The Official 2007 Vikings Thread.

[>TC<]

No such luck ... "Sources are saying that Smith tested positive for marijuana. Smith was kicked out of the University of Tennessee in 2000 for a similar offense. That's why he finished his career at Oregon.

He will be eligable to play in the rest of the teams pre-season games but once the season starts he will be barred from participating in practice, or any other team functions for four weeks. He will also be banned from Winter Park.


TC

[Durango53]

Well at least Moe is there!!!!! I still dont know if there is a better back in the league that can pick up a blitz like Moe....

But i have been hearing good things about the other RB they drafted this year also what is the scoop on him now TC??? I think he just made the team and could cause Smith to get traded if he comes out and does good.

I still stand by what I think. Get caught using drugs you get kicked out of sports!!! No ifs ands or buts you are gone. Do that and drugs would leave.

[SacTown]

Ya know , the more I see Mr Bennet this year , the more I love that I drafted him in the 5th round . :clap:

He really does look like he's going to change peoples ideas about what he is and is not in this league .

Sucks that all the other things are cropping up , but you should be used to it by now ;-)

I totally agree about Moss this year . I think he'll be on alot of highlight reels . DBs beware .

-SacTown

[>TC<]

You're talking about Mewelde Moore(4th round). The Vikings have him figured for a kickoff returner, and eventually a third down specialist. He is one of only two NCAA Division I-A players to record at least 4000 yards rushing and 2000 yards receiving in his career.

"He's been a playmaker ever since he put on a Viking uniform," coach Mike Tice said. "He's smart. He's mature. We love everything about him. We've got to find a way to get him on the field."

Multi-Sport Guy - Moore was drafted in the 4th round of the 2000 free agent draft by the Padres and played three years of summer rookie level ball. He signed with them for a $250,000 bonus.


TC

[>TC<]

Bad News: Tyrone Carter was hurt in tonights game. He was carted off the field and the preliminary report says a "sprained" knee but the on the field reporters weren't smiling when they reported it could be a torn ligament

TC

[Durango53]

Thanks for the info TC.....

Heard a rumor I think I might like but I dont think it will come true.

Heard the Vikes were talking to the Raiders about trading O. Smith to them.... That was all I heard but I would like to think that Charles Woodson name would have to be in there also. To trade O.Smith and a mid draft pick for Woodson sign and trade deal would be a great move I fee for the Vikes and put them in the drivers seat!!!!

But that is just me wishing!!!! What have you been hearing about O. Smith TC

[>TC<]

There have been a lot of scouts watching the Vikings this per-season. No specifics. Ontario has to be on teams lists, though.

Hey, I finally saw some info on Adam Goldberg. I'll try to keep monitoring this. His chances of making the team go up if he can backup two spots.

Edina native Adam Goldberg, on the depth chart as the backup right tackle, will be given a chance to battle former Gophers lineman Adam Haayer for the backup right guard spot.

TC

[Durango53]

Great Thanks TC!!!

[>TC<]

Marcus Robinson has been ruled out for the rest of the exhibition season, because of his hamstring problems. Nate Burlson moves up to #2 and Kelly Campbell #3

TC

[Durango53]

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Minnesota coach Mike Tice hasn't decided whether enigmatic cornerback Derek Ross, claimed off waivers late Monday, is healthy or dedicated enough to help the Vikings' depleted secondary.

"We have (Ross)' rights," Tice said after Tuesday's morning practice, which Ross missed while taking a physical. "(But) I don't know if he'll ever see the field."

But Ross' own stability -- health and otherwise -- has caused three teams to release him in less than nine months, including two in the past week.

[Durango53]

Second-year linebacker Michael Nattiel will replace rookie Dontarrious Thomas on the weak side in the nickel package Friday, Tice said. Thomas will keep his starting job in the base defense. An MRI performed Monday on safety Willie Offord's sore left knee did not reveal any ligament damage. Offord practiced Tuesday morning. Fifth-round draft pick Rod Davis has overtaken Max Yates for the backup spot at middle linebacker, but the club may keep both players on the active roster, according to Tice. Center Cory Withrow will leave the team after Friday's game to attend to a family issue. He will miss Saturday's practice and return Monday morning.

[>TC<]

Ross is a gamble, but the lack of depth in the defensive backfield forced a move. Tice implied that Ross is far and away the most physically talented CB available but is taking a wait and see attitude as to whether he can play for the Vikings.


TC

[>TC<]

Both Bryant McKinnie and Michael Bennett went out with knee sprains last night. Ironically, they were both injured on the same play. The team and the players are saying the injuries are nothing serious, although Tice said they may have precautionary MRIs taken. Bennett was looking outstanding, with 91 yards on only 11 carries, before he left the game.

TC

[>TC<]

Bad news - Bennett has a secodn degree sprain of the MCL - he will miss about four weeks. They hope to have him back for the Chicago game.


TC

[Durango53]

That sucks balls on Bennett!!!! I heard this and was out of town, but I knew you was going to keep all the Viking fans informed TC....

This sucks. Smith out for joining the Ricky Williams pot smoking ring and so now they are down to there 3rd back. Which I think we all feel is ok for the Vikings but how will the guys behind Moe do?

What is the order after Moe TC. Is Ned still there. I know last year he was looking ok for the team in the pre season and then there is that guy they drafted this year that we talked about some.

The only thing they lose with Moe is that break away speed that will kill teams which Bennett has. But they pick up a better blocker in Moe that will stop any blitz coming to Culpepper... Lose some in one area but pick up in a other. The offense will be ok with Moe as we know from last year but who is behind Moe!?!?!?

[>TC<]

Mewelde Moore will be #2 while Bennett and Smith are out. He will be a real change of pace from Moe. He has really showed some moves during training camp and the pre-season games. He is also an excellent pass receiver. I really don't see this offense missing a beat with this knd of quality depth ready to step in.


TC

[Durango53]

Ya I am with you TC I just dont see it. Moe is a great great blocker in the back field maybe one of the best right now in the game. And he will get you the yards you have to have. A great hardnosed guy that you need in the back field.

That is great news on Moore also. I am all for trading Smith now to the Fins so they can replace one dope head with another!!!! And I am sure they could trade him for a second round pick next year!!!

[Durango53]

Also I just read on ESPN that Bennett is a ? mark for being ready for opening day. They are saying out 1 to 3 weeks. Tice said he was iffy for the opener.

I guess I would be for sitting him week one and using him after that if he is good to go. Just because Moe is still a great fit for this team....

What kind of speed does Moore have also? I just dont know nothing about this kid. I am sure he is faster than Moe.

[Durango53]

Unhappy with the performance of incumbent Aaron Elling through three preseason games, Minnesota coach Mike Tice might seek a familiar solution to the Vikings' place-kicking woes: trying to lure NFL all-time leading scorer Gary Anderson out of retirement.

"It's obvious to all of us we can't keep going down this vein," Tice acknowledged after Friday night's 23-10 victory over San Francisco, a game in which Elling missed a pair of field-goal attempts and an extra-point try.

This is so funny!!! Keep going back to the same old well!!!! It might be time to burn a mid range draft pick on a kicker huh guys?!?!?!

[>TC<]

Moore has great quickness and good speed. You'll be impressed when you see him.

You're got the last name correct but the first name will surprise you. There are strong rumors that the Vikings are going to go hard after Morten Anderson, who looks like he could be available. It would probably be a swap of players who each team would be cutting.

There is virtually no chance that the Vikes will bring in Gary Anderson. If they do that they have to sign another K to handle kick-offs and Tice has said that he won't use a roster spot for that.

TC

[Durango53]

Ya I saw that Morten was on the list also. But I did hear last night on the radio (national talk show) that they was talking about Gary and bring in a guy to do the kick offs. So that is where I heard that. I started to laugh about it.

That is great news on Moore then. I am even more sold on the idea that is mine I dont know who else shares that but to trade Smith. You could get more than he is worth right now from the Fins also. But I am looking forward to seeing the Vikings play on TV!!!!
I got the Football package renewed so I got all the Vikes games again this year so game one is when I will get my first taste this year of seeing them live!!!

What is your take so far on the Defense (LB's mostly) seeing them in pre-season. I know its only pre-season but you can always get a feel for a team I feel. :) But how is the D-Line looking and Hovan with the LB core and the D-Backs. Think Russell will have a year like last year?

Oh ya I havnt heard a thing about Brock Lesnar for the past two weeks. What is he looking like. I see they have the Lesnar jeresy for sale now. Does that mean he made the team? I just havnt heard a thing about him. Anymore fights in the games :)

[LesPaul]

bennet out with the 2nd degree MCL, ouch. i had a third degree sprain back in HS, too bad i couldnt run as fast as him :D

[duckboy]

I bet Onterrio is glad he toked up now. :PPsmilie:

:loser:

[>TC<]

Okay - the LB corp is going to be young and very fast. They will make some mistakes but they'll have playmakers on the field at all times. You won't recognize this group compared to last year. These guys will make some spectacular plays, but on the downside they are going to make some mistakes, too. The thought is that the speed factor will minimize the damage.

Brock progressed further than anyone in the organization ever thought he would, but has hit a wall in his developement. Look for him to be cut before the season. I don't know if they will use a practice squad slot on him or not. Even if they don't, there is a lot of talk about signing him to a deal after the season, so he can go to NFL Europe next spring and get some playing time.

This DL is going to be a big improvement over the 2003 model. Uze at pass rush end and Williams at tackle will give a big push to the line. Hovan seems to have regained some of his quickness but still needs to show people he's back. They are keeping 7 DL to rotate in, so the group stays fresh. A couple of the players they will be cutting are drawing some inquires from other teams. When is the last time anyone was interested in any defensive lineman the Vikes cut?

TC

[Durango53]

I just heard that Brock was cut today. So that will be good if he can get it going with them again next year...

[Durango53]

I think you are right TC. All be it the LB core is young they will make up for some mistakes with there speed which is something this team hasnt have for a long time. It will be fun to watch them run this year....

[Durango53]

You could hear it in his voice and in the way he avoided mentioning Onterrio Smith by name. Minnesota Vikings coach Mike Tice is angry with the second-year running back for failing a drug test and drawing a four-game suspension. Tice's anger quotient increased over the weekend when he learned that starting back Michael Bennett will miss the opener with a sore knee.

"If (No.) 32 didn't get himself a vacation, we wouldn't have any concern," Tice said. "We'd let Mike just take his time getting ready. Now with 32 having a vacation, we'll try to push Mike to get back as soon as he can get back. Hopefully, it's the second game against Philly."

If Smith could control his urges, he would be starting the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. Instead, he won't be allowed anywhere near the Vikings' Winter Park facility.

[Durango53]

And so, after wavering since the weekend about the team's kicking situation, Tice finally made a switch, releasing Elling on Tuesday night and signing veteran free-agent kicker Brett Conway to a two-year contract. The roster moves became official Wednesday.

[>TC<]

Ontario Smith will be allowed to play in the opener against Dallas. The appeall he filed won't be ruled on this week, therefore he will be in the backfield for the Vikes in game 1. Odds are he will still get his four game suspension but the timing will be better with Bennett due back for gmae 2 or 3.


TC

[Durango53]

Good for the Vikings on this ruling. But I dont like this as a fan of sports.

Have you heard TC what he did or used? I will take everything back if he took some cough syrpe or something but if he did anything that he lawfully cant do then I dont think he should play. But I think any player should be dropped for life from pro sports. But that is just me and how I feel.

But this will help the Vikings out a ton for running. I would think that Moe would still start but his carries would be cut a ton. What have you heard on all this TC. What did he use or do? Who starts as RB? Any news on Bennett? How about Mt. McKenny?

I have been working a ton here so I havnt got to hear or read any news at all...

[>TC<]

First of all, McKinney is supposed to be fine for the opener. Tice said there is an outside chance Bennett will be available for Philly. Moe may still be named the starter, but it will only be to start the game. Ontario will get the majority of the carries.

As far as his substance of choice, the word on the street is that it was a positve test for his old friend, marjuana

TC

[Durango53]

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. –- Running back Onterrio Smith could play up to three games before the NFL rules on his appeal of his four-game suspension, a source close to the situation said Saturday.

Smith, who faces a four-game ban for violating the league’s substance-abuse policy, practiced with the team Saturday. If suspended for the start of the season, his exile would begin Monday, but that appears unlikely since the league hasn’t ruled on his appeal.

[Durango53]

Carter, who was a 2000 draft pick of the Vikings, was a former Minnesota Gophers All-American who broke the Division I-A record for tackles by a defensive back.

He played three years in Minnesota and spent last season with the New York Jets, where he started the final 10 games. Carter re-signed with the Vikings after being cut by the Jets in March.

Other players sent packing were long snapper Brody Liddiard; wide receivers Ben Nelson, Ryan Hoag and Lane Danielsen; cornerback Derek Ross; running back Butchie Wallace; safety Oliver Celestin; cornerback Horace Willis; cornerback Jermaine Mays; center Billy Conaty; and guard Anthony Herrera.

[Durango53]

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) - Morten Andersen, the second-leading scorer in NFL history, signed with the Minnesota Vikings on Tuesday, two days after being cut by Kansas City.
The Vikings released Brett Conway, who lasted just a week as the replacement for Aaron Elling. The Vikings cut Elling, a second-year player, after he struggled in the preseason.

[Durango53]

Dallas Cowboys at Minnesota Vikings: Bill Parcells and the Jets … oops. Just got a little confused. When you see Parcells go into a road game with Vinny Testaverde, Richie Anderson, Keyshawn Johnson and Dedric Ward, it's only natural to assume this is an AFC game involving the Jets. It isn't. These are the new Cowboys even though they are the old Jets. Parcells' old warriors open against one of the most exciting young defenses in football. Mike Tice stressed speed and pass rush during the offseason. His defensive unit is faster with E.J. Henderson developing at middle linebacker and Dontarrious Thomas developing quickly at outside linebacker. Antoine Winfield gives the Vikings a legitimate top cornerback. The defensive line is one of the best young units in the game. Testaverde looked good during the preseason. He completed 65.5 percent of his passes and had a solid 7.55-yard per gain average. He had a 240-yard half against the Titans. But that was against no pass rush and few blitzes. The Vikings have the best chance to show where the Cowboys offense is after all of these dramatic changes. It will be interesting to see how Parcells uses his running backs. Eddie George saw very little action during the preseason. Will he get the 18 carries to get started or will Parcells slip in some plays to Anderson and use more of rookie Julius Jones? The Cowboys defense has to worry about Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper, who averaged an incredible 10.59 yards per attempt during the preseason and had a 134.4 quarterback rating.

[Durango53]

Sep. 07
Signed wide receivers Ryan Hoag and Ben Nelson, running back Butchie Wallace, defensive back Oliver Celestin and guard Anthony Herrera to the practice squad; signed defensive back Omare Lowe, released defensive back Deandre Eiland.

[Durango53]

73 Adam Goldberg OG 24 6-7 310 Wyoming

HE MADE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GO ADAM!!!! BE A COWBOY THAT STAYS ON THE VIKINGS TEAM!!!!!!

[>TC<]

Parcells cracks me up. In a news conference today, he said you have to respect the Vikings offense because they have solid, veteran players like Moe Williams. Then he added, as an after-thought, that you almost have to include Culpepper and Moss in that category, because they've been around for a while now and have proved themselves to be capable.

Nice of him to notice

TC

[Durango53]

That is funny. Bill is a great coach but there is a time you have to put some young players in there and let them do there thing. I dont think he will have to respect Moe to much I think he better put more respect on O. Smith. Sure I hope that Bill game plans for Moe and lets the rest do there thing, but we all know that Bill wont do that. I think that will just fire up these boys to light up the old KBoys.

[>TC<]

As far as Goldberg making the team, Tice said that he and Hayer were so impressive on camp, that for the first time, he is keeping nine offensive linemen.

TC

[Durango53]

That is cool to hear TC.

Goldberg was hurt most of his JR year so he got the label as injury guy. And then he had a great SR year but got a label for being to nice. But I was stoked when he signed with the Vikings and now I am excited that he is going to be on the field this year!!! If Dixion does quit this year I hope he gets his spot but being a weak point for the Vikings the past few years it is now again there strongest point!!!!

[Durango53]

Mike Tice Quote
We listed Michael Bennett as out and Marcus (Robinson) as questionable. They seem to be the only injuries we have with any concern. Marcus' leg is a little sore, so we'll see how he fares in the next two days to how much work he'll get in the game. Other than that we're a pretty healthy team based on four preseason games and five scrimmages or so, padded practices under the lights, whatever you want to call them.

[Durango53]

Hey TC what is the local buzz on Marcus Robinson? Everything I have heard so far is he is a ? mark.

[Durango53]

26 seconds to half time and the Vikings are looking great!!!!!!!!!!!

I got a little scared when they had to cart Irwin off durning warm ups and the first couple of drives by the Cowboys. But the defense stepped up and stopped the Cowboys at the goal line and the LBs look a bit out of place at times but there speed is great!!! What to get around and make some great plays!!! Henderson is playing great for MLB so far a great upgrade from what we had.

You was also right TC for Moore. He looks freaking great for the one carry and one catch he had. Speed and moves I am even more for trading Smith!!!

Culpepper is looking outstanding!!!! When it isnt there he is off and running. Great passes and getting the ball down field.

And just for you lurkers and such I would like to point out this. Who is leading the down field blocking?????? Can you say Moss. Yes he did it some last year but he is knocking or trying to knock some guys on there butt......

But the CB's are very weak now. They will need to get someone signed it looks like....

[>TC<]

Moe Williams and Jim Kleinsasser both left the game with injuries. Neither returned. Kleinsasser had an ice pack on the side of his knee on the sideline. From what little I heard, Moe had an ankle injury. Hoperully neither of these are serious.

TC

[Nanner]

Ooh. :( I hope they'll be up and around soon, TC.

Yup. As you guys can see, the Prodigal Daughter has returned. I have serious doubts that my Orioles are going to get back to .500 by the end of the season. I have the same doubts about the Mets. And I've already got my hat ready for cheering on the Twins in the World Series. :D :cheer:

It's time for me to come back to football and root for my Vikes. :cheer: (Although the avatar will have to stay until the end of baseball season. :D

So, anyhoo........ NICE WIN TODAY!!!!!

:jump: :cheer:

I gotta go read a recap now. :bolt:

:wave1:

[Durango53]

It was a solid game I feel for the Vikings.

What is the news on Irwin TC???

I dont think Jimmy and Moe looked like they would miss much time.

How about the man in the middle!!!!!!!! I dont know the last time I saw a game from a LB that Henderson had!!! The man was all over the place making plays!!! That was freaking great to see.

I dont think they let the Cowboys get 10 yards all game with the RB's running to the outside!!! Those guys shut down the outside running game with a outstanding no way!!!

But I am really worried about the backfield on defense. They are mighty thin now and something is going to have to happen there.

Also hats off the the de line. Those guys was beasts. They was all over and Williams looked like he is going to pick right up where he left off.

Great game for the WR!!!! Pick your poison now!!!! Who do you want to beat you? Culpepper running the Running backs or the other WR (WHAT A CATCH BY KELLY!!!!!!!) or good old Randy Moss. He was down field blocking and was about in every play!!!! And even though he threw a lame duck it got to where it had to go!!!!!

I have been kind of out of it all day today being I have been running all weekend. And I do mean running. So I am on fumes right now but TC was it me or did the Vikings Defense not blitz that much. I just dont remember them doing it to much and when they did the Cowboys picked it up great?

Also Nanner welcome home!!!! I got the Twins and Vikings cap on also!!!!

Nanner Monday night is the game of the week I feel!!!! Vikings vs the team that picked up the guy the Vikings sent into a fit!!!! The Vikings vs T.O.'s Eagles!!!! I think the Vikings have to double or triple team T.O. let the Lb's take out the outside running game let the d-line shut down the inside run and let the other WR beat them which they cant beat a egg.

Well goodnight all and I will be busy all day tomorrow so no K-Fan for me to here what is up... :(

Let us know TC what is going on tomorrow with all the hurts!!!!!

VIKINGS WIN!!!!!!!!!!

[rockin500]

that was a pretty good game for you guys this afternoon. dante sure was on his game.

[Nanner]

I love this picture. I think it'll have to be part of my avatar. :D

http://www.startribune.com/stonline/images/news89/SPvike0912d.l.jpgVikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper (left) and receiver Randy Moss relax on the sidelines late in the team's 23-6 win over Arizona in NFL preseason action at the Metrodome on August 14.

Jim Gehrz
Star Tribune
Published September 12, 2004
© Copyright 2004 Star Tribune. All rights reserved.

[PopTop]

So, anyhoo........ NICE WIN TODAY!!!!!

Way to go Vikings! Way to whip those Dallas Cowpies!


:smokin:

[Durango53]

It seems that Randy has a mission vs the Cowboys everytime they play!!!!

My player of the game is Henderson!!!

[LesPaul]

awesome game! so good to see the O rolling like that again, Culpepper was on top of his game. It shows already he is mellowed out with the 2nd receiver spot well taken care of. Kelly's catch was amazing! I saw the stat that last year Moss had like 111 receptions and the closest one was 22. Again for any lurkers, Moss has been stepping up, don't have to look much farther than that stat to see how much he had to carry for the team. The TD before half that the D gave up scares me, it seems to be an old habit coming back, letting up the soft TD's when the clock is winding down.

[LesPaul]

Way to go Vikings! Way to whip those Dallas Cowpies!


:smokin:

:D and Me-Shawn!

Next up: Mr Sharpie!

[Durango53]

Remeber the team that sent T.O. into the fit that ended his time with the Niners?????


Lets do it again Vikings!!!!!!!!!!!! You have most of the nation cheering for you this week!!! AND ON MONDAY MIGHT FOOTBALL!!!!

[Durango53]

Something else I have seen about this team this week.

Randy Moss was at the edge of the side line it seemed the whole game.The whole team seemed to stand behind and push the hole team. Loved to see that.

Also how about the new art work mid-field?

[LesPaul]

Something else I have seen about this team this week.

Randy Moss was at the edge of the side line it seemed the whole game.The whole team seemed to stand behind and push the hole team. Loved to see that.

Also how about the new art work mid-field?

I liked the new art work, both midfield and in the endzone, it gives that ominous feeling that you are in the Vikings house with the old english style/gothic like lettering.

I am pumped too about the atmosphere around the team, reminds me of the better days returned :cool:

[>TC<]

Kleinsasser's injury recovery is going to be messured in weeks, not days. It's kind of odd that they are saying he has an injury to the ACL but have not given any kind of description of the specific injury.

Moe is in a "boot" for his ankle injury. He is doubtful for the Eagles game.

They had two cornerbacks in for tryouts today. Terrance Shaw, cut by Carolina on September 5, and Ralph Brown, released August 31 by Washington. Word is the Vikes are higher on Shaw, who started 87 of 125 career games in which he has played. When Tice was asked whether he'd consider bringing back Eric Kelly, the former Viking who was cut by the Bears. His response was that he wouldn't consider it, he "burned his bridges here."

I expect some double-teaming on TO but basically I look for Winfield to matchup with him on most plays. If he goes up against Williams, look for Brian to look for every opportunity to deliver a big hit on Owens.

TC

[Durango53]

Brian sure did some huge hits on old Me-shawn didnt he!!!!

I think we will see double teaming on T.O. most of the time, if Irwin is going to play.

What is the word on him?

[Durango53]

Fowler on bid: 'We're serious'
Arizona businessman Reggie Fowler, in town for the Vikings' season opener against Dallas, said he expects to make a formal offer for the team "in the next few weeks." Fowler spoke to reporters Sunday for the first time since his name emerged as a potential buyer this summer, and appeared with Twin Cities auto dealer Denny Hecker, a potential partner in a deal. "We wouldn't be doing this if we didn't think we had a chance," Fowler said. "We wouldn't impact our credibility or Mr. Hecker's credibility. ... We're not just burning calories here. We're serious." Fowler, who is black, would be the NFL's first minority owner.

[Durango53]

Tice also ruled out starting running back Michael Bennett for Monday night's game against Philadelphia. Bennett sprained his right knee during the preseason and could be ready in time for Minnesota's Week 3 matchup against Chicago.

[Durango53]

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Vikings tight end Jim Kleinsasser will miss the next two weeks after an MRI revealed his right knee injury was worse than originally thought.

The team thought Kleinsasser, who was hurt in Sunday's season opener against Dallas, hyperextended his knee. But an MRI on Monday revealed damage to his anterior cruciate ligament

[Durango53]

Other than cornerback Ken Irvin, who ruptured his right Achilles' tendon during warmups Sunday and probably is done for the season, Minnesota didn't sustain many injuries.

OH NO!!!!!!!!!!!! :no: :no: :no:

Man oh man this sucks!!!!!

[Durango53]

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Michael Bennett's knee is feeling better after a workout, but Minnesota coach Mike Tice probably will sit his starting running back again when the Vikings play at Sept. 20 in Philadelphia.

Bennett, who sprained his right knee in the preseason, said after Sunday's win over Dallas that he hoped to play against the Eagles. On Monday, Tice said Bennett is progressing quickly, but he has enough confidence in his backfield depth to hold him out at least another week.

"We'll wait until Mike feels almost perfect," Tice said.

Backup Onterrio Smith, appealing a four-game substance-abuse suspension, rushed for 76 yards and caught a 63-yard TD pass against the Cowboys. Tice also has rookie Mewelde Moore and Larry Ned in the backfield.

Moe Williams, who started in Bennett's place, will be closely monitored this week after spraining his ankle in the opener. Tice doesn't expect Williams to practice Thursday, "but we'll see how that goes. He's a tough guy."

[Durango53]

Smith had a great game vs the Cowboys also. It was great to see him get to the outside when those holes got filled up and he had to make it up as he goes!!!!

But it looks like we will get to see more of Moore now and some of Ned maybe also!!!

Nice to lose the top two RB's on your team and still run out guys that are going to be just as tough!!!!

Just to bad that Smith is a loser!!! I hope he can get is life together. Maybe Moss can lay the law down and get in his head (DID I SAY THAT!!!!)

[Durango53]

Moss has gained a reputation as one of Minnesota's leaders, and his popularity among the players and fans remains strong.

"He's definitely poised to have his best year for the simple fact that he's fully focused," quarterback Daunte Culpepper said recently.

Over the years, opposing defenses have tried to limit Moss' big catches. It's worked to an extent -- Moss has seen a lot more short-yardage passes over the past two seasons and is usually tackled quickly. But he's finding other ways to beat his opponents.

Consider his performance Sunday against the Cowboys.

Moss had only 27 yards on four catches and still made a big impact. He made key blocks downfield and drew two pass interference penalties. The first one set up the first of his two touchdown receptions, a 3- yarder. He also caught a 1-yard scoring pass.

"Being a wide receiver, and me being as fast as I am, I would've liked it to have been a 60, 70-yarder," Moss said. "But I guess I have to take the touchdowns how they're given to me."

Moss also threw a reverse pass for 37 yards to Marcus Robinson, although it was a wobbly throw.

"I don't think he was ready to put a spiral on that one," Culpepper joked. "But it got there."

I love this new Moss. This is a guy is starting to grow up it looks like and he is going to love how he is treated if he keeps going down the path he is. If he keeps this up he could rewrite the record books!!!

[Durango53]

CB Ken Irvin ruptured his right Achilles' tendon during warmups before Sunday's opener against Dallas and will probably need season-ending surgery. Irvin, who was taken off the field on a cart, was supposed to start at right cornerback in place of Brian Williams. Williams is still recovering from a sprained left knee suffered in the preseason opener. But Williams wound up starting, with Antoine Winfield playing left cornerback. Irvin, a 10-year veteran, started nine games for Minnesota last season. Coach Mike Tice said he is likely done for the year.

[Durango53]

Sep. 11
Signed tackle Mike Rosenthal to a six-year contract extension. :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

GREAT MOVE VIKINGS!!!!!!!!!!! This is one of the best lines I have seen and this is a line that you can ride a long way. A very long way!!!! Now if the rest of the team dont quit working this line will take the Vikings as far as they want to go!!!

[Durango53]

The Minnesota Vikings announce the signing of two NFL veteran defensive backs. Ralph Brown played in 11 games (started 7) in 2003 for the New York Giants and spent the 2004 preseason with the Washington Redskins. He was originally a 5th round draft choice by the Giants in 2000. Terrance Shaw played in 16 games (started 8) in 2003 for the Oakland Raiders and spent the 2004 preseason with Carolina. He was originally a 2nd-round draft choice by the San Diego Chargers in 1995.

SIGNED
#33 Ralph Brown DB 5th Year Nebraska
#25 Terrance Shaw DB 10th Year Stephen F. Austin

RELEASED
#25 Omare Lowe S 3rd Year Washington

INJURED RESERVE
#22 Ken Irvin DB 10th Year Memphis

PRACTICE SQUAD (RELEASED)
#35 Oliver Celestin S 1st Year Texas Southern

[Durango53]

Daunte's on fire
In the ESPN.com predictions posted last week, we prognosticated that Minnesota wide receiver Randy Moss would be the NFL's offensive player of the year. One week into the season, we're wondering whether we're in the right church but perhaps in the wrong pew. The superb performance of Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper -- five touchdown passes in just 23 attempts -- may have signaled that the five-year veteran has elevated his game to a much higher level.


Minnesota players had suggested to us in the offseason that the strong-armed quarterback had matured a great deal. And on Sunday, from what some of the Minnesota players and coaches said, Culpepper was terrific in both the physical and mental side of the game. Teammates noted that Culpepper handled the huddle with calm and aplomb, audibled well, and got the team into formations and plays that worked well.


And speaking of maturity, Moss showed that he doesn't have to catch 8-10 balls to be really effective. His two touchdowns came on just four receptions. In fact, each of the Cowboys' top three wideouts had more catches and yards than Moss -- with Antonio Bryant, Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn combining for 22 catches and 307 yards -- and it mattered little in the outcome.

[Durango53]

P Travis Dorsch probably will be signed off of the practice squad to kick off Monday. The Vikings were not happy with the lack of hang time on 44-year-old place-kicker Morten Andersen's kickoffs. Andersen hadn't kicked off in two seasons.

[Durango53]

WR Randy Moss was asked to compare himself to Terrell Owens, whom the Vikings will face Monday night in Philadelphia. "Every wide receiver out there plays different," Moss said. "You can go to T.O., Marvin Harrison ... you can go through all these high-profile receivers, but nobody sees the coverages that I see. The comparison between the two of us next week - there is no comparison."

[Durango53]

WR Kelly Campbell was penalized 15 yards for excessive celebration following his 43-yard touchdown reception. Tice screamed at him on the sideline. "I learned the lesson only to the point where I don't need Coach Tice fussing at me anymore," Campbell said. "We're going to have fun. Sometimes we slip."

[Durango53]

Tight end Jermaine Wiggins will serve as the main replacement for injured Jimmy Kleinsasser, who is expected to miss at least a month of action, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Jeff Dugan will fill in in blocking situations.

[Durango53]

Vikings officials have spoken with the agent for kicker Aaron Elling about re-signing his client to handle kickoffs Monday night against Philadelphia.

Elling was "on the verge of agreeing to a deal" with the Vikings late Tuesday, according to a report in The Tennessean, a Nashville newspaper.

[Durango53]

I think my Viking thread is scaring people out of the Football forum!!!!! :(

[>TC<]

The two CB they brought in for tryouts were signed and will see action on Monday night. Irwin was put on the IR and is done for the year.

TC

[Durango53]

Daunte Culpepper was named the NFC's Offensive Player of the Week on Sept. 15 for his five-touchdown, no-turnover performance in the Vikings' win over the Cowboys.

[>TC<]

Brock Lesner was a guest of Mike Morris, on KFAN radio the other day and Mike Tice called in and told Brock that by the end of the year, he'd try to clear space on the practice squad for him and that he should stay in shape. Brock left the station totally keyed up.

TC

[Durango53]

That sounds great!!!!!!!!!

It sounds like they really like Brock and dont want to lose him. That sounds great....

[>TC<]

Tice is going to have a new kickoff man in place by Monday night. They were not happy with the hang time on Morton Anderson's kickoffs in game one. Special teams coach, Rusty Tillman, said that with the short hang time, the kickoff team would have to be perfect on every one to avoid a long return. Tice didn't like the sound of that so they brought in ...... former Viking Aaron Elling(who was released by Tennesee after week one in favor of another former Viking, Gary Anderson). Practice squad punter, Travis Dorsch, is being looked at as well, but his kickoffs during practice this week were inconsistant. It looks like Rhett Nelson CB would be cut to make room on the roster.


TC

[Durango53]

Russell (nine) and teammate Corey Chavous (eight) were the most productive duo in terms of interceptions last season. They'll be patrolling the field Monday as Terrell Owens tries to get loose.

[Durango53]

Transactions
9/04 Aaron Elling (K) signed
9/04 Rhett Nelson (CB) cut
9/04 Ben Steele (TE) Activated from the Practice Squad
9/04 Ralph Brown (CB) signed
9/04 Ken Irvin (CB) Placed on IR to a Achilles

[Durango53]

I cant wait to see the match up of the O line VS the D line of the Eagles. Everyone is so up on the D line of the Eagles but I dont think they are ready for a line like they are going to meet this week. Do you think they move Jevon Kearse so he dont have to play vs Mt. McKinnie to the other end against Rosenthal who had some problems vs the speed rush last year but is still one of the best out there? :notme: And we know what happens when you blitz the Vikings!!! Smith aint the best blocker to pick that up and Moe who is the best blocker in the league for a RB to pick up a blitz aint in there but we saw Smith take it to the house on a blitz easy last week or you have to leave Moss in single covrage!!! :banana: Culpepper is looking great in what he does. He is running when he needs to and is putting the right touch on passes too. :thumbsup:

Also lets not forget that the Eagles secondary is just starting there first year out there. They are some young guys just getting to know what they are doing so can Mr. Monday night who LOVES the big shows play like he has in the past and torch some bird? :naughty:

Also there is news that Jimmy Kleinsasser might get some surgery done that will KO him for the whole season!!!! :no: That is to bad because I think he would have showen that he is one of the best all around TE playing something that us Viking fans know but to the whole football watching world.:banghead:

We will see just how good now Wiggins is who they signed to be a TE that was to fill a pass catching role. Who has kind of ticked off coachs because of his "cavalier attiude toward recovery and practice"

I dont know I could be wrong but I feel this is a tough nut offense that will play hard and hit hard with the likes of Moe Williams who is out this week and will punch you in the nose with that line but while they are punching the rest can look like they are dancing a nice smooth dance. I think of Brain Williams can get heathly soon and stay that way and the Nickle CB steps up when need be this could be a happy year for Viking fans. But I think it all comes down to how good that D-line can play and what kind of job they do. Hovan cant use the excuse he is getting double teamed all the time now and he is going to have to step up his game big time. :thumbsup:

[Durango53]

Ok enough waiting around!!!! It is time to get the Viking thread up top again!!!!

I dont know the last time I have been this excited for a game than I am for tonights game!!!!


Ok maybe last week!!!

[Durango53]

The Eagles play a lot of blitz packages, which fit right into what Moss and Culpepper like to see. If a team blitzes Culpepper, Moss is more than likely running downfield in single coverage. Culpepper has the size and athletic ability to escape the rush by sheer speed and physicality, which will put pressure on the Eagles. Once he's escaped the rush he has the arm to get the ball to Moss and create big plays. I expect Moss and Culpepper to be able to have success against the Eagles tonight.

From ESPN Eric Allen

[Durango53]

DT Chris Hovan has irked coaches with lapses in technique, which mostly are caused by him playing out of control. At times, Hovan tries too hard to make plays and gets out of position. His tendency to turn his shoulders sideways relative to the line of scrimmage also makes it easier for a lineman to block him.

[Durango53]

VIKINGS FACTS AND FIGURES
• Oldest Vikings player Morten Andersen, 44 Born 8/19/60
• Youngest Vikings player Nat Dorsey, 21 Born 9/9/83
• Most seasons as a Viking David Dixon 11th Vikings season
• Most NFL seasons David Dixon 11th season in the NFL
• College with the most Vikings Maryland, 3 Henderson, Hill, Dugan
• Real Minnesota Vikings 3 players from MN high schools: Birk, Goldberg, Haayer
• Conference with the most Vikings SEC 11 players on '04 roster
• Largest Viking Bryant McKinnie, T Stands 6-8 and weighs 346 pounds
• Smallest Viking Keenan Howry Stands 5-10 and weighs 172 pounds
• Vikings w/NFL Europe experience 3 Darren Bennett, Shaun Hill, Marcus Robinson
• Former 1st-round draft picks 9 Michael Bennett, Chris Claiborne, Daunte Culpepper, Chris Hovan, Bryant McKinnie, Randy Moss, Kenechi Udeze, Kevin Williams, Antoine Winfield

[Durango53]

Tice: Very, very lively and focused day for the guys. They know the huge challenge that lies ahead of them on Monday, and they certainly have in two days watched enough film of this Philadelphia Eagles football team to know that this is going to be a monumental task to go into Philly Monday night and stay in the gym with this team. They're very focused, and (we had) a good tempo out there today. We got a lot covered. I'm enjoying the game plans that the coordinators and the staff have put in. We were very sharp on special teams today, so we need to continue that with a good meeting here now to watch the practice tape and then have another good lively day tomorrow. Injury-wise we looked pretty good. Mike (Bennett) is feeling really good. Jimmy (Kleinsasser) feels a little better today; Moe (Williams) feels a little better today. It's unlikely that Moe's going to play. I think we'll just plan to hold him out until next week and just move forward with the rest of the gang. Rushen Jones seems like his pride and his ribs have healed up pretty well, so we're a pretty healthy team. We're looking forward to another great day of work tomorrow and some good mental preparation from then on out

[Durango53]

PHIL SIMMS

"It took me one second to come up with the answer: Daunte Culpepper and Randy Moss. I've said it on TV and will continue to say it: Culpepper is one of the great hidden gems in the NFL. I don't know why people can't recognize it. His talent is just so overwhelming. One of the reasons Moss has such great success is because he's got one of the best arms throwing it to him and one of the few quarterbacks in the NFL who can just launch it out there farther than most defensive backs are used to seeing the football go, and have Moss just run under it. I really believe that's one of their greatest assets. Moss is faster than most people realize and Culpepper can throw it higher and farther than just about anybody in the league."

[>TC<]

Son of a gun!

I had forgotten they were playing tonight .... ;)

TC

[Durango53]

YOU FORGOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Durango53]

P Darren Bennett's poor preseason was followed closely by a bad season-opener. The former Pro Bowler who was signed away from San Diego in free agency is starting to look like the 39-year-old that he is. He averaged 34.0 yards on three punts against the Cowboys. Tice said maybe it's the Vikings' high-powered offense that's to blame. "I think Darren is used to punting more," Tice said. "He needs to teach himself to stay loose and be ready even if he isn't punting a lot."

[Durango53]

WR Randy Moss loves prime time on ABC. He has 41 catches for 872 yards (21.2-yard average) and 10 touchdowns in eight games. QB Daunte Culpepper hasn't been as explosive in three MNF games. He completed 63.7 percent of his passes (58 of 91), but has thrown six interceptions and eight touchdown passes

[Durango53]

The Vikings-Dallas television broadcast had a 34.2 rating and 62 share in the Twin Cities. That was the highest local market rating for any game carried by Fox on Sunday.

[Durango53]

The Vikings have the luxury of resting a former Pro Bowl running back named Michael Bennett. Bennett has begun running, but the right knee he sprained in the third preseason game is at about 70 percent. "Coach Tice said to take my time," Bennett said. "We still have Onterrio Smith, Mewelde Moore, Larry Ned, Moe Williams." Actually, the Vikings probably will be without Williams (sprained ankle) this week.

The Vikings are banged up at running back, but they're still in good shape as long as the NFL keeps dragging its feet on Onterrio Smith's appeal of a four-game drug suspension. Smith was expected to miss the first four games, but so far there's been no ruling. Smith had a game-high 76 yards rushing and caught a 63-yard touchdown pass in the win over the Cowboys. He will play Monday against the Eagles. Smith failed a test for marijuana, the same drug that got him kicked out of Tennessee his freshman year. Smith vowed after the Dallas game that, "this will never happen again. I have learned my lesson."

[Durango53]

Moss has played the Eagles once. He caught seven passes for 95 yards and a touchdown. Culpepper was 21 of 35 for 285 yards, two TDs and an interception in his only game against Philadelphia.

[Nanner]

Son of a gun!

I had forgotten they were playing tonight .... ;)

TC

Yeah, RIGHT! Like I really believe that! :D

I'm so excited I can't stand it!!! :jump:

This should be a good game! :cheer: :cheer:

[LesPaul]

i will most of the game to go curling :notme:

[Durango53]

ITS ABOUT TO START!!! I am already drinking so I can stand which ever way it falls!!!! Lets get wild Nancy!!!!!!

[Durango53]

:banghead: :banghead: :banghead:

WHAT THE HELL IS UP!!!!!!

WHY THE HELL AINT THE VIKINGS PLAYING THERE GAME!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes you got to play the short game to take what they give you but you have the best jumper in the league and not giving him a chance!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Let it rip a few and this is what started to kill this team last year!!!!!!!!!!! Take your shots go for the KO!!!!!!!!!!!! COME ON THIS IS PISSING ME OFF!!!!! I DONT WANT A REPLAY OF LAST YEAR!!!!

Use Kelly Cambell down the field on the other side of Moss!!!!!!!! Tice I love you man but LET IT RIP!!!!!!!! These guys cant hang with you so dont let them!!!!!!!!!

[rockin500]

well, if daunte hadnt fumbled the ball, they woulda been up!

[Durango53]

This is sick!!!!!! The strongest part of this team is playing just awful!!!!! The O-line is letting everything in!!! This reminds me of two years ago when Culpepper got the ball and had to run for his life. And the Eagles aint even blitzing....

[Nanner]

THIS IS DRIVING ME CRAZY!!! :banghead :banghead :Pissed:

They get downfield. They're at the goal-line...... and THEY CAN'T MAKE IT HAPPEN!!!

Crap. :Pissed:

And what's with all the fumbles. :angry:

I went and got ice cream. :(

[Durango53]

This O-line is playing like the High school JV...

Culpepper dont have time to even look 10 yards down field.

Tice needs to learn when to throw that red flag. Hell he threw it twice when he couldnt and then when he could he holds on to it. Blowing though there timeouts and special teams looking more like special ed!!!!

The better disiplined team won tonight. This is the team we saw the last year after the Vikings won the 6 in a row and then took a huge dump in there pants....

[LesPaul]

lol, my girlfriend told me to quit watching as soon as the Vikings were behind so I quit after they went down 3-7 and went curling. Glad I did, I cannot stand to see the Vikings waste their explosive talent. just reading the posts makes me semi angry

[Durango53]

I think we also saw last night how much Moe Williams means to this team.... On how he can pick up the blitz.

[>TC<]

They played a Bad game - and they still would have been in it if not for the bad call on Owens TD. Culpepper lost his composure on the goal line. He tried to do it all himself and it cost the team. You have to give Randy a shot anytime you down there. Hang it up high and let him go get it.

Word is that Rosenthal might have a broken foot, which could put him out for a long time. With him and Kleinsasser out, the OL will be hurting. The Eagles really took advantage of Haayer and the young TEs Dugan and Owens.(Goldberg was inactive)

Wiggens left the game in the second half because of a fractured left hand. He will be evaluated today. It's not good when your top two TE are out.

The Vikings really missed Moe Williams on the goal line. I doubt very much that he would have been brought down the way Smith was. Plus, they could have really used him to block in the backfield when the Eagles were blitzing.

Kickoff coverage was lacking last night. I thought Elling's kicks were not good at all. No hang-time, no distance - you have to have one or the other.

Oh well, Chicago next week, then a bye.

TC

[Durango53]

That was what I was talking about with Moe was his blocking in the back field.

SUCKS ON Rosenthal!!!!!! Wiggens was having a great game down low for the Vikings a great pick up for them with how he was catching the ball and laying the hit on guys... He was a up point for sure....

They didnt try to streach the field once last night. But also Culpepper didnt have time to find the seams on the football last night. Faults starts and holdings on the line was just awful!!!

And as much as I got to love the Wyoming boy Elling it is time to find a guy that can get the job done. I think it is time to burn a high draft pick on a K that can get the job done.............

The Defense also last night looked as young as it is. The LB's looked confused and the line got man handled.

The bye early this year will help this team with all the guys that are hurt but it is looking like the only guy they might be back will be Bennett and Moe and then lose Smith.

But I might get to see Goldberg play now... :notme:

[Nanner]

Man...... injuries. Last night really showed how we need those guys. And now with Rosenthal out......... DAMN! :(

I want Kleinsasser back! :(

I had to turn it off...... but I stuck it out to the final 2 minutes.

Yuck. :(

[rockin500]

at least you guys have a win next week. i dont expect the bears to win now that i see Tillman is out for a month.

so you should be healthy against us next week! lol

[>TC<]

Either late this week or next week they'll decide whether Kleinsasser will be able to play or if he'll undergo season ending ACL surgery. They are hoping the other muscles surounding the knee are strong enough so that he might be able to play out the year with a brace.

TC

[>TC<]

Culpepper completed 37-of-47 passes for 343 yards, one touchdown and one interception, which came on the Vikings’ final drive. RB Onterrio Smith gained 28 yards on 10 carries and had eight catches for 56 yards, and Culpepper chipped in 41 yards rushing on eight carries. Moss made eight catches for 69 yards, while TE Jermaine Wiggins had eight receptions for 65 yards and WR Nate Burleson made five catches for 67 yards.

Minnesota managed to control the football, posting a time-of-possession advantage of 37:53 to 22:07. The Vikings also outgained the Eagles 410-317.

The Vikings' kicking game remains a concern. P Darren Bennett struggled for the second straight week; PK Morten Andersen missed a 44-yard FG try that would have changed the face of the game and kickoff specialist Aaron Elling's longest kickoff carried only to the 10-yard line.

Vikings WR Randy Moss’ advice to head coach Mike Tice about beating the Eagles Monday night, which Minnesota failed to do: “I kept coming to the sideline and telling Coach, ‘I see fear in their eyes. Let’s keep attacking.’ I think I was more frustrated because we kept driving, driving, driving. We put yards on the scoreboard, but we didn’t put up the points.”


TC

[>TC<]

DE Kenny Mixon comes back from his two game suspension next week against the Bears. Maybe he can help jumpstart a DL that has been a major disappointment so far.

TC

[Durango53]

DE Kenny Mixon comes back from his two game suspension next week against the Bears. Maybe he can help jumpstart a DL that has been a major disappointment so far.

TC
Amen

[>TC<]

It's official. Rosenthal is out for the year with a broken foot. It's a major injury and screws will have to be inserted to help it heal. Kleinsasser visited Dr. James Andrews and the prognosis is that he will have season ending knee reconstruction surgery. Wiggens is out for 2-3 weeks with a broken hand. Bennett is out for Sunday but should be back after the bye. Moe Williams will be evaluated this week but should play in a limited role against Chicago.

Bryant McKinnie also was injured Monday night and limped off the filed. He tweeked his knee. He managed to play through the discomfort, but was a bit limited in his mobility. He is said to be good to go this week. With all the injuries on the OL, and the inexperienced replacements, the Vikings are planning on keeping an extra offensive lineman on the active roster for Sunday's game.


TC

[Durango53]

I just saw this too TC. I have Kfan on this morning and I cant believe that they are trying to blame this on Culpepper!!!! I cant believe how many people are thinking that Culpepper isnt the right QB for this team!!!

All I can ask is what game was you watching!!!!!!!! No QB monday night would have done any better than Culpepper!!!! Look at how many sacks he broke and everything!!! This guy didnt have time to do crap back there in the pocket because the line was letting everything though with no problems!!!! This guy was having to make it as he went!!!

Oh well I guess welcome to being a QB in the NFL....

Man I dont know what to think now. I think we Viking fans know what the line means to a team. The Offense line makes this team and with Rosenthal out and Jimmy out there goes one side of the line. I would love to see Goldberg play but not like this!!! I just dont know what to think about the Vikings chances now. You cant throw it deep if the QB dont have time to let Moss get down feild more than 5 yards before he has to dump it....

[Durango53]

Pro Bowl C Matt Birk rarely makes one mistake in a game. To hear his named called twice for infractions is unheard of. Except for Monday, when he was penalized twice for holding in a 27-16 loss at Philadelphia. Birk's second holding penalty was questionable, at best, but it still negated an 11-yard touchdown run by Daunte Culpepper. The score would have closed the gap to 17-13 with the extra point. "The bottom line is they called me for holding and it cost us points," Birk said. It just exemplifies what happened to us today. It was a critical mistake by me."

I think there was a ton of bad calls in this game but it still dont make up for the fact that the Vikings didnt play there game.

[Durango53]

The Vikings ran four plays inside the 3-yard line, and none of them were passes. None went for touchdowns. WR Randy Moss was upset, but he wasn't blaming offensive coordinator Scott Linehan. "That's on the players, not the coaches," Moss said. "I think (not scoring in the red zone) is what really frustrated us. Philly has a good defense, but after what we did against Dallas lat week, our mindset was to come in here and do the same thing."

I think this shows how much they miss Moe Williams. This is the place where it is his ball and he will Get er done....

[Durango53]

The Vikings seem to have slipped back into the kind of road funk they experienced when they lost their first seven away from the Metrodome under coach Mike Tice. The Vikings have lost six consecutive road games, including last season's embarrassing stretch that included losses at San Diego, Oakland and Arizona. "I told the guys, `We have to win on the road to be a good team; we can't just win at home, where everyone is screaming for you, and saying nice things to you,'" Tice said.

I go back to what I was saying at the start of this last year. On the road the Vikings aint playing there game. They are not pressing down the field!!! They are not streaching the Defense!!!

Hey TC I am more of a Defense guy but hell get me the number and I am going to go for a O- coach with the Vikings!!! I am going to turn it lose and it is going to be balls flying and guys running there asses off!!!!

I think Culpepper could be a guy that could call his own plays out there and do better....

[Durango53]

"I kept coming to the sideline telling Coach, 'I see fear in their eyes. Let's keep attacking,'" Moss said. "I think I was more frustrated because we kept driving, driving, driving. We put yards on the scoreboard, but we didn't put up the points."

You and all Vikings fans watching!!!!!! :angry:

[Durango53]

Bears CB Todd McMillon just laughed when asked if he could guess what the Vikings were thinking about the injuries that have devastated Chicago's secondary. "...Go deep!" McMillon said, chuckling.

[Durango53]

Bill Brown, the third-leading rusher in Vikings' history, will join the team's Ring of Honor in a halftime ceremony on Sunday. Brown, who played for the Vikings from 1962-1974, becomes the 13th person to be recognized with a banner in the Metrodome.

:thumbsup: :clap: :clap: :clap:

[Durango53]

As expected, the Vikings ended the seasons of OT Mike Rosenthal and TE Jim Kleinsasser by placing them on injured reserve Wednesday.

[Durango53]

The Vikings now have seven players on injured reserve, including cornerback Ken Irvin -- who ruptured his right Achilles' tendon while warming up before the Cowboys game.

Tight end Sean Berton, who made the team as an undrafted rookie last year but was cut in training camp, was signed to replace Kleinsasser. Berton, a reliable blocker, will share time at the position with rookie Richard Owens. Rookie Jeff Dugan will back them up.

[Durango53]

And speedy Eagles defensive end Jevon Kearse, lined up on the other side, didn't exactly provide a warm welcome.

"I can play better," Haayer said, without hesitation.

The Vikings love Dorsey's 6-foot-7, 322-pound frame and his footwork, and in the long run it's probably his job to lose.

Left tackle Bryant McKinnie has been mentoring Dorsey, who's been making the transition from the left side to the right since training camp began. The biggest adjustment is using a different hand in the three-point stance.


I think he just needs some reps and he should be fine!!!! I hope that is!!!!

[Durango53]

Sean Berton, who made the team as an undrafted free agent from North Carolina State last year, stayed around the Twin Cities when he was cut in training camp and was signed after the team tracked him down at the Mall of America.

He will split time at tight end with rookie Richard Owens, and rookie Jeff Dugan -- whistled for two false starts in the fourth quarter against the Eagles -- will be the backup after showing a few nerves on Monday night. Berton is a blocking specialist, but Owens -- who went undrafted out of Louisville -- is an intriguing receiver who caught three passes for 36 yards in Philadelphia.

Owens was raised in central Florida, just like his quarterback.

"Not too far from where I grew up," Culpepper said. "Some of the same things I drank in the water, he drank in the water. So he's going to be a hard-nosed player. I love him. I respect him."


Glad that Culpepper like the guy because he is going to have to protect him!!!

[Shadyrock]

2-0 baby!

[Durango53]

Just remember that was vs to bad teams... The Lions are on the right track but still will have a hard time getting to .500 I think ;)

[Durango53]

Ok most of you know I have not been a Moss fan to much over the years and I have been hoping he has changed his strips here and he has been looking like it over the past year.

But now I am a fan of Moss. He just caught a TD and with no fan fair or no TD dance or anything he catchs the ball for 6 and runs to the sidelines and hands a ball to a guy in a wheel chair and did a playfull slap to the head and ran off!!!

Hats off to you Randy you have now made a fan out of a guy that wasnt to much of one over the years and I hope people are starting to see what this guy is doing not with his play but with his actions on and off the field!!!!

[Durango53]

Moss also standing up for teammates. Man he jumped right in to and lead that fight to protect Nate when he got pounded with the helmet!!! Way to lead Moss!!! He has been very impressive this year so far.

[rockin500]

moss had a good game today.

but it was a pretty ugly game all around. both teams made lots of mistakes. The vikings didnt deserve to win, but chicago definitely deserved to lose for some of their mistakes.

[Durango53]

You are right Ray. That has been the Vikings game for the past few games going back to where they started to lose last season.

The Vikings have been playing very bad and having a ton of mistakes. And mistakes that they shouldnt do at all... It is getting very sick to watch. They lost a game they was in most of the game last week by dumb mistakes and like you said they won but didnt deserve to win at all because of all the mistakes.

Sad to see one of my favorite players out in Urlacker also :( hope he gets well for you guys!!!! But thanks Ray, Rex looks like he is going to be a good one for you. If you can get some WR for him to throw to now you guys will be good.

[Durango53]

Ok people lets talk about something here.....

Lets talk about my favorite player on the Vikings. He is in a contract year and I have always liked him but lets talk about the job he is doing and what is going to happen to him and what you think of him.

He is Chris Hovan. I love his motor and how he plays. But then that has been part of what I have been worried about. In the past two or three years after Randle left Hovan hasnt stepped up. They said that he has been double teamed all the time and needed the help.

Well now he has the help and I didnt say anything last year but now with Williams and Mixion back and there first round draft pick he hasnt been double teamed and he hasnt done a thing. I am kind of bummed out about it and dont know what is going to happen to him.

I think if he dont step it up the Vikings will offer him a contract but not that much. Will he take it or will some other team offer him more like the Packers or Lions to steal him and the Vikings let him go?

I just dont know what to think about him any more what do you guys think about him?

[rockin500]

urlacher had a twinge in his hammy but he should be ready after the byewhich is going to suck next week. I'm honestly surprised we were doing as well as we did considering our secondary is decimated. three of our 4 starters are down.

[>TC<]

Okay - Lots of stuff to cover.

Injuries - not a good game at all for the Vikes
Matt Birk - out two weeks, sprained ankle
Chris Claiborne - out at least two weeks, strained calf muscle
EJ Henderson - out three to four seeks, sprained MCL left knee

Bill Brown, the third-leading rusher in Vikings' history, will join the team's Ring of Honor in a halftime ceremony on Sunday. Brown, who played for the Vikings from 1962-1974, becomes the 13th person to be recognized with a banner in the Metrodome.

This was great and overdue. It was supposed to happen last year but Chris Carter called Red McCombs and said he wanted to be put in the ring in 2003, or never - meaning he went ahead of Brown. Unfortunately, Brown's wife was in ill-health, even in 2003. She died this past June, missing the chance to see her husband honored. - Just another totally classless, me first, move by Chris Carter. He always did have Red snowed.

TC

[>TC<]

I've never been a huge Hovan guy. I think you'll see him just being part of the rotation this season. He hasn't shown that he can be an every down DL, so far. The team was really hoping that by losing some of the bulk he put on in 2003, that he would reagain that quickness that made him effective in his rookie year. It hasn't happened.


Bottom line is that if he doesn't pick it up, there is no way he commands big money from the Vikings, or anyone else.

TC

[Durango53]

Bottom line is that if he doesn't pick it up, there is no way he commands big money from the Vikings, or anyone else.

TC
So even if he dont pick it up do you think the Vikings even offer him a contract? :notme:

[Durango53]

Durango's Going Into the Bye Week Thoughts

Man oh man I hate to see a bye week so early in the season but could it have happened any better for the Vikings?

So many people getting hurt so early and pulling out a win this week and a game that I felt we should have won last week but gave it away with bad mistakes that should have never happened.

Now it is a time for them to get heathly and such and get Bennett back after we lose Smith.

Smith this guy has stepped up and is a real deal I feel. I still stand by my thought of he smoked dope and should had sit. But he didnt and the Vikings worked it out and got him when he needed it. Now Bennett is coming back and Smith is going away. Which one will be back next year? Both? One? Who will be the starter? Is there a team that has a better RB core than the Vikings? I dont think so.

Culpepper when he has had time (which hasnt been much) has looked like one of the best QB's in the league. Vick would do good to watch him to learn to play the game. How hard is it to sack this guy?

The line has fell apart this year. I hope they can get it together this off week. There jumping offsides, holding is killing this freaking team!!!!!

And then the D!!!! They add new guys to sure up the D and it looks just as bad. They have been holding teams at the end zone but they are letting them march down the field at will. This line has to step up they have got no pressure on the QB at all. Williams is double teamed and is still getting in there some but Hovan isnt doing nothing and Rookie Udeze has showed the speed but is learning and will get there. And Mixion is back after 3 weeks off. So they might start stepping it up but Hovan must get going that is the must...

I think they showed how hugh getting Kleinsasser signed was to this team. They run over a good D with the Cowboys with Jim playing great. He gets hurt and the offense looks like they are having trouble now. Jim I could about say is the heart of that line and offense by the way he plays on the field...

And Moss. Where did the old one go and this new one is here? I hope this is the new Moss and this is the guy that will be there the rest of the time he plays football. It looks like he has learned who butters his bread and such. I got to say Tice is the main reason for that. He has stepped up and lead this team by his actions on and off the field. :clap:

But if this team dont get two things fixed they are done. One is the D-line that has to get pressure on the QB and the other is the O-line. They must stop there dumb peneltys and start to block.

What are your thoughts Vikings fans? :notme:

[>TC<]

The OL is in trouble because of injuries and inexperience. Rosenthal - out for the year, Kleinsasser - out for the year, Birk - out for three weeks, after missing the whole preseason with an injury, Dorsey - a rookie, Haayer - second year guy, TWO rookie TE

Tice seems confident that they will come around.

The DL was better, but still has a ways to go. The D lost two starting LBs on Sunday and still did okay.

I don't have a feel for the Hovan status yet. Tice has criticized him one week, then given him some credit the next.


TC

[LesPaul]

I thought it was funny when I saw your first post about Hovan Shad, I was thinking the same thing as I watched Hovan play, wondering where the hell he was at. I think it has shifted from Hovan being a guy to help out the new guys instead of bringing in new guys to help out Hovan. He just does not have that fire of his Rookie year, maybe Randle was his catalyst :notme:

[Durango53]

Ya I just dont know. I love the guy and everything but he just isnt doing what he should. I dont and dont think they will over pay him but I would hate to see him lost also.

[Durango53]

WR Nate Burleson is emerging as the most reliable midrange receiver when defenses focus on WRs Randy Moss and Marcus Robinson. Burleson's soft hands and precise route running could lead to a big year.

[Durango53]

Hey TC any news on Onterrio Smith? There in the Twins Cities?

[Durango53]

Quick Hits
Tice said center Matt Birk (ankle) will be listed as probable for next week's game against the Texans. LB Chris Claiborne (calf), LB E.J. Henderson (knee) and TE Jermaine Wiggins (hand) should all return the following week at New Orleans. ... The Vikings haven't given up a score when their opponent's possession starts 80 yards or more from the goal line. ... Guard Dave Dixon might have had, in Tice's estimation, the best game of his career against Chicago. He had seven knockdowns. "Dave's a powerful guy, but I don't know if I've ever seen a guy do that," Birk said. ... Darren Bennett, signed, has punted just five times in three games

[Nanner]

Bill Brown, the third-leading rusher in Vikings' history, will join the team's Ring of Honor in a halftime ceremony on Sunday. Brown, who played for the Vikings from 1962-1974, becomes the 13th person to be recognized with a banner in the Metrodome.

This was great and overdue. It was supposed to happen last year but Chris Carter called Red McCombs and said he wanted to be put in the ring in 2003, or never - meaning he went ahead of Brown. Unfortunately, Brown's wife was in ill-health, even in 2003. She died this past June, missing the chance to see her husband honored. - Just another totally classless, me first, move by Chris Carter. He always did have Red snowed.

TC

Wow. That totally sucks. :angry:

Bill Brown........ isn't Rich Gannon married to Bill Brown's daughter?

So, anyhoo...... hi guys.... :wave1: Just dropping in to catch up on the news.

[Durango53]

Hey Nancy!!!!!!!

Been kind of slow here in the Viking thread with the week off. Much needed for this team but should be ready to go this week vs the Texans!!!!!!

[Durango53]

NO FREAKING WAY!!!!!!!!!! :banghead: :banghead: :banghead:

Smith you freaking moron!!!!! You are a freaking idiot!!!!!!! You could have this team and be the number one guy RIGHT NOW!!!!

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Minnesota running back Michael Bennett will miss at least two more games after undergoing arthroscopic surgery Monday to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee.

Bennett, who hasn't played since spraining the knee in an Aug. 27 exhibition game, reinjured the knee in his first fully padded practice Thursday when he was hit by rookie linebacker Dontarrious Thomas.

The injury was expected to push back his season debut until Oct. 24 against Tennessee.

"We could try to rush him back and have him for New Orleans (on Oct. 17)," coach Mike Tice said. "I think we're better served to hold him out until Tennessee."


:banghead:

[Durango53]

OT Nat Dorsey left Georgia Tech a year early. He was selected in the fourth round of this year's draft with the intention of spending a year working on his strength and easing into the NFL. Four games later, he's starting at right tackle. He played all but the first two series of the Chicago game in place of Adam Haayer, a stopgap starter who was replacing Mike Rosenthal, who is on injured reserve because of a foot injury. "You know why Nat left Georgia Tech early?" Tice asked. "He was mad the Tech coaches didn't nominate him for all-conference. He didn't expect to make it, but he thought he should be nominated. The Tech coaches didn't nominate him because they wanted to motivate him. They wound up motivating him right to us in the fourth round of the draft."

[>TC<]

Shelley Gannon, is a former All-America gymnast at the University of Minnesota, and the daughter of former Minnesota Vikings running back Bill Brown...

She was a sweetheart! - very cute and nice to boot. I went to the University of Minnesota at the same time she was there and I had her in some classes.


TC

[Durango53]

Onterrio Smith of the Minnesota Vikings has been suspended without pay for the next four regular-season games for violating the NFL Substance Abuse Policy.

Smith is eligible to return to the Vikings' active roster on Monday, November 1 following the team's October 31 game against the New York Giants.

[>TC<]

Durango - Tice said that Adam Goldberg and Haayer will battle it out this week for the chance to be the #1 backup at tackle and guard this week. It would be the first week that Goldberg hasn't been deactivated.

TC

[Durango53]

That is cool. I am going for Goldberg just because he was such a good guy in Wyoming!!!! I know both are young but Haayer just looked out of it everytime he has got in. I know he is young and hasnt played that much but I got to go for Goldberg!!!!

[Durango53]

Man oh man there is so much!!!!!!

First off is there a better team in the league or I mean deeper team in the league at RB than the Vikes!!!!! TC you was right on the head with Moore!!! What a guy and he is the number 4 guy!!!!!! :eek:

And along that line I am about sick of the O coach!!!! WHAT THE HELL IS HE THINKING!!!!!! The Vikes are running all over the Texans the first half and then the second half they QUIT!!!!!!!! That is the freaking whole story of the damm Vikings. That is what I have been b!tching about this whole thread for a year and a half now!!!! They have a running game that NO ONE can stop but the Viking coachs and they stop it all the time!!!! RUN THE FREAKING BALL!!!!!!!!!!

Ok enough of that. WHERE IS THE FREAKING O-LINE!!!!!!!!! They look like the O-line of two or three years ago!!! They are giving Culpepper NO TIME!!!!!


TC is there something wrong with McKinny??? He was looking like a used rag out there. They was running around him all game long!!!!!!

I blame this game all on the coachs!!! Quiting running half way though the game when it was going so freaking great!!!

Hovan did some today but I say that is all do to Williams!!!! He had a great game on the line!!!

How big of a player is Culpepper??? If he aint the best QB in the league then I dare ask who is better???

This game should have been done at half with the Vikings running the ball 90% of the time at the second half.

[Durango53]

Also too where are the deep posts or streaks to Kelly Cambell? With using Moss on the other side and then firing Kelly down the other side how many CB's in the league can keep up? If there is any I bet my ass they would be on Moss. It almost always seems to work when they do that. I havnt seen but 3 or 4 of those passes all year long when I would be running them 3 or 4 times a game!!!! Put a 4 WR set out there swing Moore out on a sweep for a outlet on a blitz and send Moss deep on one side with Cambell deep on the other and Nate and Robinson doing some inside I dont think that could be stopped?

Oh ya I would expect the line to block something other than the sun which that is all they have been doing!!!!!!

[>TC<]

Here's the deal ... by the time the game was over, there were 11 players who started the season as starters or significant roles who are injured and can't play. 11 ! Other teams are griping about injuries and we are missing almost half of our core players.

Culpepper finished the game with a 74% completion rate, and another QB rating over 100. He was checking off a lot at the line, and that was part of the reason for going away from the running game. A blitz looks like it is mostly there to stop the pass but in reality, it is the most effective way to stop the run. They were keeping 7/8 guys up tight every play. That's one reason the long passes worked when Daunte had time.

Goldberg was on the roster this week and did play a bit.

Tice commented that both our young tackles struggled to hear the the snap count. I don't know if you got the game on TV, but the announcers were showing a graphic about how Houston's stadium was causing more false start penalties than any stadium in the league. Then the tackles start trying to hold back a second to make sure the ball is snapped and then they get beat around the corner. Bad situation. There were a couple times when Daunte actually had to walk to each end of the O-line when calling an audible and tell them the play up close because they couldn't hear the play call.

This offense is hard to stop. 3-1 isn't bad, with all the injuries this team has.

TC

[>TC<]

By the way, Tice is very unhappy with Kelly Campbell over his unsportsman like conduct penalty for stepping on the field to celebrate with Daunte after the TD. We ended up kicking off from the 15 yard line and Houston ran it back to the 42 to start the series, then scored a TD on the short field. He said on his show last night that Kelly might well be fined, since this is his second celebration penalty

TC

[Nanner]

WOOHOO!!! WE'RE 3-1?!?

Wow. With all those injuries, that's cool!! :thumbsup:

Sucks about the Houston stadium. :angry:

GO VIKES!!!!!

:cheer: :jump: :cheer: :jump:

[Smoz]

Vikings are kicking ass, I must say!!

GO COWBOYS!!!

[LesPaul]

you had me scared Shad that the Vikes were gonna blow this one, I was afraid to ask "did they win?" atleast the vikes pulled it off, too bad for my other teams this wknd with the huskers and twins losing.

[Durango53]

Shot Ryan they tried!!!!!

I saw that stat on the faults starts but TC the line had what 3 two weeks ago in the Dome?

It was things like this that killed this team last year and the game with the Eagles!!!

Oh well they won so good news there!!!!

And doing it with a 4th string RB and a make shift line now. Birk out, Rose out and the guy that I think makes that line as good as it was last year with Jim Klin.

I think this team should learn to play together and I felt they would win the div and with the Pack doing what they are doing it might be a dog fight with the Lions. ;)

But I think they will get it together and come on strong at the end of the season. They will get the line figured out and be ok!!!

[LesPaul]

:D yes! a win in a no-D shootout

[>TC<]

And a win with Moss coming out injured. Hopefully, it's not too bad. What's amazing is they still posted 425 yards passing without him! Daunte's third 5 TD effort of the year! Moore has another outstanding game! This offense is something!

TC

[rockin500]

anyone hear how bad he is hurt?

[Durango53]

Got back in town late last night Ray I will see what I can dig up if TC dont hear anything....

I dont know like TC said Culpepper still had a great game without Moss so it might not hurt the team if Randy sits out a week so they know that they can win and still move that offense very good with out him...

But still there is no WR in the game that can do what Randy can and he changes the game.

[Durango53]

Moss is a ? for the next game. They are saying he might but they should know on friday from what I have been seeing.

Ok guys what do you do with Bennett and Smith?!?!?!?

TC you nailed it on the head on Moore... This guy is a freaking stud and he can take a hit and keep on going and going!!!! It was nice to see Moe in there for a few but holy cow the number 4 guy in the Vikings RB lineup could start for about 95% of the NFL teams it looks like!!!!

I think you got to trade one of the top two out this off season to get some good draft picks.

A good win for the Vikings this week I feel. Even though the D let a ton of points on the board I dont think that showed how they played. I saw a few falling down prayers that the Saints just compleated.

[Durango53]

Coach Mike Tice described the injury as more than mild, but Moss could be able to play a limited role in next weekend's home game against the Tennessee Titans.


"He's a freak," Tice said, "and he heals really quick."

[Durango53]

we're just going to update the current pace that Daunte Culpepper is on. Through Week 6: 5,651 yards and 58 TDs.

[Durango53]

Culpepper threw five touchdown passes for an NFL-record third time this season

The Vikings (4-1) had 605 yards of offense and converted 8 of 11 third downs.

"In all my time in the NFL, I've never seen a quarterback this hot," said cornerback Ashley Ambrose, a 13-year veteran.

Culpepper, who led the NFL with a 126.0 passer rating going into the game, threw his fifth touchdown pass of the game to Robinson

[Nanner]

WOOHOO!!! :jump:

I was in Minneapolis and got to watch the game at my brother's with Mom! It was great to be able to see them play a terrific game!! :cheer:

Mewelde Moore is totally amazing! :eek:

:hail:

For some reason, I don't think Randy will be out that long. If they have to keep him out for one game, to make sure he's healed up, then so be it. He didn't look like he was in that much pain as he was lying there........ unless he's got a really high pain threshold. :notme:

Geez. It was fun watching that game. Plus, I ended up winning a teeny bit of cash.

:eek: :D (My mother's a bad influence. :D )

GO VIKES!!!!!

:jump: :cheer:

[Durango53]

Welcome back Nancy!!!!!!

I to was in Viking land when that game was going!!!! I was back home in South Dakota!!!

You are right on Moore he looks great. He can catch and move!!!!

I to dont think Randy will be out long. I get that feeling from him that if they dont want him to play that they will have to tie him up in the locker room and have Jerry Ball sit on him to hold him down........
But I would like to see him sit out a week just to be ready for the Colts game. (Any bets that those two teams will score over a 100 points?) But Culpepper showed that he dont need Moss that bad with that running game they have and with the other WR stepping up big time!!!

Nice to see the Av back Nancy!!!!

[Durango53]

As recently as last week, all signs pointed to Bennett (knee) returning in Week 7 and playing a prominent role. However, Mewelde Moore will start, and Moe Williams also will be in the mix.

[Durango53]

WR Randy Moss and C Matt Birk were drafted by the Vikings in 1998. Birk missed three preseason games because of hernia surgery and missed all but the last three plays of the Houston game two weeks ago because of a sprained ankle. Now Moss is struggling with a strained right hamstring. "You know us 1998 models," Birk said. "We need some tuneups. We're starting to fall apart."

[Durango53]

The NFL did not fine WR Kelly Campbell for a taunting penalty in the Oct. 10 game at Houston despite coach Mike Tice's plea for the league to do so. Campbell was fined $5,000 for a taunting penalty following his touchdown reception in the season opener against Dallas. Campbell came off the sideline to celebrate a Randy Moss touchdown reception at Houston.

[Durango53]

MLB E.J. Henderson, who has missed the past two games because of a knee injury, will be pushed hard in practice Wednesday. If he doesn't have a setback, he will start in the base defense. Dontarrious Thomas, who has started in place of Henderson, would continue to play MLB in the nickel.

[Durango53]

WLB Chris Claiborne aggravated his left calf strain in the first half of the Saints game. The Vikings won't even try to get him ready for this week. They'll start Raonall Smith, a former second-round draft pick who has impressed the coaching staff while filling in for Claiborne the last two weeks. Smith suffered a mild concussion against the Saints but will be fine for this week's game.

[Durango53]

RB Michael Bennett, who hasn't played since the third preseason game because of a right knee injury, will test his leg in practice Wednesday. Barring a setback, he should be ready to play on Sunday. But there is no rush because rookie Mewelde Moore has proved more than capable as the featured back the last two weeks.

[Durango53]

The Vikings won't decide until Friday or Saturday whether to play All-Pro WR Randy Moss, who missed the second half of Sunday's 38-31 victory at New Orleans because of a hamstring injury.

Coach Mike Tice described the injury Monday as, "a little worse than mild" and "a nice little strain." Tice, however, noted that Moss is a notoriously quick healer and shouldn't be counted out for Sunday's home game against Tennessee.

"Randy's a weird dude, and he's a freak who heals really quick," Tice said. "I wouldn't be surprised if he's up this week in some limited role."

"I hope (Moss plays)," said receiver Marcus Robinson. "But we're a team. Sometimes you have to play without your leader. Even if it is Randy Moss."

[LesPaul]

Moss needs to bust out the fro again :D then Tice can say "He's a freak" again :D its a good freak too

[Durango53]

Great game today and again great game for Moore!!!!!!

Nice to see this O-Line start to come together!!!!

And if anyone hasnt noticed this defense is starting to play some also!!!! Even though the score didnt show last week the D did do some things and this week they had a great game!!!!

[Durango53]

Moss extended his consecutive games streak to 102 with a token start, but his strained right hamstring kept him out of Minnesota's plans and he went without a catch for the first time in his seven-year career.

"We knew kind of going in that we were going to be bright with it," coach Mike Tice said. "If we were able to move the ball, we were going to hold him out."

The All-Pro receiver didn't come out for the second half. Although the only two routes he ran weren't long, the Vikings (5-1) said Moss aggravated the injury.

"It was never un-aggravated," Tice said.

[Durango53]

Two years ago, the Vikings drafted Raonall Smith out of Washington State with the 38th overall pick. But he spent much of his first two seasons injured and watching from the sidelines.


Smith had five tackles, two defended passes and recorded the first interception of his career Sunday in a 20-3 victory over Tennessee.

[Durango53]

Center Matt Birk suffered a mild concussion in the fourth quarter, and backup Billy Conaty finished the game for him. But Birk is expected to be probable for Sunday's game against the Giants. ... Guard Adam Goldberg sprained both his right knee and ankle, but both injuries were considered mild and he continued to play. ... WR Ryan Hoag, the former Gustavus and Minneapolis Washburn star, was expected to return kickoffs, but he was inactive. Mewelde Moore and Kelly Campbell were the kickoff return men.

[Durango53]

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Randy Moss is expected to play a real role for the Minnesota Vikings this weekend, even without a fully healed right hamstring.

[Nanner]

Yikes. Didn't he aggravate it on Sunday by going in for a couple of plays?

I think they should just rest him. I know he's got a consecutive game streak going........ but I'd hate to see him really get worse and not be at full strength for the rest of the season. :(

[racosun]

No doubt. Moss should take a week off to let it heal better. The way the Lions rolled over them, the Gints shouldn't be too tough for the crazy Vike offense.

[>TC<]

Tice isn't going to take any chances with his franchise guy. If Moss is ready, he'll play, if he's not, you'll see something like last week where he starts and is in for one or two plays. Tice did say that he's been getting better every day.

TC

[Durango53]

Ok guys it is done and over with!!! The Red Sox had shown you can break what ever is stopping you from winning the big games!!!!!

That has to give us Viking fans hope!!!!!!!!!

So lets get a Super Bowl won before we are all gone!!!!!!

[Timberwolf]

Vikings better beat the Giants this Sunday. Giants started the Vikings demise last year after a 6-0 start. I am sick and tired of seeing the Vikings lose to the Giants. I have grown to hate the Giants since 2000 in the NFC Championship Game. Giants always seem to find a way to beat the Purple and I am tired of it.

Hopefully, this will end Sunday at the Dome.

This is a big game in my mind.

[Durango53]

I have grown to hate the Giants since 2000 in the NFC Championship Game. Giants always seem to find a way to beat the Purple and I am tired of it.


That makes two of us!!!!!!!!

[LesPaul]

ya, perhaps simply the horror of how traumatizing that loss was, a blow-out shutout, has them still feeling the effects. i dont think it matters this year. daunte is rolling and the running game is there in whatever back is playing.

but.....if it does happen again will it again cause the team to start second guessing themselves all over again? i didnt realize how important this game is.

[Timberwolf]

This Giants game is important to me because I live in Northern New Jersey so I don't want to go read the papers on Monday with a headine saying "GIANTS OWN THE VIKINGS" Giants fans can be very abrasive here. I just simply don't like the Giants. I wish they would move out of Giants Stadium and get their own stadium in NYC instead of NJ.

[Durango53]

For the Vikings every win is important but yes with the ass kickings the Giants have gave them in the past this is one they must have to get to the next level I feel also.

Have they ever got over that lose in the playoffs from the Gaints? Right after that game I heard that the Gaints was tapping into the plays that was being radioed in and that was soon made a very quite matter. So after that I to have always hated the Gaints.

[Durango53]

this is making me sick!!!!!

[Nanner]

this is making me sick!!!!!

This sucks! :(

I didn't get home until into the 2nd quarter, and couldn't believe it was 17-0!!! :Pissed:

Dang. They'd better get their crap together during half-time. :(

[Nanner]

I think we need a couple of these -------> :jump: :jump: :jump:

[Durango53]

Nancy at a time like this the Vikings need som