many good young players and i would love it if some of them could step it up and become that alpha wolf we have been looking for. Wes Johnson has been responding well to his role in the starting line up, and Brewer seems to be making more of an impact when he is on the court lately. 
Telfair has played exceptionally well after being inserted into the starting lineup because of injuries. In LA he had 13 and 9 and he too has brought a swagger and leadership to this young team.

The best part is that the Timberwolves have two of there top four players out with injury right now, Flynn and Webster. That is extremely important especially for the Timberwolves team who do not have a extreme amount of developed talent on their roster right now. Once they get those two skilled players back i look forward to more nights like last night against the Kings.

The Magic Has Returned

Wow, What a game!! First the Vikings looked like they would go ahead early and get an easy win against a sub par team at the Dome. This was not the case. the Vikings started out with some energy, after Camerillo made a great effort play to knock the ball loose on the first Favre interception, Camerillo highlight, play of the game.. The TV announcers made a great point, if Randy Moss would have been on the field instead of Camerillo, he most likely would have been pouting and already walking to the sideline. The rest of the first half was less exciting with the Vikings making defensive stops, and not being able to take advantage of the great field position. The kick return by Stephen-Howling, took the wind out of the sails a little bit. After the Vikes made a nice touchdown drive they responded on the very next play. The defense gave a a big touchdown right before half, a touchdown which hurt heading into the half. The start of the Second half was more of the same, Harvin fumbled the kick return and the Cardinals returned it for a touchdown. The Vikes seemed to have the energy taken from them. The defense was able to make some stops throughout the second half, and kept the Vikings in the game. The Vikes drove right down the field and were knocking on the door and then Favre threw a costly interception, I for one was thinking not this again. Then the Vikings made a stop, and the Favre made some good throws to set up the Peterson touchdown. From that drive on out the the magic was back in the dome. The Defense finally were able to get pressure on the QB, and make big play after big play. The offense scored at the end of regulation to tie,Shiancoe TD, and then were able to drive down the field for a game winning field goal. You could just see a different Vikings team out on the field, a team that looked like the team from last year. A team that played with energy and effort. A team that played for each other.

Take away from the games--

The emergence of Bernard Berrian was a welcome sight. Berrian ended with 9 receptions for 89 yards, and a huge catch in overtime to get the team down the field. He ended with 0 drops and looked like he was the Berrian of old. It was fun to see him step up after Moss was let go.

Harvin the Warrior--Harvin came in with a bum ankle and was able have a career day with 9 catches for 126 yards. After missing most of practice this week, he was able to come out and make play after play. You could see he was in pain, after almost every catch he would limp back to the huddle. He really showed with tremendous effort.

Peterson was mister reliable, he ended with 81 rushing yards and 63 receiving yards. He made a huge play in OT when he made a catch and flew down the field to set the Vikings up for the winning field goal.

Favre has career day, he looked tired, but was able to throw for 446 yards and make magical plays towards the end of the game.

Jared Allen finally tallies a sack, and the rest of the defense showed up and you could see it was like a light bulb went off and they made stop after stop. The defense finally was able to make the stop at the end of the game when they needed to which set up the winning drives.

The Vikings as a team looked just like that a team, Peterson said, "this is the beginning of a new season." They pulled together and gave all there effort to get this win for each other.  
They looked like the Vikings from last year.

Chilly's job is safe for now.

Are the Vikes done?

Going into this weeks game against New England, the Vikes where put in a position where they had to produce a win or their once optimistic season was in jeopardy of ending early. To the dismay of Vikings fans everywhere they did not come up with a win against the Patriots who have been lights out at home. I was expecting to see the Vikings come out hungry and ready to see our D-Line show what they have shown in the past. Once again i did not see anything of this nature. Is it that our line is getting too old? Is it the Brett Favre distraction that is holding back this team? I would love to know the answer to that question. This same Vikings team who during the offseason and into training camp where many peoples favorite to represent the NFC in the Superbowl, have put themselves in a very difficult position to earn a playoff spot.

The story going into the game was will Brett Favre keep the streak alive, and the return of Randy to New England. Favre played well up until he had to be carted off the field with a what appeared to be a serious jaw injury. He took care of the ball for the most part, and hit Percy many times over the middle. His lone interception on the day was not a terrible throw, rather a great defensive play. As for the return of Moss, well that did not live up to the hype. He tallied 1 catch for 8 yards, although he did have a big pass interference play which would have been a touchdown.

Peterson and Harvin continue to be the vikings most explosive players. Harvin gave everyone a scare when he had to be helped of the field early in the 1st quarter. He came back and had a great game with 6 receptions for 104 yards, and what appeared to be a crucial 2 pt conversion catch at the time. If the Vikings do somehow turn this around, these to players will play a huge role. Tavaris Jackson who came in late for Favre, threw a touchdown  and had a nice 33 yd run. He will have to step his game up and show everyone what he can do if Favre's injury is serious.

The defense continues to lack in making the big stop at the end of the game, we have seen it many times this year. When the Vikes needed a stop most the where unable to make it. The defense as a whole got slashed by Benjarvus Green Ellis for 112 yards, most of which came in the second half. This year was viewed as an all or nothing for both the defense and offense with many players not under contract beyond this year. Well it seems to me it is looking more like a nothing year.

His Final Goodbye

Randy Moss has been cut one month after the vikes traded a 3rd round pick for the talented WR. This comes just one day after he was critical of the vikings coaches and was over complimentary of the entire Patriots team. Moss did not put up big numbers in his short stay with the vikes, many times he looked to be lacking in effort. Especially the Pass interference call against the Pats, did the ball not land right in front of him? All in all this is a huge surprise to Vikings fans. This ads more to the question are the Vikings done? Why cut Moss?

Vikings Loss is Costly

Favre has two broken bones in his left ankle, the ankle he had surgically repaired this off season. The good news is they are just stress fractures and will not require surgery. He is in a walking boot, but has not been ruled out for this Sundays game at New England.

Game Recap
The vikings once again were close within the final minutes of the game, but unlike last year they can't seem to close the deal. I thought for sure during that last drive we were going to get the espy moment like last year in San Fran, and that the Vikings would get back on track. Unfortunately that was not the case. Adrian Peterson was the offensive star of the game with Percy Harvin closely behind. Percy Harvin has emerged as one of the most explosive players in the league. He can do it all. There were two plays in the game that really upset me, first the Packers touchdown in the second quarter where the TE did not maintain possession of the ball all the way throughout the play. The refs missed the plain as day call, and then the Vikings coaches somehow screwed up and there end and didn't throw the challenge flag. Second of all the Shiancoe touchdown, which was a great catch was ruled a touchdown on the field. The ball may have moved when it hit the ground, but he never lost possession, even the announcers could not see how they overruled the play. These two plays would have changed the whole game. I wold like to see the Vikes throw the ball up to Moss a little more to stretch the field. I was disappointed with the play calling during the game it was either 10 runs in a row or 10 passes, even i was calling what we were running before the play.

The return of Chris Cook was less then exceptional, he was beat on several plays and then benched in the first half. He will need to make an impact on this defense to sure up the pass coverage. I can't figure it out why Fave continues to throw interceptions. He made some boneheaded plays including 2 of the 3 interceptions, and then the play when he was outside the pocket and underhanded it down the field instead of throwing it away out of bounds. He seems like he doesn't have it anymore.

Watch this to get you excited about next weeks possibilities

Put me in coach.

Wolves-Vikings Blog: Panic Bowl Champions, Vikes Victorious

Wolves-Vikings Blog: Panic Bowl Champions, Vikes Victorious: "Wow, what a close game. The offense did not look like it did in the second half of the Jets game Monday night, but they looked good enough ..."

Panic Bowl Champions, Vikes Victorious

Wow, what a close game. The offense did not look like it did in the second half of the Jets game Monday night, but they looked good enough to get the win. It seems to me, it has been a trend of the Vikings this year, that in the first half the O line has trouble blocking and Favre looks scared. This was extremely evident early on when Favre continued to take big hit after big hit. I was extremely disappointed, during the first half when it was 3 and about 7. Favre could do anything except take a sack, because that would take us out of field goal range. Now Favre being a wiley old vet i expected him to know enough that when you are outside the tackle box all you have to do is throw the ball out of bounds. Needless to say he was under a lot of pressure.

 EJ Henderson played an outstanding game. He had over 9 tackles and 2 interceptions. He really lead the Vikings defense. I don't know where Jared Allen has been. I know he is getting double teamed, but that has been the case the last 3 years. Maybe next week against the Packers he will go crazy like he did last year. The Vikes could really use some sacks, or quarterback pressure to make it easier on the deflated pass defense. Chris Cook should help this pass defense play stronger against the Pack next week. Asher Allen continues to play solid, but Lito sheppard was beaten time after time. The Vikings did an extremely good job of tackling today, and really put a stop to what seemed to be 100 screens by the Cowboys offense.

Percy Harvin finally broke loose this week in the return game.Harvins Return highlight. He has been so fun to watch ever since he was drafted by the Vikings. He seemed to be all over the field today often lining up in the backfield on third down. He continues to grow and help this team any way that he can. Kudos Percy. The passing game today consisted  of many underneath passes. Favre rarely stretched the field with his new toy Moss or Harvin. Moss did play a crucial role in helping move the team down the field at the start of the second half. The cowboys were playing very soft coverage and Favre was able to throw it in their for a few first downs. As predicted Peterson had a heavy workload, but the Cowboys for the most part were able to do a fairly good job of holding him down.

Vikings miss Chester Taylor, i dont think that that is even a question. They do not have a solid third down back that can pick up the blitz, and be threat out of the backfield. Gerhart was drafted to fulfill that role but as of right now he does not fit the bill. I think this could be very crucial as the season progresses, because third down is such a crucial down. I would like for someone to emerge, and it looked like Harvin was getting the reps back there at the end of the game.


What were your thoughts on the game?


 

Young Wolves Fall/ Vikings Need a Win

Starting off the Timberwolves who are the youngest team in the NBA by average, could not overcome the back to back test. The lost to the pacers on Wednesday night just after the impressive victory at home against the Denver Nuggets. Against the Nuggets Everything was clicking they were running the floor Ridnour was doing a masterful job of playing uptempo basketball without forcing turnovers. The exciting new acquisitions of Beasley, Webster, and Johnson were also a very bright spot for the wolves on Tuesday night accounting for over 50 points of offense. The Timberwolves managed to put up 122 points while many of there starters were only playing for half of the game. This just shows how mush young talent the Wolves have on this team. But most impressive not only did they do it with offense they played a very aggressive style of defense and had over 10 blocks on the night.To see the Highlight of this game click here, there were many. On Wednesday it was a different story the wolves looked tired and out of it. Rambis said that fatigue played a huge factor in the loss. The Wolves are now 3 and 1 and looking hopeful. I hope that Beasley or Johnson or somebody can develop into that superstar role that the Wolves have been lacking since the loss of Kevin Garnett. Who do you think has the potential to be the new star of the Wolves squad?

 On another note wouldn't it be great to see KG come back like moss did with the Vikings?


As for the Vikings they find themselves right in the middle of the Panic Bowl. They received word the Cedric Griffin, who had been rehabilitating his left knee ACL injury, now has torn his ACL in his right knee after playing in his second game since his return. Chris Cook the Vikings second round pick this year could make an appearance this week after coming back from his second knee surgery of this young season. He would definitely help the Vikings Secondary. The big question everyone has about this game though is will Favre be healthy enough to make it through the whole game, or even the season? Favre has told reporters he would potentially sit out a game or two to get his tendenitis in his throwing arm to calm down, to see Favre's press conference click here. If he should not go TJack who has been getting all the reps with the first team at practice this week is ready to show what he is made of. I am one of the few who think TJack still could be good, call me crazy but he has looked good lately. I think Peterson will have a big game against the cowboys, because they will not want to over stress Favre's elbow. So for all you fantasy studs start getting excited. The Vikings need to win this game to keep that glimmer of hope alive.

What are some of your predictions for the game on Sunday? And  if Favre continues to struggle when do u sit a 20 million dollar man?

1 and 3 after late game surge

Looking back at the first half I cant think of one play that caught my attention. I feel like Favre had no time and when he did have time he wasnt able to make a play. He had two unforced fumbles and seemed to be missing passes as a result of no time in the pocket. I do have to give credit to the defense who time after time held the Jets who always seemed to start with great field position to field goals. Then comes the second half. Favre looked to regain some of his magic after a 40 yd bomb to Moss. It was his 500th of his career and he seemed to be looking like the Favre of old. It was great to see the Moss of old come threw and make a big touchdown grab to change the game. One of the things that was disappointing was the lack of discipline with many penalties, and the missed opportunities when Winfield missed the interception. That would have provided fantastic field position for the Vikings, something that did not come easy for them tonight. I have to give Cromartie props for sticking with Moss the way he did.

One of the biggest benefactors of the Moss trade, looks to be Percy Harvin. Harvin made play after play when he was given the opportunity. Before Harvin's first TD Moss was flagged for pass interference, which ended up being the play of the drive. Had he not pulled Cromartie to the ground he would have picked favre of no problem. The Jets did a terrible job of clock management, and gave the vikings an opportunity to win, but ended up with a pick 6. Favre showed some magic, but stilled missed many open receivers, the most obvious when he missed harvin for an easy completion which would have put us close to field goal range or even a touchdown. Peterson rushed for a quite 88 yards with 22 receiving. I would be willing to bet the Vikings left over 100 yds on the field with all of the missed opportunities on offense. The Vikings defense did an outstanding job holding the Jets to 5 field goals, but still gave up 155 rushing yards. That is the first time in 51 straight games they have allowed over 150 yds in a game.

I feel bad for Cedric Griffin, a player who has fought back from a gruesome ACL tear, and left the game with an unfortunate knee injury. I wish him the best. With Cook out with his knee injury the Vikings are once again short at the CB position.  More on the injury front, Favre looked to be holding his right elbow, which was diagnosed with tendinitis.

Wolves-Vikings Blog: Moss and Wolves still hot :)

Wolves-Vikings Blog: Moss and Wolves still hot :): "So if you have been paying any attention to the Minnesota sports scene, you like me have most likely been overjoyed with the return of Randy..."

Moss and Wolves still hot :)

So if you have been paying any attention to the Minnesota sports scene, you like me have most likely been overjoyed with the return of Randy Moss. What does Moss bring to the Vikings? Moss brings that big receiver who can spread the field. He is what Favre has been missing with the absence of Sidney Rice. Moss will fill his void for the time being. From now until Rice comes back Berrian better step up his play if he wants to be apart of this team in the future. He had one of the more productive training camps of anybody on the vikings squad, but that has not translated to game success. I think once Rice gets back this offense if Favre can start to get back in his comfort zone could be one for the record books. Peterson should be able to rip off more big runs with the defense playing back to defend the deep threat, RANDY MOSS. For the time being ill leave it at that on this post, i will have more Vikings talk after the Monday night game vs the Jets.

As for the Wolves, all i can do is smile and hope that this success continues into the regular season. If you haven't been paying attention they went 2 and 0 while they were in Europe against the Lakers and the Knicks. So far what i have noticed is Beasley is becoming the face of the franchise, he has declared the Wolves, "the team to beat." Kevin Love has also said similar things on the BEASY Show. This team is looking more and more like a NBA with the size and length they have. The Wolves look to be making strides in the positive directions. The new additions Webster and Beasley have been among the leading scorers in the first two games. I expect big things from these young men. I would like to see either Brewer, Wes, or Ellington to stand out and really play a significant role on this team to go along with the core players we have in Beasley, Love, and Webster. I cant wait to see Jonny rejoin this team and bring his high energy.
Has anyone else been paying attention to the play of Rubio overseas? He has not stuck out quite like i was hoping in fact he wasn't even a factor when his team played the Lakers. This scares me, because i am a huge Flynn fan and think he could turn out to be a player like Billups. A player the wolves gave up on too early. I hope they don't dump Flynn and bring in Rubio if he doesn't improve. I know he is still very young so he should be a good player in this league right ? : I

Wolves off to Europe

The Timberwolves have been creating some of there own buzz in Minnesota lately with training camp getting under way, even with the success of the Twins and the popularity of the beloved Vikings. The wolves have opened camp and seem to be focusing much more on the defensive side of the ball. For those of you who remember last year we could make a stop to save our lives. This year they have pretty much had a complete transformation again throughout the off season. They seem to have more depth this year at each and every position. The Wolves have added size to every position also, which will help them on the defensive end off the floor. I personally cant wait to see the wolves push the ball and play an uptempo style of basketball like they have been preaching about.

Thoughts on new player- Michael Beasley has a tremendous upside and his personal character already seems to be good for the organization. He himself has declared the Twolves the team to beat in the NBA. Martell Webster brings some veteran leadership to the team and he can also spread the floor with his outside shooting ability. I cant wait for Jonny Flynn to get back from his offseason hip surgery, he brings energy to the floor night in and night out. I look forward to Wes Johnson hitting the open shot and being able to create his own opportunities off the the dribble.

This Timberwolves team is full of high draft picks with a a lot of potential, this should be a fun to to watch, if they can continue to grow together.