The Official 2007 Vikings Thread.

[Durango53]

:banana: :banana: :banana:

[>TC<]

Good Work, Mr. Moderator!

TC

[>TC<]

Second-year guys to know (from Pro Football Weekly)

By Jeff Reynolds (jreynolds@pfwmedia.com)
Aug. 1, 2005




Other than a select group of fanatical fantasy football types, the minority of Tulane alumni and some close friends, nobody knew Vikings RB Mewelde Moore could have the type of impact he did as an emergency fill-in last October.

But Moore proved the most versatile of Minnesota’s runners in 2004. The Vikings needed a warm body after expected starter Onterrio Smith went on a four-game NFL-mandated absence. Michael Bennett wasn’t an option due to injury and didn’t return until Week Seven, and Moe Williams’ legs couldn’t take the every-down pounding.

So head coach Mike Tice called upon the power pack that is Moore. Both were righteously rewarded: The Vikings went 3-0 with Moore as the primary option, and he rolled up a total of 537 yards from scrimmage vs. Houston, New Orleans and Tennessee.

Somehow, Moore is back in a similar situation at the start of 2005 as he found himself in last summer. The Vikings have handed the starting RB job to Bennett, and Moore, entering camp as the No. 2 back, could see much of his time on special teams. Williams and Ciatrick Fason, a rookie fourth-round pick, could get more work with the offense. It’s up to Moore to maximize his reps in camp and the preseason. Bennett is in a contract year and has much to prove given his lack of durability over the past two years.

There are those in Minnesota who believe Bennett’s seat as the top back is shaky at best, what with his foot problems and shortcomings as a scorer. His big-play ability excites Tice and new offensive coordinator Steve Loney, who wants to establish a running attack early in the season. Bennett also rates as the only member of the Minnesota backfield ever to carry a featured back title. But Moore could be one of the surprises of camp. His compact frame makes it difficult for defenses to locate Moore behind the massive Minnesota offensive line, and his ability to catch the ball like a wide receiver — 24 catches for 198 yards in that three-game stretch last year — earns huge bonus points. If Moore winds up starting, don’t expect a sophomore slump.


http://www.profootballweekly.com/PFW/Commentary/Columns/2005/reynolds080105.htm


TC

[>TC<]

* A Vikings source scoffed at reports that the team had contacted free-agent RB Eddie George about joining the team. Even without Onterrio Smith, the Vikings aren’t interested in bringing in a running back closer to the end of his career than his prime.


TC

[Durango53]

Ya I dont think he is coming now with the start of camp and all.

George is also doing color for the pre game now for Tenn. So how in shape he is would now be a huge question.

I dont know if I am the only one but I love what the Vikings have at RB right now. With Moe and Bennett and then the change up with Moore (I mean change up because he isnt like the other two) they could have a good three headed moster going on back there.

[Durango53]

St. Paul Pioneer Press: "In the Monday morning practice, Aaron Elling showed why he is the favorite to become the Vikings' kicker. Elling easily kicked a 51-yard field and then blasted the ensuing kickoff 4 yards into the end zone."

Just a little note for you all on the kicking spots....

And I think you all know who I am going for. ;)
:D

[>TC<]

One of the hottest topics in training camp is how defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell will be pulling together at least five new starters on a defense that ranked 28th in the league and was basically confused throughout most of 2004.

"It helps that we have some very good veteran guys that we brought in," coach Mike Tice said. "For example, (middle linebacker) Sam Cowart is a guy with great savvy who is really confident and can help the E.J. Hendersons of the team come along. Just like (new starting free safety) Darren Sharper is helping the (rookie) Dustin Foxes.

"You're really blessed when you're able to bring in veteran players who are leaders and willing to take on that role. We have a bunch of those guys now. We're really excited about it."

Cowart, a 30-year-old eight-year veteran, will start ahead of Henderson, who failed as the starter in 2004 in his second season. Sharper, a nine-year veteran who turns 30 in November, replaces the departed Brian Russell .

Other new starters include 32-year-old nose tackle Pat Williams , a nine-year veteran who takes over for 2004 rookie free agent Spencer Johnson ; strong-side linebacker Napoleon Harris and right cornerback Fred Smoot , the team's marquee free agent signing this offseason. Smoot began training camp on the physically-unable-to-perform list with a mild neck strain.

Rookie Erasmus James , the 18th overall pick from Wisconsin , could give the Vikings a sixth new starter on defense if he beats out Darrion Scott . James was not signed in time for the start of training camp.

The Vikings also have some talent returning on defense. The two best players on defense are holdovers Antoine Winfield at left cornerback and All-Pro tackle Kevin Williams .

Williams is coming off arthroscopic knee surgery and is a tad overweight at the start of camp, but he's still one of the best defensive tackle in the league. He's also excited about the new faces that are around him.

"I sat back and looked at every guy we signed and my eyes just got bigger and bigger," Williams said. "I mean it's more of a chance for us to pull our own load on the defensive side for a change, and not have to depend on the offense."


TC

[>TC<]

* Coach Mike Tice said training camp "never gets old for Mike Tice." Of course, he's now standing around in shorts and a whistle. "I like coming down here and thinking about football 24/7," Tice said. "I think Diane, my wife, likes me coming down here too and getting rid of me for awhile."

* Tice was asked if, during his hour-long drive to Mankato, Minn., he thought that this might be the last time he makes the trip as Vikings coach. Tice doesn't have a contract beyond this season. "I think you think about that," Tice told the reporter. "I don't think about that. I thought about watching my son in the rearview mirror watching Remember the Titans in the backseat of the car."


TC

[>TC<]

Just how good can Kevin Williams be with Pat Williams around?

"He could be one of the top defensive linemen I've ever had," Cottrell said. "He could be the best in this league. He's so talented, he could be a household name in this country."


TC

[>TC<]

Great read at SI

MANKATO, Minn. (AP) -- Nobody was open, so Daunte Culpepper tucked the ball away, started sprinting and sliced his way into the secondary with a few nimble moves on a hot Monday at Minnesota's training camp.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/football/nfl/specials/preview/2005/08/01/vikes.culpepper.ap/index.html

Now established in the NFL's elite, playing for a team that's expected to be one of the league's best this season, Culpepper fully embraces the attention.

"I accept it, I love it and I thrive on it," he said. "I feel like I was born for this."


TC

[LesPaul]

Just a little note for you all on the kicking spots....

And I think you all know who I am going for. ;)
:D

It would be aweseome to see Eiling be at full potential. Great news on him, heres to hoping he keeps it up :banana:

[Durango53]

I am excited to see what Culpepper can do this year and he can take all the credit for it. Well him and the other WR that is.

[LesPaul]

I am excited to see what Culpepper can do this year and he can take all the credit for it. Well him and the other WR that is.

Interesting to think about how he will perform without the Randy Ratio and perhaps for once Culpepper can take the field in control and not have to vie with Randy...

I haven't thought about that but it should be really interesting to see Culpepper be able to fully develop as the leader without distractions AND without McCombs watching and scrutinizing every thing.

[>TC<]

Training camp pulled in its first casualty Monday as rookie Dustin Fox went down for the count with a broken arm.

With improved depth on defense, the Vikings came into training camp with high hopes that 2005 would be a big season. That depth took a hit on the first full day of practice Monday, as rookie safety Dustin Fox went down with a broken left forearm.

Fox, who was signed less than a week ago, is expected to miss six weeks -- which would put him in line to return on or about the regular season opener Sept. 11.

This is the same injury he sustained last season, as a senior at Ohio State.


TC

[>TC<]

Vikings hope to rack up the sacks
BY SEAN JENSEN, Pioneer Press
August 3, 2005

MANKATO, Minn. - Kevin Williams has 22 sacks over his first two seasons, establishing a Vikings record.

The all-pro dropped opposing quarterbacks 11.5 times in 2004 and expects to add to that total this season.

"Sixteen would be great. Heck, 18 would be great," Williams said Tuesday, taking a break from training camp.

Then he paused before revealing his real magic number.

"I'm shooting for one more than Lance."

Williams and defensive end Lance Johnstone, who had 11 sacks last year, have engaged in a friendly competition for the team sack crown the past two years. Their game within the game provided some energy for an otherwise struggling Vikings defense, one consistently ranked among the NFL's worst since 1998.

Expect the sack race to gain more competitors this season. Pass rushers Kenechi Udeze and Erasmus James, first-round picks in 2004 and '05, respectively, give the Vikings more power up front, much to the delight of defensive line coach Brian Baker.

"We'd like to average three sacks a game, as a D-line," Baker said. "That hasn't been done in a long, long time, since the NFL has changed, with the West Coast offense. But it's a goal."

Baker believes the bold goal is achievable because of improvements to the Vikings' secondary and the addition of nose tackle Pat Williams. Udeze can't wait to get started.

"They can't put more than one guy on (the defensive ends), so it's going to be crazy," Udeze said. "The sky's the limit for whoever is out there."

Meanwhile, expect the battles between Kevin Williams and Johnstone to continue. And to be tight.

"I went into the last game of each season with the lead," Johnstone said, "and he catches and passes me. He'll have like the best game of his career. It's crazy."

In the 2003 season finale against Arizona, Johnstone had one of the finest games of his career, with two sacks, three quarterback hurries and one forced fumble. But Williams managed three sacks, one hurry and a forced fumble to win the competition by half a sack.

Through 13 games last year, Williams and Johnstone each had 10 sacks. After Johnstone notched one sack against Green Bay at the Metrodome on Dec. 24, Williams trailed by one heading into the season finale against Washington. Williams picked up a sack late in the third quarter, then split one with linebacker Keith Newman early in the fourth to take the title.

"He's won it the last two years by a half-sack each year," Johnstone said.

"I call him the half-sack master."

Johnstone isn't bitter. The two bet only bragging rights. Both believe the competition makes them, and the team, better.

"You need a running buddy because it helps us pick our game up," Johnstone said. "At the same time, it makes it fun for us during the year."

Added Williams, "Even when I'm tired, it lights the fire in me because I know he wants that sack as bad I do."

In recent years, few Vikings have contended for the sack crown. During his rookie season, Williams recorded the first double-digit sack season since John Randle had 10 in 1999. The Vikings' sack totals have been woeful in recent years. From 2000 to 2002, the Vikings mustered less than two sacks a game.

Since then, though, the Vikings have made solid improvements each season, culminating with 39 in 2004, tying them for the 12th in the NFL. The Atlanta Falcons' defense led the league with 48.

Now with the Williams duo, Johnstone, Udeze and James, sack supremacy is the Vikings' aim.


TC

[Durango53]

That sucks about Fox!!!! Man I wonder what is up with that arm......

[Pickles84]

They need to get Fox signed!!!!!

I think he is going to be a key part of this team if a guy goes down and with Sharpers past he needs to get in there and get going. I hope that Sharper has a strong season but I feel that Fox is a guy that the Vikings will have for some years and a good pick that needs to get in there....

I thought Fox was signed?
I agree with you. Dustin Fox will be a big player in the NFL in the years to come.
Anyway, the reason why I thought Fox was signed, is because he became the first Vikings 'casualty'. He broke his arm in training camp and will, hopefully, be back just in time for the first game of the regular season. It's a shame that his battle with Willie Offord (for 3rd SS behind Sharper and Chavous) has to be on hold. But I expect Fox to be at every practice to help him when he comes back.

[Durango53]

Ya he was signed. I read that before I read he was signed.

[>TC<]

MANKATO, Minn. (AP) -- It didn't take long for new teammates Pat Williams and Kevin Williams to find the common ground needed to forge a friendship.

In addition to having the same last name, the two grew up just two hours apart in the South, have the same tireless work ethic and are rooming together at training camp.

That Monroe, La., native Pat Williams and Fordyce, Ark., native Kevin Williams have become such fast friends came as a bit of a surprise to defensive line coach Brian Baker.

``I didn't know how they were going to be because they're opposites,'' Baker said. ``Pat is real outgoing, gregarious, where Kevin lurks in the creases and is not a very verbal guy. He just performs.''

The Vikings are hoping that bond translates to success on the field for a defensive line that has ranked near the bottom of the league in sacks and yards per carry in recent seasons.

With Kevin Williams, an emerging star who was an All-Pro last year in just his second season, and Pat Williams, a blue-collar hole-plugger who demands a double team on nearly every snap, the Vikings have a foundation for what could be a dominant unit.

``They're going to be a force,'' Baker said of the two buddies. ``They are real loud men in there. The offense is going to have to make a decision about where they're going to put the extra hat. You can't double-team both of them.''

While the Williams and Williams tandem might be a catchy name, Baker also has promising defensive ends Kenechi Udeze, Darrion Scott and Erasmus James, a first-round draft pick who remains unsigned. Lance Johnstone brings a speed rusher in passing situations, and Spencer Johnson and Steve Martin are capable backups.

The depth and flexibility is something that hasn't been seen in Minnesota for years.

It all starts in the middle, with Kevin Williams chasing down the quarterback and Pat Williams stopping the run. If you use the weights listed on the team's roster -- Kevin is listed at 311 pounds and Pat at 317 -- that's 628 pounds of tackles clogging the middle. Of course, one look at Big Pat would suggest that he hasn't seen 317 pounds since the senior prom at Woosman High.

``That's a linebacker's dream,'' weakside linebacker Dontarrious Thomas said. ``To have two big guys like that, I hope they're around for a real long time.''

The way these two get along, they don't figure to be going anywhere anytime soon.

``We bonded quick and we're roommates now,'' Kevin Williams said. ``We can't do anything but get stronger. He's going to be here for a while and I'm going to be here for a while so why not?''

Pat attended Kevin's wedding in the offseason and the two enjoy hanging out in the cramped dormitory at Minnesota State, Mankato.

``That's very important,'' Pat Williams said. ``It's good for us to be friends, know each other. That way I know what he's going to do (on the field) and he knows what I'm going to do. We're going to play off each other.''

Their contrasting styles would make Kevin Williams a prohibitive favorite in that category, but he knows that any success he has will be directly related to the big guy sitting right next to him.

``You can't double-team both guys up front,'' Kevin Williams said. ``People talk about how they might double-team me more, but how can you do that with a guy like Pat beside me? He's disruptive, he's always up the field.''


TC

[Durango53]

That is a great story Mark!!!!!! I cant wait to see that line!!!!!

[Timberwolf]

You know. I love Randy a great deal, but I swear some times I wonder if he thinks when he is talking. I was talking to TC on AIM the other day about how Randy feels that he was not used enough and how he could have had a better role. What is he talking about? Tice tried to devoted an offense called "the Randy Ratio" in his first year as a coach and Daunte did everything he could to give Randy the ball yet Randy thought he could have been used more. C'mon. Vikings offense was at times way too predictable in which everyone knew Randy would get the ball. How Randy is complaining is beyond me?

[Timberwolf]

Question for TC. Do you think Fason will play a big role in the running game when all is said and done? I know Tice is banking on Mwelede to have a big year, but that's no guarantee. He certainly hit the wall after the Giants game last year. I felt the Whizzinator was going to be the starting runningback, but he blew that opportunity on his stupidity. Can't trust Bennett to be healthy so I am hoping Fason can be the guy when all is said and done. I know it's too much pressure on a rookie, but.

[Timberwolf]

Tonight's tv news is reporting an agreement in principle for Troy Williamson. Word is, he will be in town by Tuesday, after his agent and the Vikings hammer out the details.

Good work by Zygi and Rod in getting these guys signed. I am very dissapointed that Erasmus is not in camp. There is no excuse for him to be out this long. He was in the middle of the pack selection in the first round. Who cares how much the first guy or the next guy after Erasmus was selected get? Erasmus is not going to be on food stamps anytime soon. Ted Cotrrell's defensive schemes is tough enough as it is so he has to be in camp. Do you think Erasmus will be signed anytime soon?

[Durango53]

I dont think Fason will be to big of a factor in the running game. I think he will gets his carries but nothing to big. Mark said in the past durning the earlier camps that Fason didnt impress or look like he was grasping the offense to quick. I wonder how he is looking now? Any updates? But with that said I dont think he will be the factor. Bennett did many right things and I think he will have the huge year this year and with Moe just being Moe is a great backup to have.

I to hope they get Erasmus signed quick but I think the defense has guys that are going to fit in just fine this year. Scott is the projected starter so far not James. Also you got Johnstone who had what 11 sacks on very limited downs also. James I feel will be a big factor down the line but I just dont know about this year and even though it has been a few days as you said Timber he will be behind and tough to catch up.

[Durango53]

Yes Johnstone had 11 sacks. This is a guy I feel has to be in every 3rd down on a passing down also.

[Durango53]

Thu Aug 4 2005 - Dontarrious Thomas is currently outplaying fellow weak-side linebacker Raonall Smith. This was a position battle that was over before it started. Thomas has more skill and more smarts than Raonall Smith.

I still think they should look into Henderson at Weak side but I hope Thomas does good there. His speed will be great if he can keep his head in the game and not get out of his lane.


Any news on Henderson Mark? How he is doing in TC?

[>TC<]

Nothing new on the Fason front, so far. He struggled to grasp the offense in mini-camps. They view Fason as a Moe Williams kind of back, down the line.

James is being held up by his agent, pure and simple. The guy doesn't want his player to sign for less than the pick behind him, it could cost him clients next year. This has nothing to do with doing what is best for James


TC


TC

[Timberwolf]

Man that's dissapointing about Fason. I guess I should not expect much from an rookie, but with the uncertainity of Bennett's health and the fact Moore could have a sophmore slump, I was counting on him to make an impact.

Erasmus needs to get his butt in camp. His agent works for Erasmus not the other way around. Also Erasmus will make tons of money eventually if he does very good.

[>TC<]

Live from Mankato

You can fool some of the people some of the time . . .
But not all of the people all of the time.

But give Troy Williamson and Ryan Hoag credit for trying.

The two jokesters switched jerseys at the end of practice this morning, just before exiting the field. The result had fans confused but the confusion didn’t last for long.

Hoag left the practice field first, still wearing a helmet as he walked through the gauntlet of fans who cheer and hope for autographs from the Vikes as they exit the field. So when Hoag walked out wearing the number 19, they began cheering “Troy! Troy!”

He walked up casually, signed a few autographs, and continued into the fieldhouse.

Williamson was next, wearing Hoag’s number. This time the crowd wasn’t fooled. They began shouting “Troy! Troy!” again

He humored the fans, tipped up his helmet to reveal his face, and then began signing several autographs before also heading into the fieldhouse.


TC

[>TC<]

Maybe we should care how Brad Johnson looks on Aug. 5.

The backup QB threw an ugly floater on a 15-yard out to Troy Williamson during team drills. Reserve CB Laroni Gallishaw picked it off and returned it about 60 yards for a touchdown.
A few plays later, No. 3 QB Shaun Hill threw a weak ball over the middle that went directly to S Rushen Jones.
At least Culpepper looked sharp. Burleson made a nice grab and Marcus Robinson went high to catch another Culpepper pass.

Ben Nelson has been switched to safety in light of all the injuries in the secondary.

Good news: Birk isn’t practicing, but he’s getting healthier. He raced McKinnie off the field after the first practice. Bad news: McKinnie won by a couple of steps.

Say goodbye to Skyler Fulton. He was cut. Say hello to a couple of new faces, WR Avion Black, a fourth-year pro, and WR Daryl Jones, a second-year guy.


TC

[>TC<]

The Vikings had a couple of additions to their injury list. The team’s defensive backs continue to drop. Cornerback Ken Irvin injured his right shoulder Wednesday in practice and was sent to the Twin Cities for an MRI on Thursday. Results aren’t available yet but Irvin is back in Mankato. Ralph Brown is running with the first team at the corner opposite Antoine Winfield.

Cornerback Brian Williams, already bothered by tightness in his right hamstring, had to leave town Thursday because of a death in the family. He is expected to return Sunday, which is an off-day for the players.

Rookie center Kyle Schmitt sprained the medial collateral ligament in his left knee Thursday morning and will be out for a few days.

TC

[>TC<]

Aaron Elling and Paul Edinger continue to get plenty of work as they compete for the kicking job. There is no question Elling has the stronger leg; if he can prove that he can be depended on for field-goals the job should be his.


TC

[>TC<]

Burleson’s quietly showing signs of a No. 1 receiver. (No, he’s not cussing out the media; he’s making catches, including a nice grab and run for a TD in the first session of team drills).

TC

[>TC<]

North Dakota native Jim Kleinsasser — who, pound-for-pound, probably one of the strongest guys on this football team — is eager to play after sitting nearly all of last year out because of a knee injury.

“I feel great,” Kleinsasser said this morning after practice. “I feel really close to being back to where I was. It’s only going to get better. It’s just gaining confidence, knowing that I can have the confidence that I can plant on that foot.”

Kleinsasser said that he just watches the knee for swelling, but is playing as hard as he can.

“It’s just a matter of getting back into football shape, going through two-a-days,” he said.

Kleinsasser said the mental recovery from his injury was just as important as the physical recovery.

“The passion gets you through everything,” Kleinsasser said. “If you want to play, and you get it taken away from you like this, you realize what football means to you. And the biggest thing that gets you through is that passion.

“I’m just ready to get out and play some football — I don’t care in what capacity it is. I just want to get out, hit some people and catch some balls.”

TC

[Timberwolf]

Aaron Elling and Paul Edinger continue to get plenty of work as they compete for the kicking job. There is no question Elling has the stronger leg; if he can prove that he can be depended on for field-goals the job should be his.


TC

I have more faith in Edinger than Elling when it comes to kicking a FG. I am sure Tice feels the same way.

[Durango53]

I dont know Timber I have heard Tice would like Elling to prove he can do it.

Go ELLING!!!!!!! ;)

Sucks that some guys are getting hurt but it is nice to see some depth this year.....

[Timberwolf]

I am sure Tice wants to see him succeed, but it does not mean he have faith in him. I just hope someone gets it done in kicking the FG.

[>TC<]

Vikings receiver Travis Taylor is trying to revive a once promising career after moving over to Minnesota from Baltimore. Once the 10th pick for the Ravens, Taylor has battled injuries for his first four years in the league. Healthy once again, Taylor is making a believer out of coach Mike Tice. “Taylor gives us a player with a tremendous amount of potential and the ability to be a game-breaker,” added Tice.


TC

[Durango53]

Taylor is I feel going to be a great WR for the Vikings this year.

[>TC<]

McKinnie ready to join the elite

JON KRAWCZYNSKI

Associated Press

MANKATO, Minn. - Bryant McKinnie is an enormous man.

At 6-foot-8, 335 pounds, McKinnie's silhouette can engulf even the biggest of his peers. Yet his impact on the game in his first three years in the league has not matched his considerable size.

The No. 7 overall pick in 2002 has started 39 straight games since ending his holdout midway through his rookie season, but he has yet to develop into the overpowering force he was in college.

McKinnie expects the disappointment to end this season.

"I'm feeling confident, feeling a lot stronger," McKinnie said. "My awareness is getting better and I have a feel for (the game)."

The Vikings drafted McKinnie with the idea of plugging him in at left tackle for the next 10 years, hoping he'd become the Vikings' latest perennial Pro Bowl offensive lineman, joining the likes of Matt Birk, Randall McDaniel, Jeff Christy, Ron Yary and Gary Zimmerman.

But his long holdout severely stunted his development. McKinnie never gave up a sack while in college at Miami, but it didn't take long for that remarkable streak to come to an end in the pros.

McKinnie was inserted into the starting lineup one week after signing, and immediately found out that life in the NFL was different.

McKinnie wasn't in Miami anymore.

Part of the problem was that he was SO dominant in college that he grew lazy, taking things for granted that things would come just as easily in the pros.

"When I got to a game (in college), the guys I played against in practice were so much faster than the ones I played in the games," McKinnie said. "I developed bad habits."

And once he arrived in the NFL, he came to a team that desperately needed him right away. He had no training camp to get acclimated and no veteran leader at his position to serve as a mentor.

Looking back, McKinnie wouldn't have it any other way.

"I prefer the route I took," McKinnie said. "I took the heat and learned everything on my own. Now I understand everything better."

Including how to play on the road. In his first years, particularly last season, McKinnie's biggest struggles came on the road.

Indianapolis Colts end Dwight Freeney and Green Bay end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila torched McKinnie in back-to-back November road losses, blazing past him time after time to pressure or sack Culpepper.

The crowd noise flustered him, and he never got in a rhythm working with two different centers in Birk and Cory Withrow.

"That is probably something I needed to work on," McKinnie said. "We had two different centers in and out and they have different styles with the silent count. That was hard for me to get adjusted to."

Culpepper said he thought McKinnie just needed to get meaner. That's hard to believe when talking about a guy who once knocked professional boxer Shannon Briggs out with one punch outside a Miami night club, but that was the case.

Culpepper said. "He really has started to show that he wants it."

Sometime last year, things started coming together for him.

"A light bulb went off," McKinnie said. "I said, 'I think I'm starting to get everything together.' It was all starting to come a little easier."

He finished the season strong with solid playoff performances against Green Bay and Philadelphia - on the road.

"Probably his best two road games of his career," coach Mike Tice said. "I think he just settled down. He was getting himself in a funk with the crowd noise. ... He's worked real hard on it and he's gotten better at it."

McKinnie is determined to show that he's gotten better in all phases of his game - from playing on the road to pass blocking to opening holes in the running game.

He's solicited the advice of Vikings defensive ends Darrion Scott and Lance Johnstone to perfect his craft.

The sky is the limit for him, Culpepper said.

"With his athleticism and foot quickness, to be that big," Culpepper said. "When he makes his mind up to go, he's as good as anybody."


TC

[>TC<]

In the first "Live Thud" scrimmage of Vikings training camp, the offense came out with a quick tempo and took an early lead, but the defense started to come together after an early deficit and showed fans signs of what they were looking for.

Through two series, scoring drives of 10 and 15 plays, the Minnesota Vikings offense was dominating the first training-camp scrimmage at Blakeslee Stadium in Mankato.

But from that point, the revamped defense started to provide hope for the 6,000 or so fans in the stands.

"I think we settled down, especially the younger players," defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell said. "For some reason, we were kind of nervous, the first time under the lights. But it was just practice.

"I thought our execution was pretty good, the new players showed up and made some plays."

Though the offense won the scrimmage on the final play, a 3-yard touchdown pass from Daunte Culpepper to Travis Taylor , new middle linebacker Sam Cowart felt pretty good about the defense's effort.

"The offense came out with a quick tempo, and they had the advantage," he said. "But we fought back and did pretty well.

"You always want to win, but in the end, if the Purple team wins, I'm all for it."

Without making any spectacular plays, the defense controlled seven of the final nine series, making six sacks. Ralph Brown dropped a certain interception, and there were some other nice pass breakups.

"The defense should have the potential to dominate," safety Darren Sharper said. "We're starting to come together, and we'll get better. You want to win, but the crowd wants to see the offense win."

Culpepper scored on a 4-yard run, and rookie running back Ciatrick Fason had a 3-yard touchdown run. Brad Johnson tossed a 31-yard touchdown pass to Taylor, the first of two TDs for the new Vikings receiver.

Aaron Elling was 2 of 2 on PAT kicks, and he made a 43-yard field goal. Paul Edinger was 1 of 1 on PATs and came up short on a 54-yard field goal. Darren Bennett hit a 66-yard punt.

"Focus and intensity were there, with the defense hanging in there to make it a game," coach Mike Tice said. "I think our defense still has a ways to go."


TC

[>TC<]

SUNDAY NOTES
* The Mike Tice Kreskin moment of training camp came this weekend when he predicted Michael Bennett would rush for 1,600 yards this year. Keep in mind that he predicted 1,300 yards for Bennett on draft weekend of 2003 -- and he finished well short of those lofty expectations.
* Tice's admiration of Bennett might be somewhat misplaced. It should be bad enough that Bennett has had five or more carries in 16 of the Vikings last 32 games, but even more troubling is that the team is 5-11 in the games in which Bennett has been a factor and 12-4 in those he hasn't.
* One of the hot training camp battles to keep an eye on the next few weeks is at wide receiver, where Travis Taylor is continuing to make a case for himself to be the starter instead of Marcus Robinson .
* As the standoff between the Vikings and the agent for Erasmus James continues, word is that the two sides haven't had face-to-face discussions since camp opened. A candlelight vigil continues.


TC

[>TC<]

As Vikings fans are well aware, the defense in 2005 for the Vikings is going to considerably different than what we've seen in previous years. But the stamp of the defense should more accurately be placed at the doorstep of DC Ted Cottrell.

When Ted Cottrell came to the Vikings two years ago after a philosophical falling out with Herm Edwards of the Jets, he was given the task of rebuilding a defense that had been mired near the bottom of the NFL for five years.

With the shockingly open purse strings of the Vikings this off-season, Cottrell's job has been made considerably easier. Several players who were full- or part-time starters last year are now backups -- giving the Vikings more defensive depth than they have seen in a decade.

But, with the Vikings coaching staff effectively playing in a contract year, 2005 is a make-or-break season for a lot of people. And if the Vikings are to succeed and remain intact as an organization, the defense will have to step up in a big way.

To that end, Cottrell has been given considerable latitude in having his recommendations for players to fit his defense not only listened to by the top brass, but acted on. Winfield, Cowart, and Pat Williams were all brought in.

If the Vikings are to succeed defensively this year, there can't be an excuse that Cottrell didn't get the players to make his system work. He now has former players as starters at all three levels of the defense and arguably the most important three -- shutdown cornerback, middle linebacker and run-stuffing DT.

The pieces have been put in place. A lot of jobs are riding on this season. Whether he succeeds or goes down in flames, Cottrell is going to do it swinging -- and with a trio of key components that are truly "his guys."


TC

[>TC<]

-- CB Fred Smoot, who missed the first week of training camp because of a strained neck muscle. Barring a setback, Smoot will begin practicing Monday. His game debut should come Aug. 19 against the New York Jets.

• TE Richard Angulo (strained left shoulder) should return Monday.

• C Matt Birk (hip) is on the physically unable to perform list and should return around Aug. 15.

• WR Kelly Campbell (strained right quadriceps) sat out both practices but should return next week.

• S Dustin Fox (fractured left arm) is out three to five weeks.

• CB Ken Irvin (strained right shoulder) did not practice and is day-to-day.

• C Kyle Schmitt (sprained left knee) will miss about two weeks.

• CB Fred Smoot (strained neck) should be activated Monday from the PUP.

• RB Butchie Wallace (tight right achilles) missed both practices and is day-to-day.

• LB Grant Wiley (right shoulder) is day-to-day.


TC

[>TC<]

Mewelde Moore has pulled even and perhaps moved ahead of rookie Troy Williamson for the primary returner spot. Williamson is faster than Moore but is less surehanded.

New Drill
Vikings receivers must make the most out of every opportunity. With that in mind, new receivers coach Wes Chandler put his group through what he calls a "Bad Surface" drill. A receiver lines up about 10 feet from the line of scrimmage and lies flat on his back, feet facing the quarterback. As soon as the ball is released, the receiver is expected to jump to his feet and make the catch. "There are lots of times in a game when a receiver will fall, but the quarterback is still live," Chandler said. "That means he's going to throw it. So you have to be able to get up and make the play in that situation. I've seen that happen a lot."


TC

[Durango53]

Great stuff Mark!!!!!!!

I have said I think Taylor is going to be the guy that people didnt think would do anything that steps up huge this year.

He has the talent being the 10 draft pick but you play in a system that cant get the WR the ball you dont get a chance to shine that much. Even when you look at his stats for the amount he has had the ball he has done good things but just never got that chance because of playing with bad QB's.

Super excited about this season and cant wait to kick it off!!!!!

[Durango53]

Daunte Culpepper has become one of the NFL's best quarterbacks, and the Minnesota Vikings wanted to make sure he's getting paid like one, too.

Culpepper and the Vikings reached an agreement on Sunday to restructure his contract, giving the three-time Pro Bowl player an unspecified raise.

Rob Brzezinski, the team's vice president for football operations, said the new deal - given the blessing of new owner Zygi Wilf - has been in the works since January.

Brzezinski didn't divulge financial terms, other than to confirm that Culpepper was getting an increase from the framework of the $102 million, 10-year contract extension he signed in May 2003. Culpepper's agent, Mason Ashe, also declined to specify - but said that the raise was in the form of both bonuses and annual salary increases.

"He's a premier player in this league, and we felt like his contract needed an adjustment to reflect that," Brzezinski said. "Zygi stepped up, like he's done with everything else."

Great move Vikings!!!!! Team leader and now he has to show it and I dont think he is going to let us down. After Moss went down last year he stepped up and still would have been MVP if Manning didnt throw all those TD's.

[Timberwolf]

Great gesture by Zygi Wilf. He did not have to do it. The fact that Zygi took the intiative to give Daunte a big reason shows you what type of guy Zygi is as a owner and a person.

[LesPaul]

Some of my family got to go to a Vikings training camp last week and got some awesome pictures and one of my cousins got Chuck Foreman's autograph.

I can't wait to see the pics, if I ever do.

I heard that Travis Taylor is rocking and was making numerous sideline snags much like Carter did in the day and the defense is for real.

I also heard that TE Richard Angulo was looking impressive but hurt his shoulder, I just saw in TC's post that it must not have been serious.

[Durango53]

The Minnesota Vikings reached a contract agreement Monday with holdout rookie defensive end Erasmus James, a first-round draft pick from Wisconsin.

James was on his way to Minnesota on Monday evening. The 18th overall selection, James was expected to be on the field for practice Tuesday after missing the first 10 days of training camp.

[Durango53]

TC has been saying also that Taylor is kicking butt. That is great to see. How great would that be if he could hlep carry this team!!!

But the more I have been reading up on him the more I loved the signing and think he is going to do a great job!!!!

[>TC<]

Did you guys hear that Erasmus James agreed to a contract tonight? He'll be on the field tomorrow.


TC

[Durango53]

Jinks!!!!! :D

[>TC<]

One minute, one minute, scooped by one minute


TC

[>TC<]

"He's excited, and he's ready to go," said Vance Malinovic, one of James' agents.

James will receive a five-year package, Malinovic said, declining to reveal specific financial terms. The two sides were working hard to finalize particulars of the deal Monday night so James could participate in Tuesday's practice.

TC

[>TC<]

Morning showers forced the Vikings to juggle their practice schedule. Instead of working out in pads from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and then doing an hour of special teams and position work in the early evening, the schedule was flipped. The special teams period was moved to 12:30 p.m. — the rain had stopped by then — and there will be a practice in pads from 4:30 p.m. to 7.

That will be the most interesting one of the day as the Vikings go through two intense days of workouts in preparation for Friday night’s preseason opener against Kansas City. Coach Mike Tice made it clear that the evening practice won’t be shortened or called off, even if the rain resumes. Tice said he would take the session under the lights of the main field here if rain forces his team to wait. Cornerback Fred Smoot (neck) is off the physically-unable-to-perform list and will make his camp debut this evening.

As for the first practice, the Vikings continued to devote time working on every last detail of special teams. This included a period near the end dedicated to onside kicks and how the “hands team” should go about making sure it recovers the ball.

TC

[Durango53]

I can now sleep!!!!!!!! I have been wanting to scoop you for about a week now on this Mark so now it is bed time!!!!!!!!


:D :D :D :D :D

I bet you aint getting much sleep? Everything going good for the big day Wed?

[>TC<]

A final note. Tice raved about the play of linebacker Keith Newman and it appears Newman is pushing newcomer Napoleon Harris for the strong-side job.


TC

[Durango53]

WOW I heard that Newman is doing good but to be pushing the guy that was traded for Moss!!!!! WOW!!!!

[>TC<]

Cancel the scheduled camp competition at defensive end and “Will” linebacker. Head coach Mike Tice declared both races no contests after one week of camp, ruling WLB Dontarrious Thomas has buried Raonall Smith and that rookie DRE Erasmus James essentially disqualified himself by staging a contract holdout. Lance Johnstone, who recorded 11 sacks in 2004, and Darrion Scott could rotate at right defensive end. Johnstone is well ahead of James as the team’s nickel pass rusher and has an ongoing competition with DT Kevin Williams. Williams had 11 1/2 sacks last year and leads a defensive line that DL coach Brian Baker said has a goal of three sacks per game.

TC

[Durango53]

I thought that would happen with James. And those 11 1/2 sacks from Johnstone last year is just to hard to put on the sideline......

[LesPaul]

Thats too bad for Erasmus James being taken out of the competition, especially if it was more his agents fault for the late signing but hopefully he will get in the practice and reps and be able to put some time on the field.

Glad to see him signed!

[LesPaul]

I thought that would happen with James. And those 11 1/2 sacks from Johnstone last year is just to hard to put on the sideline......
Plus that competition that Johnstone and Williams have that sounds like it will be in full force again this season... It will be fun watching that develop as the story made it sound like both are pushing eachother real hard and they feed off of it.

[Durango53]

I am excited!!!!!!!!

[>TC<]

The Vikings were counting on James to contribute immediately as the rush end in their nickel package, but Minnesota head coach Mike Tice said last week that James' holdout might change that.

"Now he's put himself in a hole," Tice said. "It's going to be tough for me to see him do anything that will be counted on early on these next couple weeks. Now if he comes in and in that first preseason game has five sacks, he'll be starting."

Darrion Scott is the current starter at right end and is considered more of an every-down player, at least initially. James will compete with Scott and pass-rush specialist Lance Johnstone for playing time. On obvious passing downs, James and Johnstone could be the ends, with either Scott or Kenechi Udeze moving inside, flanking Kevin Williams.


TC

[>TC<]

Thanks for asking.

We are keyed - it's a go for Wednesday. We check in tomorrow night at 6 PM.

With any luck, we'll all be home on Friday!

TC

[Durango53]

Wish you all the best of luck!!! Prayer's are with you!!!!!

[>TC<]

Thanks, we can always use the prayers. It's getting to be nervous time. Neither of us slept real well last night. It's hard to believe that tomorrow is finally going to be the day.

She's ready though - I bought her a little Vikings football, a pink Twins outfit, a Twins hat, a glove, a Gophers outfit, etc. Gotta start her right!

I'll keep you posted.

TC

[Durango53]

Go Vikings!!!!!!!!

[Durango53]

Taylor was expected to spend this season operating out of the slot as the No. 3 wide receiver, but after watching him catch a team-high seven passes for 93 yards and two touchdowns in Friday night's intrasquad scrimmage, coach Mike Tice said the new guy is pushing Robinson for the starting outside job.

"It's very competitive there," Chandler said. "One of the reasons we brought Travis in here is we knew he could do some things for us inside, but he can also play outside. It all goes back to he didn't have anybody to get him the ball in Baltimore. He's probably caught more balls here than he ever thought about seeing there."

For the record, Taylor, 27, said he's equally comfortable at either position. He's just eager to get his career back on track after five largely unproductive seasons in one of the NFL's worst passing offenses.

Taken with the 10th overall selection in the 2000 NFL draft out of Florida, Taylor went to the Super Bowl his rookie season but sat out that game and the 10 games before it because of a fractured clavicle. He enjoyed his best year in 2002, when he caught 61 passes for 869 yards and six touchdowns, but he had just 39 and 34 receptions his past two seasons as Ravens coach Brian Billick failed to get the passing game going.

I think there is going to be enough balls to go around. I hope Taylor can stay healthy and I think he will have some new highs for his best season... :thumbsup:

[Durango53]

Tuesday's camp highlights

HIGHLIGHT PLAY

Tight end Jermaine Wiggins made back-to-back first-down catches of 21 and 13 yards during the two-minute offense portion of the Vikings' night scrimmage.

WHO'S HOT

Defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell stopped a drill early in the morning practice and called all of his players together. He then unleashed a series of insights and observations — certainly not suitable for a family newspaper — and ordered the players to repeat the drill.

WHO'S NOT

Not much happened in the morning practice, but wide receiver Marcus Robinson, right, did drop a catchable pass. In the evening, backup center Anthony Herrera sailed a third-down snap over quarterback Brad Johnson's head during the two-minute drill portion of the scrimmage.

WHO'S HURT

TE Richard Angulo (left shoulder) and C Kyle Schmitt (left knee) remain out. WR Kelly Campbell returned to practice, as did CBs Ken Irvin and Brian Williams. CB Fred Smoot left the scrimmage early after being kicked in the calf. Trainer Chuck Barta had no immediate report on the severity of the injury. RB Ciatrick Fason suffered a lower-back bruise or strain.

THEY SAID IT

"It seems like it's just easy to run up the field (and attack the quarterback). But it's not that easy. That's why it's hard to find people to do it."

Defensive end Lance Johnstone on James' arrival after missing practices.

[Durango53]

E.J. Henderson - #56 - Linebacker - 6'1" - 245lbs
Wed Aug 10 2005 - The Vikings plan to start E.J. Henderson at weakside linebacker against the Chiefs Friday. Henderson lost his job as the starting middle linebacker when the team signed veteran Sam Cowart this offseason. "We'll see how he adapts, and if he does a good job at the Will linebacker position, we'll keep him there," defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell said. "But we're trying to find him a spot because he's having a good, strong camp and we're very pleased with the way Sam Cowart is playing."

Glad to see they are starting to look in at what I am saying..... :D

[Durango53]

Second round pick Marcus Johnson is working as a backup at right tackle. It appears his battle with Adam Goldberg at left guard ended before it had a chance to get going. The Vikings want Johnson to focus on right tackle because starter Mike Rosenthal is coming off a broken foot, and last year's backup, Nat Dorsey, is out of shape.

The way Adam played last year I thought it would have been dumb to put a rookie in there to replace him. Here is to many years of this old Poke being a great Viking lineman!!!!

Fourth-rounder Ciatrick Fason, a running back from Florida, is with the third string. He fumbled during a goal-line drill...

I dont think we will see to much of Fason this year unless Bennett or Willaims gets hurt.....

Coaches are easing WR Troy Williamson (seventh overall) in slowly. He missed the first four days of practices because he was unsigned. He spent the first day of practice running routes on the sideline and catching passes from receivers coach Wes Chandler. Williamson is running with the second team. He has dropped a few passes, but also caught a nice 32-yard touchdown from Brad Johnson. Right now, Williamson is listed as the No. 5 receiver, although he might run No. 4 until Kelly Campbell recovers from a quadriceps injury...

With the way Taylor is playing and coming out the Vikings might not even need to much of Williamson this year. But still I want to see him on the field and using that speed to open up the middle.
I am excited though to see Cullpepper being able to pass the ball this year to the guys....

[Durango53]

After watching an NFL Network special on Jerry Rice's hill training regimen this offseason, Bennett decided to start running Buck Hill, a ski slope in a suburb of the Twin Cities. Mewelde Moore, Bennett's teammate, was impressed. "I've seen that hill," Moore said. "I was thinking, 'Man, if you can get on that thing, you could really blow chunks.'"

Another reason I think Bennett will have a good season also...

[Durango53]

It was only a no-pads practice, but Matt Birk had waited long enough. Ten weeks after undergoing surgery to repair an injured hip, the Vikings' Pro Bowl center was back on the practice field Wednesday afternoon after being activated off the physically unable to perform list. "It'll feel good just to be out there again in the huddle," Birk said before practice. "It's been a long road to recovery, so this is what I've been working toward the last six, seven months."

[LesPaul]

I was reading through an interview with Ted Cottrell and found these Q & A's amusing:


Q: Do you care about winning the preseason game?
A: Yes, we do. We want to do a good job. Mike's (Tice) explained that to them. We want to go out and play well. It's very important to our guys to set the tone for the rest of the season. We still want to go out and do well. We don't want to go out and just lay down. For one thing, if they're not going full speed and treat this thing so-so, you're going to leave yourself or set yourself up with some injuries. Because you're not going full speed. You're going at one speed and your opponents are going at another. You put yourself into a bad situation. So you better be ready to play. Because there's still going to be some hungry guys out there. Especially in the second half. You've got guys out there trying to make the team and make a living for themselves. If you're not ready, that's not a good place to be. So guys have some bills, some car notes, house payments, angry wives, angry girlfriends, all these bills coming in. They've got to get those creditors off their butts. They're going to be pissed off and mad.


Q: What did you think of some of those haircuts out there?
A: Those were pretty good. It's all in fun. They get a kick out of it. They just do it every year. This is the first team I've been with that they've done that. It's a tradition. Do it now and get it over with. Shave the eyebrows and go on. Hopefully they'll grow back.


:D

[PissedPrincess]

Just checking in on my homie Wiggins. How is he?

[Durango53]

PP he is kicking butt!!!!!!!

Tight end Jermaine Wiggins made back-to-back first-down catches of 21 and 13 yards during the two-minute offense portion of the Vikings' night scrimmage.

Look for him to have a HUGE year this year with Kline back and with the Vikings running a ton of double TE sets. I expect him to have a year just like last year where he is the garbage man again.... What they called him last year because when Culpepper had no where to go he always had Wiggins.

I know the Vikings are happy to have him back and was there main resigning of the season.

[Durango53]

Thursday's camp highlights

HIGHLIGHT PLAY

During the team's more-cerebral, less-physical morning practice in shorts, coach Mike Tice broke up a pass toward the end of practice. Tice, though, did not get a good jump on the ball and did not make the interception.

WHO'S HOT

E.J. Henderson made the move of the week, going from backup middle linebacker to starting weak-side linebacker. He has been widely praised for not pouting when the team traded for veteran Sam Cowart. Now, Henderson has a chance to show why he won the Butkus award, given to the nation's top linebacker, while at Maryland.

WHO'S NOT

Top draft pick Troy Williamson continues to walk around with a boot on his right foot — which raises doubt about his ability to play tonight against the Kansas City Chiefs. Williamson, who has a soft-tissue injury in his right ankle, might warm up if he's lucky.

WHO'S HURT

Williamson. TE Richard Angulo remains out with a left shoulder separation. C Kyle Schmitt is out because of a sprained left knee. WR Kelly Campbell is still out with a quadriceps injury. CB Ken Irvin practiced the past two days but is nursing a right shoulder strain.

THEY SAID IT

"I think he will provide us with some good range if they try to go deep. And plus he's got those hands; he can catch the ball. Which, like I said the other day, we've got some defensive backs with some Roberto Duran hands, so we're trying to get that situation straightened out."

Defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell, on the contribution of receiver-turned-safety Ben Nelson, above.

[Durango53]

For PP on Wiggins........

Jermaine Wiggins played in two Super Bowls, won one and is coming off a season in which he caught the second-most passes of any tight end in Vikings history.

But the body of his work sometimes gets lost in all the talk about his body.

To put it kindly, the 6-foot-2, 260-pound Wiggins doesn't look like a prototypical NFL tight end. To put it unkindly... well, let's just say some of his teammates can be a little rough.

"They say he looks like the Krusty the Clown character from 'The Simpsons,' " running back Michael Bennett said. "Another one is the 'Family Guy.' He definitely does take people by surprise. Everybody says, 'He's a tight end? He looks like an old man in football pads.' But when he gets out on the field, he's another person."

Last season, that person was good enough to catch a team-high 71 passes, despite missing two games because of a broken hand. This season, on a Vikings offense looking to replace Randy Moss' 82 catches a season, Wiggins believes he can do even more.

CATCHING ON

Last season was one for the books for Jermaine Wiggins, who caught the second-most passes by a tight end in Vikings history

"I don't see why not," he said. "We lost a great weapon, but I was able to go out there when Randy wasn't there and make plays. I feel I can have an even bigger role. I accept that challenge. With Randy not being here, I want to carry more of the load."

The coaches have said no one receiver can replace Moss' production but that by spreading the ball among two or three players, they can achieve the same results. That means the offense could be leaning even more this season on Wiggins, who might not look like much but has a knack for getting open and catches everything.

"I love Wiggins, man," quarterback Daunte Culpepper said. "He's the type of player you need to win a championship. He is a guy that basically, whenever his number is called, he's ready to make a play. He is not afraid to talk about it, obviously, and the thing is he's ready to back it up."

Wiggins, 30, comes by that naturally, which is how he has made it to the sixth season of an improbable NFL career that began when he made the New York Jets' practice squad in 1999 as an undrafted free agent out of Georgia.

Tell him he doesn't have a prototypical tight end body, and he'll rattle off the names of Todd Christensen and Keith Byars, smaller players who enjoyed many productive seasons at the position.

Tell him he can't do something, and Wiggins will bust his hump to prove you wrong.

"That's the way I was brought up," he said. "I'm not going to let anybody tell me what I can't do. I guess that's the way a lot of people are from my neighborhood in Boston. We don't care what people think."

Considering his humble NFL beginnings, Wiggins' resume includes some notable accomplishments.

•In 2001 with New England, he set a team playoff record with 10 catches in a 16-13 overtime victory over Oakland that helped propel the Patriots to Super Bowl XXXVI title.

• In 2003, he started 11 regular-season games and three playoff games for Carolina, which lost to his former New England team in Super Bowl XXXVIII.

Even so, each team let him walk the following season. Why?

"Because I'm not a top-three-round draft pick," Wiggins said. "I'm an undrafted rookie free agent. I don't run 4.6. I'm not 6-5. But every time I've had the opportunity to step on the field to make a play, I've done it. There are a lot of first-, second- and third-round guys who have had a lot more opportunities, and they're not in the league anymore."

Briefly this offseason, it appeared Wiggins might be leaving Minnesota as well. But after a few weeks on the free-agent market, he wound up signing a five-year, $7.3 million contract with the Vikings.

Take it from him, this would have been a difficult time to leave.

"To me, it's not so much of a money issue," Wiggins said. "I know I'll never break the bank. I just want to have the opportunity to go out there and play in Super Bowls. I know we've got the team to win the whole thing."

Vikings coach Mike Tice, who played 14 seasons as an NFL tight end, knows a little bit about the position and he sees a lot to like in Wiggins, bad body and all.

"He's worked tremendously hard," Tice said. "His attitude is fantastic. He's got tremendous leadership. He brings a lot to the table."

As for the teasing, Wiggins said it doesn't bother him and that it's all in good fun.

"I actually think I have a good physique," he said. "I don't have the worst body on the team. I know Sean Berton's is worse than mine."

Wiggins became a father for the third time last week when son Jaden joined a brood that included big sister Takida, 7, and brother Jermaine Jr., 2.

Asked if the boys have the classic Wiggins body, Dad just smiled.

"I know they've got the Wiggins heart," he said. "No matter how their bodies turn out, they're going to be all right."

[PissedPrincess]

I love Wiggy. Great story DD. :thumbsup:

[Durango53]

Thanks PP. I hope you get to watch him in the Super Bowl this year!!!!!! :D

[Durango53]

Chiefs at Vikings preview

When: 7 tonight

Where: Metrodome

TV: KTSP, Channel 5

Preseason history: This is the third time the teams have met since 1998, with each winning one game.

Notable: Most of the Vikings' starters are expected to play 12 to 15 plays.

Worth watching

1. Aaron Elling vs. Paul Edinger. The two kickers have been in a dead heat. But one could really stand out after tonight.

2. E.J. Henderson vs. Dontarrious Thomas. Thomas was drawing raves from the coaches. But Henderson was said to be playing even better. How will Henderson handle the new linebacker position?

3. The Vikings' offensive line. Coach Mike Tice criticized the unit for a lack of consistency. Clearly, the Vikings' defensive line is better than in years past. But the offensive line has a chance to show it is still a stout unit.

[LesPaul]

Anyone know if the Vikings-Chiefs game will be televisied tonight?

[Durango53]

Local is what I am reading.

Lucky thing I dont know how Mellisa would react if I told her we had to stay home tonight and watch the Vikings.....

We are to go out with some of her friends to the Dukes of Hazzard movie tonight..... :D

[Durango53]

Five things to know


Camp tour: Vikings

MANKATO, Minn. -- Observations from the Vikings camp:

NFL Teams 1. Center Matt Birk will return to practice next week for the first time this year. Birk, who missed four games last season, has been through four surgeries in the past year -- including one in June to patch a torn labrum in his hip -- but says he feels better now than he has in the past 12 months. Birk's place has been taken by backup Cory Withrow.

NFL Teams 2. The biggest surprise of training camp has been wide receiver Travis Taylor. Yes, that Travis Taylor. Once a first-round draft pick of the Ravens, Taylor seems to have found a home here -- making such a big impression that the Vikings aren't sure if they'll use him as a slot receiver or have him challenge starter Marcus Robinson on the outside.

NFL Teams 3. Forget about Randy Moss. The Vikings are deep at wide receiver, with first-round pick Troy Williamson set for a slow and gradual education. For now, Nate Burleson and Robinson are the starters, with Taylor, Williamson and Kelly Campbell coming off the bench. Keenan Howry, who can return kicks, is the sixth receiver. "We're watching film the other night, one of our new coaches said, 'Boy, Keenan Howry's not a bad 5 (fifth receiver),'" coach Mike Tice said. "And I said, 'Coach, he's a 6.' That's a pretty good compliment. So, yes, we are deep."

NFL Teams 4. One of the tightest battles is at kicker, where former Chicago specialist Paul Edinger takes on veteran Aaron Elling. The early money is on Elling, whose season ended last November when he broke his ankle. The Vikings wish Elling's accuracy were better (he's 19-of-27), but they like his strong leg for kickoffs. Edinger is coming off a poor year, and he must improve his kickoffs. But that's what preseason games are all about, with a decision likely to be based on those results.

NFL Teams 5. So far so good for running back Michael Bennett. With Onterrio Smith suspended for the season, Bennett is the starter -- and the club hopes he can avoid the injuries that limited him to 14 starts the past two years. Moe Williams, the team's short-yardage specialist, seems to have the inside track over Mewelde Moore for the backup job -- largely because he's dependable and is solid on blitz pickups. Vikings:

[Durango53]

Out of Nowhere Man
DE Darrion Scott

Defensive end Darrion Scott is not exactly what you'd call a household name, but he might be after this season. He's pushing hard for a starting job and making an impression while doing it. The second-year pro is tall (6-feet-3) and quick for his size. Though he produced his first career sack in the playoffs vs. Brett Favre and the Packers last season, he's more of a run stopper. He was expected to share the defensive right end position with first-round draft choice Erasmus James -- and he just might. But he has the inside position now that James missed part of training camp.

[Durango53]

Nate Burleson, 33 Yd pass from Daunte Culpepper (Aaron Elling kick is good), 11:52. Drive: 6 plays, 65 yards in 3:08.

[Durango53]

HUGE run for Morre!!!!!!!!!

WHAT A JOB BY THAT O-LINE!!!!!!!!!

[Durango53]

Culpepper looked sharp going 5/6 for 84 yards.
Brad Johnson looked good to backing up with 9/12.

Moore looked outstanding!!!!! 5 rushs for 62 yards. Fason looked good also with 7 runs for 55 yards although he was running with mostly backups and guys not going to make the team.

Hoag had a little game there!!! Taylor looks to impress still in this game. I think he is going to be the number 2 guy.

The O-line looked good from what I saw. (or heard)

And for the defense to hold the chiefs to 16 points is outstanding. With the only KC td coming vs the scrubs...

This team is far better than last year. D-line Huge upgrade to take a ton of pressure off the linebackers. Linebackers are upgraded just by getting experice for the young guys last year and guys in to push them and with Henderson and Thomas looking a ton better and the coachs raving about them it should be fun. And with the upgrades at the DB it to will take pressure off the linebackers and so this defense will be fun to watch!!!

And with getting rid of Moss and letting Culpepper run this team the Vikings are a ton stronger than last year!!!!

I am excited about this year. T.O. or not I think the Vikings are the team to beat in the NFC.......

[LesPaul]

I got to watch the 2nd and 3rd quarters :D

[Timberwolf]

Great game all around last night by the Purple.

The offense is in midseason form as Daunte and Brad was throwing bullets. Nate had a great game. It was nice to see Mwelde do well.

Defense was solid overall. I liked how KC was limited to FGs instead of TDs. Chiefs offense is like a machine so to limit them to FGs is not bad.

Specials teams was fine. Nice to see Aaron and Fred do well.

Mike Tice said it best about winning and no injuries in the preseason is a best combination.

[Pickles84]

Question for TC. Do you think Fason will play a big role in the running game when all is said and done? I know Tice is banking on Mwelede to have a big year, but that's no guarantee. He certainly hit the wall after the Giants game last year. I felt the Whizzinator was going to be the starting runningback, but he blew that opportunity on his stupidity. Can't trust Bennett to be healthy so I am hoping Fason can be the guy when all is said and done. I know it's too much pressure on a rookie, but.


I know you wanted >TC< to answer your question, but I was hoping I could give my opinion.
Ciatrick Fason is a very good running back. He led the SEC last season in rushing yards. And if you can lead the SEC in rushing yards, you have to be good. I don't see Fason getting much playing time this season unless Bennett goes down with and injury. However, I know I am going out on a limb here, but I think that Fason will be the next Robert Smith of the Vikings. He's not quite as fast as Smith, but has a lot of agility and is very quick.

[Durango53]

Game notes


FRIDAY'S HIGHLIGHT

Vikings running back Mewelde Moore slipped past a defender behind the line of scrimmage, then raced down the left sideline for a 50-yard gain. Moore did not give up, trying to fend off Chiefs free safety Greg Wesley with a stiff-arm. But Moore was called for face masking.

WHO'S HOT

Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper completed his first five passes for 84 yards, including a 33-yard touchdown to receiver Nate Burleson. Culpepper showcased his shiftiness, avoiding several pass rushers, and he made several nice throws, including one on the run to receiver Travis Taylor for a 17-yard gain.

WHO'S NOT

On his first punt of the preseason, veteran Darren Bennett unleashed … a 29-yarder? To make matters worse, the Vikings were penalized 5 yards for illegal formation. Bennett has looked solid in camp so far. Second-year punter Travis Dorsch had a floater that pinned the Chiefs at their 8-yard line.

WHO'S HURT

WR Troy Williamson (right ankle), C Matt Birk (hip), CB Fred Smoot (neck), S Dustin Fox (elbow), TE Richard Angulo (shoulder) and C Kyle Schmitt (knee) did not dress. WR Kelly Campbell (quadriceps) did not have full equipment on.

The only injuries from the game were to Moore, who got poked in the eye with his helmet, and running back Butchie Wallace, who turned his ankle.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

"My wife picks these out."

Vikings chairman Zygi Wilf, when asked about his stylish purple tie.

ROOKIE HIGHLIGHT

Fourth-round pick Ciatrick Fason showed great footwork and speed on a 25-yard run in the second quarter that set up a 40-yard field goal by Aaron Elling. Fason ran off left tackle and sprinted down the left sideline

Nice to see Fason getting better in this game after some of the coachs said he wasnt grasping things. But also he was playing against KC thrid team.

[Durango53]

Anyone who feared Loney would button down the offense and not throw nearly as often as Linehan had to like what they saw in the Vikings' 27-16 victory Friday night over the Kansas City Chiefs. Loney's offense gained 410 yards, more than half of it through the air.

This is still an offense that will air it out but they must run more and I think Loney and Tice know that......

And you just watch: Former Baltimore Raven Travis Taylor will have more receptions and a bigger impact this season than first-round pick Troy Williamson, who didn't play Friday night because of an ankle injury. Taylor made a nice sideline grab in the opening drive for a 17-yard gain.

I agree

Meantime, that new-look defense stayed intact longer than the offense. It was a good idea. The defense needed the work.

After putting up impressive performances throughout training camp, the defense showed a few warts. There were some missed tackles, some wide-open receivers, some large chunks of yardage allowed.

"I think (the defense) needed to get off blocks better,'' Tice said.

There were a few notable plays. Safety Darren Sharper broke up a pass in the end zone. And Kenechi Udeze slammed Priest Holmes for a 1-yard loss on third and goal from the 1-yard line.

To its credit, despite a few big-yardage plays by the Chiefs, the first-team defense gave up only a field goal in four drives.

That's not too shabby, not for the first exhibition game.

Nice to see Udeze get some good goal line stands and stuff a run. A ton of new guys on the defense so you will see them strugle a bit at the start but I think we will see more of them in the pre season and I think three or four games in the season they should be solid.....

[Durango53]

2005 Schedule
Sep 11 - vs. Tampa Bay, 1:00 PM
Sep 18 - at Cincinnati, 1:00 PM
Sep 25 - vs. New Orleans, 1:00 PM
Oct 2 - at Atlanta, 4:15 PM
Oct 10 - Open
Oct 16 - at Chicago, 1:00 PM
Oct 23 - vs. Green Bay, 1:00 PM
Oct 30 - at Carolina, 1:00 PM
Nov 6 - vs. Detroit, 1:00 PM
Nov 13 - at NY Giants, 1:00 PM
Nov 21 - at Green Bay, 9:00 PM
Nov 27 - vs. Cleveland, 1:00 PM
Dec 4 - at Detroit, 1:00 PM
Dec 11 - vs. St. Louis, 1:00 PM
Dec 18 - vs. Pittsburgh, 1:00 PM
Dec 25 - at Baltimore, 8:30 PM
Jan 1 - vs. Chicago, 1:00 PM

I think the Vikings are going to do well this year. A couple of tough games I would say. The Giants and Steelers stand out to me right away as some tough ones. It will be fun to watch the Vikings play the Falcons with this new defense.

[Timberwolf]

Vikings will have a great year. I am thinking 11 or 12 Ws with this team. Of course, it's hard to guage which team is good or not with parity and all.

Playing the Bears at Soldier Field is always tough along with the Packers at Lambeau Field. Vikings always seem to have problems at outdoors hence why I am always wary of road games.

As for Steve Loney (Vikings offensive coordinator), he called a great game last night. I can't see him messing up with the players he got in his disposal. I had a chance tor read about him in the Strib Friday and he strikes me as a guy that seem intelligent when he was talking about running a game plan on offense. I heard about Loney's work ethic and all I think he could be a head coach one day.

As for Zygi Wilf, this guy just seems intelligent and polished. I see a lot of Robert Kraft in Mr. Wilf. That makes me feel real good. I think he and the rest of the co-owners (Reggie Fowler, Zygi's brother Mark Wilf, Alan Landis, and co) seemed to follow the game very well. They are passionate about the game and they don't seem to have hidden agents unlike that pervious owner/nutjob.

I am so excited for Friday's game against the Jets. Not only will it be live on television, which I can see on CBS Sports, but I want to see how they fare against a very good Jets team. I like to see how Daunte does against a very physical Jets team on the road.

Pickles: Thanks for answering my question on Ciatrick. We will see how he does. I don't trust Bennett for one bit. He probably will get hurt this season. As for Mwelde, who knows. He can be either great or bad. That's the reason why I was asking if Ciatrick can be that guy. It's really dissapointing that Onterrio did what he did this off-season because I was hoping that he would be our primary running back.

[Pickles84]

No problem Timberwolf. And Onterrio Smith probably would be the starting back. Or at least have a lead over Bennett for the starting role. However, there is nothing else to be done with Smith. The Vikings have some good backs. A couple are reliable, a couple are durable, and some are both. So ifBennett goes down with an injury(I hope not), the Vikings have a few more running backs that they can use as a committee. It's worked for them in the past.

As for the schedule, I must say I like it. Yes, there are some tough match-ups in there, but every team has those. The part of the schedule that I'm not liking the most is the consecutive games against the Rams, Steelers, and Ravens. I think those three teams will present the biggest problem. And it's not so much that the Vikes might lose two out of three, it's the fact that the games are very late in the season. As we've seen the last few years, the Vikings like to start the season strong then fade out after midseason.

[Durango53]

http://www.startribune.com/stonline/images/news4/1oline0816.l.jpg

I sight I would bet Culpepper loves to see...... :)

[Durango53]

A noticeably subdued Fred Smoot acknowledged Sunday he is "worried" about the condition of his right knee and said he will undergo more tests today to determine if it is injured worse than originally believed.

"It's very frustrating," the Vikings cornerback said as he walked slowly into Gage Hall at Minnesota State, Mankato. "I am worried about it. ... Right now, they say it is [a bruise]. But I'm going to get it checked out again. I'll find out if something is wrong there."

Athletic trainer Chuck Barta has described the injury, suffered Aug. 9 during an intrasquad scrimmage, as a soft tissue contusion. But Barta said Sunday that similar injuries usually heal faster than Smoot's.

Man I hope Smoot is ok. This could put a throw a wrench in what the Vikings was planing to do....

Tice said there is a "50-50" chance Birk will play Friday against the Jets. Birk participated in individual drills Sunday but was held out of team drills.
Man I dont know if I like this... I know Birk is a warror and wants to get in there for the team but I would hold him out but I am sure he would only play a couple of series...

[Durango53]

Vikings coaches came up with an effective, if slightly demeaning, tool to help offensive lineman use their hands correctly. For most of the afternoon practice, all guards and tackles practiced with elastic bands holding their hands together as if they were handcuffed from the front. "Basically, it makes them hold their hands tight," offensive coordinator/line coach Steve Loney said. "What you don't want them to do is get their hands out wide [where they can be called for holding]."

Great to see the coachs working on something to cut down the dumb peneltys the Vikings have been getting over the last few years... This is a great thing to do that will make them better....

"At least we have air conditioning, so that's nice."

-- Coach Mike Tice on one of the facility upgrades underway at Winter Park. Instead of bringing in portable air conditioners to keep the locker room cool when the roster of 80-plus players returns from training camp this week, the team has replaced the system and installed additional ductwork to accommodate them. The project cost about $100,000.
I still cant belive that that cheap ass Red didnt have Air and brought in portable ones for the locker room. Man I dont know how some people can make money when they are dumb as a brick in common sence.....

[Durango53]

The Vikings have some interesting possibilities at tight end. Jermaine Wiggins is a gifted receiver, despite running like an elephant on roller skates. Kleinsasser makes loud grunting noises and bores huge holes for the running backs.

Put the two of them out there together and opposing defenses may need to call timeout for a Tylenol break.

Coach Mike Tice is thrilled to have Kleinsasser back.

The return of Kleinsasser will help. He'll catch some balls and open some holes. It's not that defensive players can't tackle him or knock him down. They certainly can. They just have to be prepared for the consequences.

Because colliding with a healthy Kleinsasser really, really hurts.

It is going to be fun to have Jimmy back this year!!!!!!

[Durango53]

Sunday's camp highlights

Toward the end of practice, defensive lineman Spencer Johnson hauled in a tipped Brad Johnson pass with his right hand, with an offensive lineman draped over him.

WHO'S HOT

Third-string quarterback Shaun Hill hit receiver Avion Black in stride for a gain of at least 30 yards. Tight end Jeff Dugan caught a pass from Hill while on the ground. While he won't be pushing Johnson for the backup job, Hill clearly has asserted himself over rookie John Bowenkamp of Lakeville for the third quarterback spot.

WHO'S NOT

The Vikings offense struggled in the afternoon practice, as the defense consistently forced them off the field. All-pro defensive tackle Kevin Williams squashed one play inside the 10-yard line by sacking quarterback Daunte Culpepper.

WHO'S HURT

CB Fred Smoot did not practice in the afternoon because of a soft-tissue contusion on his right knee. OG Anthony Herrera has an infection in his leg, and his status is day to day. WR Troy Williamson was limited in practice with an impingement in his right ankle. TE Richard Angulo (shoulder separation) and C Kyle Schmitt (knee) returned to practice. WR Kelly Campbell (quadriceps) remains sidelined.

THEYSAIDIT

"I've got the only whistle. I don't know who you reported to."

Vikings coach Mike Tice, right, to offensive lineman Adam Goldberg. On a short field goal, Goldberg protested when Tice called him for a penalty. But Tice said Goldberg failed to report as an eligible receiver.

This D-line is going to put some pressure on a QB with just the four guys they put out there. And that is exciting in itself because they can change the look up so very much from down to down. And it is all around Kevin Williams.
You can have some great speed out there with Udeze, James, Williams and Johnstone or you can have some big meat out there and move Williams out to end (I know we wont see this to much) but have K. Williams, P, Williams, Martin and Scott out there. But with so much you can do and add speed or add the beef there is a ton out there to scare O-Lines. Big year for K. Willaims with Pat out there this year!!!! :banana:

Good to see Hill coming along and if he is coming good then the Vikings might have a solid guy with a solid arm behind Culpepper next year.

And with Smoot hurt we are still hearing about how the Defense is shutting down the offense. I think that will help this team out a ton also. Going up against one of the best defenses in the league (we hope) so it will make the offense that much sharper....

[Durango53]

When it comes to cornerback trios, Horton still likes the Ravens, who have future hall of famer Deion Sanders in the No. 3 role. Generally speaking, though, he believes the Vikings had the best offseason of any team in the NFL and that Smoot was their most important acquisition.

"I love the Pat Williams signing because he takes pressure off Kevin Williams," Horton said, "but I think Smoot has a bigger impact on the overall defense. His acquisition sort of has a trickle-down effect. Now all of a sudden they can blitz the linebackers, they can bring a safety. They can do a lot more things because they can put him out there on a Javon Walker (of Green Bay) and feel pretty good about it."

With Smoot and Winfield at the corners, this could be a feel-good season for the Vikings, and the two will have a prime-time opportunity to make their case as the No. 1 cornerback tandem Dec. 25 at Baltimore.

Smoot has circled the date.

"I'm sure that will be a nice Christmas-present showdown for a lot of people," he said.

[Pickles84]

According to the Mankato Free Press, trainer Chuck Barta said that Fred Smoot may be taken to the Twin Cities for addition tests on his knee.
His knee his healing a lot slower than expected and the test in the Twin Cities (if he takes them) will reveal and "deeper" problems. I'm happy that the tests will reveal complications, but I'm nervous in that the tests may reveal something that would keep him out for a long time.

[Durango53]

I'm nervous in that the tests may reveal something that would keep him out for a long time.
You. me and all Vikings Fans...... :ugh:

[Durango53]

An MRI test on Minnesota cornerback Fred Smoot's sore right knee Monday revealed no further damage, and the Vikings expect him back on the field soon.

If he's able to participate in practice this week, Smoot could play in Friday night's exhibition game at the New York Jets. He was hurt during an intrasquad scrimmage last week.

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

Ya hoooooo!!!!!! Thank goodness. We can stop holding our breath!!

Get well soon Smoot.

And also to I think Smoot wont take long to get into form so they should be careful with him....

[Durango53]

Washington's defensive backs have come up with a weekly award in honor of former Redskins cornerback Fred Smoot, who is now with the Minnesota Vikings. After a morning walk-through, Ryan Clark held the award, which was inscribed "Fred 'Silky Johnson' Smoot Award." "It's a prestigious honor given to a defensive player who makes a big impact," said Clark, the first recipient.

Man I loved this signing!!!!

[Durango53]

Ciatrick Fason was relieved when he was finally selected on the second day of the NFL draft in April.

That relief was slightly overshadowed by bewilderment when he learned the Vikings took him in the fourth round.

"I was like, 'What [did] Minnesota pick me for?'" Fason said. "They have a Pro Bowl running back in Mike Bennett, and Moe Williams has been here for a while, and Mewelde [Moore] came into his own last year, and Onterrio [Smith] led the team in rushing.

"So I was kind of sitting back thinking, 'What are they going to use me for?' I didn't know if I was trade bait or what."

"A couple of days after the draft, I got a chance to look at the depth chart and see who ran for what, and you see last year it was a running back by committee thing because of a lot of injuries," said Fason, who rushed for 1,267 yards last season at Florida. "So I felt like I was coming into a good situation to get a chance to compete and just wait for my opportunity."

He might not have to wait long.

Fason got off to a good start in Friday's 27-16 preseason victory over Kansas City, rushing for 55 yards on seven carries with a touchdown. Twenty-five of those yards came on a second-quarter carry that set up a field goal.

"He ran the ball very well," coach Mike Tice said. "When he gets that thing going now, he makes up some ground. He's pretty to watch. Elusive speed. Kind of intriguing speed because he doesn't look that way, but boy, he can chomp up some ground real quick."

The Vikings also were encouraged by Fason's blocking in pass protection, something he had struggled with at times in training-camp practices.

Glad to see things are coming together for him!!!!!! I think he can be a huge back for the Vikings and I hope that back that the Vikings need to be that solid guy that can go all game long and dish out some hits....

[Durango53]

• Linebacker Napoleon Harris has replaced Sam Cowart as one of the Vikings' two linebackers in nickel situations. The other is Dontarrious Thomas.

• Coaches likely will decide after Friday's game whether E.J. Henderson will remain at weak-side linebacker or return to backup middle linebacker.

The Vikings plan to bring in three players to work out and have scheduled a visit by former Washington linebacker Maurice Jones. The team also wants to bring in former Tennessee Titans linebacker Justin Ena for a look.

[Durango53]

No. 1 draft choice Troy Williamson, who was 9 when Brad Johnson first joined the Vikings as a ninth-round draft choice out of Florida State.

"I remember back when he won the Super Bowl with Tampa Bay and watching him over the years," Williamson said. "He's taught me a whole lot, with him being a veteran quarterback and everything. It's great just to work with somebody like him. He's a real good person."

Johnson also is high on Williamson, comparing him to former Tampa Bay teammate Michael Clayton, who caught 80 passes for 1,193 yards and seven touchdowns as a rookie last season.

"Michael Clayton caught a lot of balls, but it took him until Week 6 before he really found his place," Johnson said. "After a while, he started making plays on his own and he became a man. That takes time. I really like Troy. The guy has so much room to grow; that's the great thing. He could become like a Torry Holt (in St. Louis). He has that kind of explosiveness."

Great pick and if the Vikings can get it going without Troy and then he comes on like a ball of fire late in the season how huge would that be. Change up game plans and inject a new fire in the team.

[Durango53]

Two days into his new job instructing the offensive linemen at Burnsville, David Dixon has already become Minnesota's most publicized assistant high school football coach since Jesse Ventura walked the sidelines at Champlin Park games as governor-elect in 1998.

Dixon, who spent 11 seasons playing on the offensive line for the Minnesota Vikings, retired reluctantly from the NFL at the end of last season after becoming an unrestricted free agent.
http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/sports/football/12400556.htm

I would love to see the Big Dix :D back.....

[Durango53]

TUESDAY'S HIGHLIGHT

Wide receiver Marcus Robinson reached high over cornerback Brian Williams to snare a touchdown pass from Daunte Culpepper during the no-pads morning practice.

WHO'S HOT

Injured cornerback Fred Smoot and wide receiver Kelly Campbell showed they can still talk the talk, engaging in trash-talking while Campbell was catching balls from the Jugs machine.

WHO'S NOT

Wide receiver Ryan Hoag gave it a good try but came up just short on a two-handed dunk attempt over the crossbar.

WHO'S HURT

In addition to Smoot (knee) and Campbell (quadriceps), guard Chris Liwienski (shoulder) and wide receiver Troy Williamson (foot) sat out the morning practice and evening scrimmage.

Linebacker Rod Davis missed the morning practice because of illness.

THEY SAID IT

"Sometimes it's pass protection by omission. It's like, 'Please, God, somebody run into me.' "

Coach Mike Tice, on his young running backs.

[Durango53]

MONDAY'S HIGHLIGHT

Quarterback Daunte Culpepper had a pass batted back to him during the afternoon practice and scrambled for a long gain. Otherwise, it wasn't a great practice for Culpepper, who was intercepted by linebacker Dontarrious Thomas and had another pass picked off in the end zone by linebacker E.J. Henderson.

WHO'S HOT

Coach Mike Tice said offensive tackle Mike Rosenthal has come on strong since a bad scrimmage last week and that tight end Jim Kleinsasser had his best day of practice Sunday. "He felt really good this morning," Tice said, "so maybe he's over the hump."

WHO'S HOTTER

Defensive tackle Matt Mitrione and offensive tackle Rian Melander got into a brief scuffle during the afternoon practice that included some thrown punches, but order was quickly restored. Tice playfully mock-wrestled with defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell as the players were separated.

WHO'S NOT

The offensive line is a long way from regular-season form at this point, although Tice said the problems are fixable. "His stance is too wide," Tice said of Marcus Johnson. "(Adam) Goldberg wants to lead with his head. (Cory) Withrow's turning his shoulders too much. … I've identified some things with them and I think they'll get it right."

THEY SAID IT

"We will not keep two kickers. Read my lips."

— Tice, right, asked if he might use a roster spot to add another player at that position.

[Durango53]

Great read and why Taylor is going going to be my Silva pick of the football year. Taylor has a great season!!!

MANKATO, Minn. (AP) - For most of his first five years in the NFL, Travis Taylor has known only disappointment.

Taylor was selected 10th overall by Baltimore in 2000 after an impressive receiving career at Florida. Stuck in an offense built on running the ball, and with a revolving door at quarterback, Taylor never lived up to the billing.

Now he is in Minnesota, hoping that Daunte Culpepper and a change of scenery will revive his career.

"It wasn't a miss with Travis Taylor being drafted where he was," Vikings receivers coach Wes Chandler insisted. "He has all the skills and all the tools. In his coming here, already in his three weeks here, he's displayed that, 'I've found a home."'

His story sounds familiar to Chandler.

He, too, is a former Gator, selected third overall by the New Orleans Saints in 1978. He had an up-and-down three seasons in New Orleans catching passes from Archie Manning.

"I was dying," Chandler said. "Here is a guy, third overall, had a fairly productive college career. Now you're the third pick and you're in New Orleans and your career is just about shot. All of a sudden I'm traded to San Diego. You figure out the rest."

Catching passes from Dan Fouts, Chandler made the Pro Bowl in three of the next five years playing in one of the best receiving corps of all time.

"But before all that happened I was dead in New Orleans," Chandler reiterated. "Now you see my point? This kid was dead in Baltimore."

Playing with Chris Redman, Anthony Wright, Elvis Grbac, Trent Dilfer, Jeff Blake and Kyle Boller, Taylor struggled to get going.

He appeared poised to take off after catching 61 passes for 869 yards and six touchdowns in 2002, but that would be his best season in Baltimore.

Last year, he battled a groin injury and played in just 10 games, catching 34 passes for 421 yards and no scores.

So Taylor he was determined to sign with a team that had a proven quarterback and a commitment to throwing..

With Culpepper and the Vikings, Taylor found a perfect fit.

"I feel great," Taylor said. "It's a receiver's dream to be in this type of offense, with this type of quarterback and all these people around you."

He rattled off the names of receivers Nate Burleson and Marcus Robinson, tight end Jermaine Wiggins, running back Michael Bennett and, of course, Culpepper.

While that cast has yet to achieve what Chandler achieved in San Diego with John Jefferson, Charlie Joiner, Kellen Winslow, Chuck Muncie and Fouts, it certainly is an upgrade from where he started.

Entering his sixth year as the starting quarterback, Culpepper has emerged as a bona fide star. There is no comparison with the Ravens' QBs.

"Archie Manning was a fine quarterback," Chandler said. "But I went from Archie Manning to Dan Fouts. Look what this kid is coming from to Daunte Culpepper."

Taylor began as No. 3 behind Burleson and Robinson, but coach Mike Tice said last week that he is pushing Robinson for the No. 2 spot.

His versatility makes him valuable, said Chandler, who envisions Taylor having an impact like No. 3 receiver Brandon Stokley did in Indianapolis last season, when he caught 10 touchdown passes and opened up the outside for Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne.

"Eventually we'll get to where we'll have two vertical guys outside with Travis inside," Chandler said. "That's a special package. It's like a jaguar. It's fast and you have a guy who has good speed who can work inside and win."

Taylor only smiles when he hears those words. Though after spending five years in the offensive doldrums of Baltimore, the smile hasn't really left his face yet.

And if it ever does, he doesn't have to go far to seek guidance from a former player who knows exactly what he is going through.

"I talk to Wes just about every day," Taylor said. "Wes is a great coach and a great person. He's helped me out a lot on the field and off the field. If I can come even close to being compared with Wes Chandler, I'm on my way to a great career."

[Durango53]

Good career move

Third-string quarterback Shaun Hill was playing catch with a ball boy before the morning practice Wednesday when owner Zygi Wilf decided to join the action. Wilf and Hill ended up exchanging passes for a few minutes before the players started their stretching. "He throws a good ball," Hill said, obviously knowing who signs his paychecks these days.

Brown noser!!!!!! :D

But nice to see a owner down with the team and taking a intrest in them!!!!! I love the way the Vikings are going now!!!!

[Pickles84]

In the second preseason game for the Vikings, the Vikes got their first preseason injury that may take longer than a couple days to heal. Ciatrick Fason was running while a Jets defender jumped on him from behind and landed on Fason's right leg. The original diagnosis is a sprain. The good news is that it's the sprain. However, the bad news is that a sprain can linger for a long time. Let's just hope that doesn't happen.

[Pickles84]

And now our punter gets hurt. Darren Bennett made one of his best punts ever. He kicked a 50 yarder, but the Vikes pun team could not get to the returner so Bennett had to make the tackle. As Darren Bennett was making the tackle, him and the returner both landed on Bennett's ankle. It looked very painful, but he was out on the next series and made an even better punt.

[Durango53]

The Vikings' two-week project at weak-side linebacker appears to have been a success.

Vikings coach Mike Tice said E.J. Henderson has played well enough to remain the starter there.

"He looked great. I'm proud of him," Tice said. "He's had a great preseason, great training camp, and he played real well (Friday night), made a tackle in space, over by their bench, which was one of our questions." Tice added that he was particularly pleased because Henderson did not pout when the team traded for veteran Sam Cowart to replace him at middle linebacker.

Meanwhile, Tice said Dontarrious Thomas, who Henderson supplanted as the starting weak-side linebacker, continues to play well, giving the Vikings depth.

Glad to see Henderson getting it going!!!

Any news on how Napolean Harris is doing? I havnt heard a word on him all pre-season!!!

[Durango53]

Injury update: Rookie running back Ciatrick Fason will be out two to three weeks with a right ankle sprain, Tice said. Fason wore a protective boot and watched the short practice Saturday.

Tice said starting running back Michael Bennett suffered a minor neck injury, and that defensive end Earl Cochran strained a calf muscle.

He also noted that backup offensive lineman Anthony Herrera checked out of the hospital Saturday. He was hospitalized all of last week with a leg infection. Herrera will not practice Monday but might later in the week.

Cornerback Fred Smoot did some running with trainer Chuck Barta Saturday, and he is set to return to practice Monday.

"He's on his way," Tice said. "We'll see how many plays he can play Friday night. But he's certainly on schedule."
Man that is to bad about Fason. Getting it going and looking good and he might have won a chance to be the first string this year!!! But now it looks like he is going to have to get better and bust it off.

[Durango53]

Williamson watch: Vikings receiver Troy Williamson is having a great weekend. He will be featured on ESPN today, and he made an outstanding preseason debut. Although he played fewer than eight snaps, Williamson caught a 54-yarder and a 13-yard touchdown pass.

"It's just a little taste," Williamson said.

But Williamson downplayed his game, although he noted he felt good running. "He's for real," Tice said. "We knew he had blow-the-top-off-of-coverage speed. Now we've got to get him in there this week against the big boys." Tice said Williamson's role will increase "dramatically" against the Chargers, to gauge his progress so "he can help us win the first game."
I am super excited about this kid. You cant teach speed!!!! I hope the game will be on this week so I can see it with him playing more. Getting heathly and getting time in will help and man you got two great TE's that will just get the ball for a first down and hurt some guys when they run into them and you now got 4 WR that are playing to show that the Vikings dont need Moss and they will get the job done!!!!!

[Durango53]

Tice said he's not worried about his No. 1 run offense — yet. "Quite frankly, it's taken a little longer," he said. "We're just starting to get our inside line playing better. Now if this week we don't go out and run the ball better, then I might start to be concerned. But right now I'm not, because everything I see is fixable." Tice added that his first-string offensive line will play into the third quarter Friday.

• Tice praised the play of his first-string defense, which forced the New York Jets to three-and-outs on the first two possessions.

"As good a defense as we've played in a while," Tice said.

Man talk about getting on the case of guys!!!!!

It takes time for the running game to click. You have two guards one that played tackle last year and the other moved sides a tackle that missed all of last year that has to get back into it and same with the TE. It takes time in the first place to get the kind of running game the Vikings are going to use with Speed and screen passes. I expcect with the incressed playing time this week and such we will start to see improvements shortly.

And got to love that defense!!! They should keep getting better and better!!! :banana: :banana: :banana:

[Durango53]

BATTLE OF THE WEEK
Travis Taylor vs. Marcus Robinson for starting receiving spot opposite Nate Burleson -- Coach Mike Tice has been pleased with Taylor's performance and rewarded the former Baltimore Raven by giving him the start against the New York Jets last Friday. Taylor's capabilities as a receiver have the Vikings believing he can play a bigger role than originally thought when they signed him as a free agent in the off-season. Robinson, meanwhile, struggled in the Vikings' last scrimmage in Mankato last week, dropping at least two passes. Taylor and Robinson both had two catches against the Jets, but Taylor remained ahead of his fellow receiver on the depth chart after Friday's game.

We know Culpepper will be great but Taylor is my pick to click t