Vikings Comeback Falls Short in Overtime

Tarvaris Jackson once again led his team from behind to tie the game, only to lose it on a fumble in overtime. Down 19-3 entering the fourth quarter, Tarvaris Jackson and his offense came to life as Jackson threw two touchdowns, and scored two two-point conversions to tie the game and send it to overtime. Then in overtime, Jackson dropped back to throw a pass and fumbled the ball as Denver recovered. The Broncos immediately went for the field goal to win the game 22-19.

Tarvaris Jackson started out very slow again this week as he completed just five of 13 passes for 37 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions in the first half. Minnesota left the half down 14-3. Then in the third quarter it was looking pretty dim for our Vikings, as the only scoring came off a Jason Elam 43 yard field goal with 7:35 left to play. The third quarter came and went and our Vikings were down 17-3. The fourth quarter started out just as poorly, when Tarvaris Jackson dropped back to pass and completed it to Robert Ferguson. A penalty was called for face-masking in the end zone and the result was a safety for Denver. Now down 19-3, Jackson and his Vikings kicked it into high gear. Jackson completed 11 of 18 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns.

Jackson completed a touchdown pass to Bobby Wade for five yards, then ran in the two point conversion himself. The total drive went eight plays for 69 yards and took 2:46 off the clock. Then 2:57 later Jackson connected with Wade again for another Viking touchdown. This time Jackson hit Wade for a 22 yard pass and Jackson once again ran in the two-point conversion.

This second drive took 1:51 off the clock in five plays for 65 yards.

On the day for Jackson, he completed 16 pass for 175 yards, two touchdowns, no interceptions, and one costly fumble. Jackson's top receivers were Bobby Wade who had five catches for 92 yards, two touchdowns, and had his longest catch of the day go for 30 yards. Robert Ferguson was second on the list with five catches for 39 yards, while Garrett Mills made his NFL debut with two catches for 26 yards, with his longest catch going for 18 yards. Andre Allison and Chester Taylor rounded out the receptions for Minnesota with Allison having one catch for nine yards, while Chester Taylor has three catches for nine yards as well.

In the backfield for the Vikings it was Chester Taylor who had 10 carries for 83 yards, while Adrian Peterson had 11 carries for 36 yards. Tarvaris Jackson ran the ball four times for 36 yards, and two two-point conversions. Mewelde Moore rounded out the backfield with two carries for 17 yards.

The Vikings defense did a nice job in containing the Denver run, as Selvin Young, Brandon Marshall, and Andre Hall, combined for 128 total yards and no touchdowns. Our pass defense had plenty of trouble with Jay Cutler though. Cutler completed 26 of 37 passes for 246 yards and two touchdowns. Cutler hit Brandon Marshall for a 15 yard touchdown in the second quarter, and then hit Tony Scheffler for a two yard touchdown 10:29 later. Both of Jason Elam's kicks were good for extra points.

Both the Vikings and Broncos seasons are now over. Minnesota almost had a miraculous comeback season winning five in a row, becoming playoff eligible, then losing the last two games in dramatic fashion. Minnesota was being crushed by Washington two weeks ago, and posted a comeback until the fatal fumble recover by Minnesota was overturned due to a "too many men on the field" penalty. Then again yesterday afternoon Minnesota posted a 16 point comeback to be thwarted by a lost fumble from Tarvaris Jackson, followed by a Jason Elam 30 yard game winning field goal. The overtime loss was Minnesota's second of the season, as they lost to Detroit 20-17 in week two in overtime. The Vikings end this season at 8-8 (Overall), 5-3 (at Home), 3-5 (on the Road), and 0-2 (in Overtime).

I will continue to post three to four times per week during the playoffs. I will try and post two to three times a week during the off season, but will post daily on the Viking Mania Fan Club home site. The address for the fan club home site is:

http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/minnesotasvikings/

and sign up for the fan club is FREE! If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to post here or sign up on the Viking Mania Fan Club home page. Registrations for the fan club, and sign up for the home group are all FREE. Once I receive your registration from the Official Fan Club Entry Form found in the links section of the fan club home page, I will send you your Official Certificate and FREE Gift Pack within one week. Hope to see more people sign up and help discuss various topics on our Minnesota Vikings.

Thank you to all my readers for a fun and eventful season, and......

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

Minnesota Vikings versus Denver Broncos Injury Report

Here is your injury report for the Minnesota Vikings versus Denver Broncos game set for this afternoon at 3:15pm. I am finding out there are not a lot of injury updates during the week, and the players either practice, are limited in practice, or do not practice at all. All other injury updates who are listed as probable most likely WILL PLAY, doubtfuls will most likely NOT PLAY, and questionables are going to be game time decisions.

Minnesota Vikings 12/30/2007 Game Day Injury Report:

12/30/2007 50 Vinny Ciurciu (LB) Ankle----------Doubtful
12/30/2007 19 Bobby Wade (WR) Knee-----------Probable
12/30/2007 26 Antoine Winfield (CB) Shoulder----Questionable
12/30/2007 18 Sidney Rice (WR) Ankle------------Questionable

12/30/2007 54 Dontarrious Thomas (LB) Groin----Questionable
12/30/2007 94 Pat Williams (DT) Knee------------Questionable
12/30/2007 58 David Herron (LB) Concussion------Probable

Denver Broncos 12/30/2007 Game Day Injury Report:

12/30/2007 52 Ian Gold (LB) Knee----------------Questionable

12/30/2007 14 Brandon Stokley (WR) Knee-------Questionable
12/30/2007 89 Daniel Graham (TE) Ankle---------Questionable

12/30/2007 6 Jay Cutler (QB) Knee----------------Probable

12/30/2007 60 John Engelberger (DE) Shoulder----Probable
12/30/2007 74 Steven Harris (DT) Knee------------Probable

12/30/2007 47 John Lynch (S) Back----------------Probable

12/30/2007 62 Chris Myers (C) Ankle--------------Probable

12/30/2007 84 Javon Walker (WR) Knee-----------Probable

"An Orange Crush New Year?"

The Minnesota Vikings and their fans are calling for "An Orange Crush New Year". If the Minnesota Vikings can defeat the Denver Broncos on Sunday and Dallas can pull off a win at Washington, Minnesota is in. On the flip side of that scenario, Denver can do what Washington did last week and play spoilers. The Denver Broncos could play host to Minnesota, defeat them and put an end to a comeback season, and end the Orange Crush New Year all in one afternoon.

Denver is a team to be reckoned with and Minnesota better not look past them. I have already seen articles stating Minnesota should have no problems with Denver and get the win. I feel this mentality is looking past Denver and counting them out. This is professional football and no one should be counted out. Remember, any one can fall at any time. I think New York can beat New England tonight and end their quest for a perfect season. Detroit could upset the Green Bay Packers, San Francisco could defeat Cleveland and put them out of the playoffs, while Tennessee could defeat Indianapolis and make the playoffs themselves, or Washington could defeat Dallas and make their playoff bid come true as well; and yes Denver over Minnesota is a possibility.

Denver is looking forward to ending Minnesota's great comeback and deny them a playoff birth. The Vikings were 3-6 just six weeks ago, and won five games in a row to become an 8-6 team and a serious playoff contender. With the near loss the Chicago and the crushing defeat we took from Washington, most analysts are not counting out Minnesota and have even favored them by 3 over Denver, while ABC Sports Network predicted a 24-16 Viking Viktory. However you like to see this game go, the only true outcome is how well Minnesota plays and what the final score is at the end of the game.

The Broncos are playing at home for the final time this season, and would love to end their lost season on a high note. Denver is also 4-3 at home this season and would love nothing more than to end this season with a winning home record. The overall series between these two teams goes to Minnesota with a 7-4 series lead, and our Vikings have also won three of the last four meetings between these two squads. Once again everything seems to favor our Vikings, but one thing: where are their heads at?

The Vikings will be looking heavily at the score board for the Washington-Dallas match up to see what's happening. The fear here is if Washington is doing well, then Minnesota will not play as good, but if Dallas is winning, then Minnesota's players will be fighting that much harder. This can either work for us or against us. I still feel that our players are professionals and will do their best no matter what happens between Washington and Dallas. I believe that most of our players will be looking at the scoreboard, but will do their job on the field as required. Only one main obstacle that stands in our way of the playoffs: the Denver Broncos.

Denver will be looking to play spoilers and that could come from the hands of second year quarterback Jay Cutler. Cutler is definitely the team's leading quarterback by completing 271 of 430 passes, throwing 18 touchdowns, 14 interceptions, and has been sacked 26 times and fumbled the ball 10 times, losing four. Cutler has started all 15 games this season, but has given way to back up quarterback Patrick Ramsey in games against Detroit on 11/04, and Kansas City on 11/11.

In the Detroit game Ramsey completed 29 of 46 passes for 262 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and three sacks, and two fumbles. In the Kansas City game, Ramsey played one or two series, was 0/2 in pass completions, and ran the ball once for two yards. Cutler seems ready to play and is listed as probable. Minnesota should pressure him often, and challenge Cutler to scramble and move. With an injured knee, it will be interesting to see how a youngster like Cutler responds to the constant pressure of a ruthless Viking defense.

Cutler's top two receivers are Brandon Marshall and Tony Scheffler. Marshall is the team leader is pass receptions (92) and yardage (1,211). Marshall has six touchdowns and averages 13.2 yards per reception. On the other side of the field will be Tony Scheffler. Scheffler is second on the team in receptions (42) and third on the team in yards (492). Scheffler has caught four touchdowns and averages 11.8 yards per reception. However, let's not forget about Brandon Stokley either. Stokley is third on the team in receptions (40), second on the team in yardage(635), second on the team in touchdowns (5), and averages 15.8 yards per reception. Looks like a tough day for our 32nd ranked pass defense. Fortunately for our Vikings, Brandon Stokley is injured and listed as questionable. With receivers like theses, it's hard to believe that Denver's passing unit is only ranked 13th in the NFL, and Denver's record is 6-9.

The rushing unit for Denver can be matched with that of the Redskins. Washington was only one of two teams to gain over 100 yards rushing on our Vikings. The Redskins had a very rough time running the ball in the first half, but ran the ball much better as the game wore on. Denver is ranked 9th in the league in rushing, and can easily challenge the number one ranked rushing defense in the league. Denver's top rushers are Travis Henry, Selvin Young, Jay Cutler and Andre Hall.

Henry is the leading rusher on the team but barley. Henry has 167 rushes for 691 yards, four touchdowns, and one lost fumble. Young is second on the team in carries with 118, he has 642 yards, one touchdown, and one lost fumble. Jay Cutler is third on the team in carries with 44, and has 205 yards to show for it. Cutler is a quarterback who apparently can scramble and likes to run. Cutler also has one touchdown and 10 fumbles, but has lost only four of those 10 fumbles. Finally, there is Andre Hall. Hall is the teams fourth leading rusher with 41 carries and 206 yards, has two touchdowns and no lost fumbles. It is apparent that the Denver Broncos rarely fumble.

The biggest challenge for the Broncos will be if they can contain Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor. All season long if Peterson has a bad game then Taylor has been able to pick up the slack; and if Taylor is not running well then Peterson had a great game. Minnesota is number one on the ground, and has been there all season long. The toughest part for Denver has been containing the run. Denver is ranked 30th in the league in their rushing defense and has never seen the likes of Adrian Peterson. If the Broncos can contain Peterson and Taylor, and their number seventh ranked passing offense can do heir job, it will be a long day for Minnesota and their fans.

Our Minnesota Vikings have their work cut out for them this weekend. If they win and Washington loses, we are headed for post season play. However, if we win and the Redskins win, Washington is headed to the post season. The only worry that should be on our Vikings' minds is to win, and let the Dallas-Washington game play itself out. By blocking out the game they can not control, and keeping in mind what they can control, Minnesota will do much better and should come away with a win. Although you can not count anyone out, I feel our Vikings are a good enough team to defeat any one in the league, and that includes Denver this weekend.

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

&

SKOL "JULIE" For the great titles for these articles.

Viking Mania Poll Results

Here are the results of the last set of Polls for the Viking Mania web site and their results. Listed below you will find: 1 the question, 2. the list of all possible answers, and 3. the number of votes they received.

I will be creating new polls once all the playoff teams are selected. Please keep checking back and vote again. I would like to thank all of you who have voted on all our polls, and will post the results of the polls in the upcomong future.

Who do you think will be the number one seed in the NFC playoffs?

Dallas Cowboys 4 Votes

Green Bay Packers 7 Votes

Which two teams do you think will win the NFC Wild card Spot?

New York Giants 13 Votes

Washington Redskins 0 Votes
Minnesota Vikings 13 Votes

New Orleans Saints 0 Votes

Arizona Cardinals 0 Votes

Which two teams do you think will win the AFC Wild card spot?
Buffalo Bills 2 Votes
Cleveland Browns 5 Votes

Pittsburgh Steelers 7 Votes

Jacksonville Jaguars 8 Votes

Tennessee Titans 0 Votes

With the race being so tight, who do you think will win the AFC North Division Title.

Pittsburgh Steelers 4 Votes

Cleveland Browns 7 Votes

"And An Orange Crush New Year"

Tis the season to be jolly, and the Minnesota Vikings have a lot to be jolly about; but the Denver Broncos do not. Minnesota is one win and a Washington loss from a playoff birth for the first time since 2004, where they defeated the Green Bay Packers, in Green bay on Wild Card Weekend; thus becoming the first 8-8 team to win a playoff game. The Denver Broncos were eliminated from the playoffs three weeks ago with a 31-13 loss to Houston.

This weekend the Denver Broncos and Minnesota Vikings will face off in the season finale, with playoff implications on the line. While the Vikings must win and Washington must lose on Sunday for Minnesota to make the post season, some game times have been rescheduled. The Washington-Dallas game was originally scheduled for a noon start, while the Minnesota-Denver game was set for 3:05pm in Denver. The NFL has since changed the time of the Washington-Dallas game to 3:05pm, so Minnesota will not know their fate until the end of their game. For Washington, it's "Win and You're In", while for Minnesota it's "Take Care of Business and Control Your Own Destiny." Last week I was writing articles on a "Purple Christmas", and now this week, thanks to a young lady from WeareVikings.com named "Julie" I will be writing about an "Orange Crush New Year," as our Minnesota Vikings look to crush Jay Cutler and his Denver Broncos in their quest for a playoff birth.

Minnesota will once again be led by second year quarterback Tarvaris Jackson. Jackson has really stepped up his game and appeared to be making that turn he desperately needed to be successful it in the NFL. Jackson played very well in games against: Oakland, the New York Giants, Detroit, and San Francisco. Then in week 15 against the Bears, it looked as if Jackson was heading for a tail spin, and hit that tail spin in the first half of the Washington Redskins game last week. Although Jackson did turn it around in the second half of the Washington game, he will need to play all game long against Denver like he did in weeks 11-14.

Tarvaris Jackson did turn his very poor season around and became a respectable quarterback. His slight tail spin should not concern Minnesota fans too much. Jackson did show great signs of life in the second half of the game, as he nearly mounted a great comeback. Jackson and his Vikings were on a roll when a recovered fumble by the Vikings was overturned due to a penalty of: "too many men on the field." Washington then put the nail in the Vikings coffin, and spoiled our "Purple Christmas." Too make the "Orange Crush New Year" come true, all the Vikings need to do is win! The rest will be taken care of by Dallas.

Tarvaris Jackson and his Vikings offense should have a very good week in Denver. The Broncos' defense is ranked seventh in the passing game, but 30th in the rushing game. With the Broncos inability to stop the run, Minnesota's dynamic duo of Peterson and Taylor should have a field day in Denver.

Jackson and his passing game is what will need to step it up. If Jackson can come out throwing this week and complete some good passes early on, it will force Denver to play back and not stack the line with eight to nine players. As Denver is hard to pass on anyway, it will be a much easier day for Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor if Jackson's passing game is on.

Both of Jackson's top receivers are injured, but listed as day-to-day. Bobby Wade is the Vikings leading receiver in yards (555), and receptions (49). Wade also has one touchdown. Sydney Rice is second on the team in receptions (31), and yards (396) and has four touchdowns on the season.. Without both Bobby Wade and Sydney Rice in the game, Minnesota will need to turn their attention to Troy Williamson, Visanthe Shiancoe and Robert Ferguson.

Troy Williamson has been a grave disappointment to the Vikings since 2005. Williamson was selected in the first round and was suppose to possess great speed. While no one questions Williamson's speed, it's his hands that present the problem. Williamson had the most dropped passes in the NFL last year. This season Williamson has been used frequently on kick off returns with 17 for 387 yards, but has 18 receptions for 240 yards and three touchdowns as a receiver. Robert Ferguson has been a bright spot for our Vikings as of late. Ferguson is tied for third on the team in receptions (27), is third in yards (352), and has one touchdown. Visanthe Shiancoe is also tied for third on the team in receptions with (27), but fourth on the team in yards (323), and has one touchdown. Look for Minnesota to utilize Ferguson much more this week, and use Shiancoe more than usual.

Then there is the dehydration problem for Minnesota. An article came out this week with concerns about dehydration in Denver. I think the Vikings players and coaches will make sure they are well hydrated. This way our Viking defense can continue to do their job by stuffing the Broncos run, and slow down their passing game. Our Viking defense is still ranked number one on the run and dead last on the pass game. However, until last weeks game against the Redskins, our Vikings defense allowed five touchdowns (four passing and one running), had 12 sacks, six interceptions, and six forced fumbles in five weeks. Last week against Washington, they allowed four touchdowns (three passing and one running), and never forced a turnover. Minnesota's defense will be on track this week, and should stop Denver.

There is a lot riding on this week's game. Minnesota can make or break themselves in Denver. With a victory, they will improve to 9-7 on the season, and will make the playoffs with a Washington loss. With a Viking win and a Washington win, the Redskins make the playoffs with the tie breaker. Regardless of what happens, Vikings fans should be proud of their team. We came from a 3-6 record, and will finish at or above .500. There are not too many teams in the league that can say they did that. I believe we will see a lot of off-season moves made this year, and have a much improved team for next season. Minnesota should be proud of their team and stand behind them in full support.

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

The Grinch that May Have Stolen Christmas

It has gone from a Purple Christmas atmosphere to "How the Grinch May Have Stolen Christmas." When the burgundy and gold "Grinch Machine" entered the Metrodome, it was in hope of crushing all the little Vikings spirits in Viking-ville about making the playoffs. Well the "Grinch Machine" may have done just that. The Washington Redskins crushed the Minnesota Vikings in the first half of the game and led 22-0 at by halftime.


In the second half the Vikings came to life and made a serious run at a comeback until a recovered fumble was overturned because of too many men on the field. The ball was given back to the Redskins and they scored on the same drive to take a 32-14 lead and eventually won the game 32-21

The Minnesota Vikings helped an average quarterback in Todd Collins look like a pro bowler. Collins was 22 of 29 for 254 yards. He threw two touchdowns, no interceptions and was sacked twice. Collins led his team in strong fashion, and looked as if he should have been starting for the last 10 years rather than riding the bench. He picked apart the Minnesota weak secondary the entire first half as he continually marched the Redskins down field. Collins threw touchdowns to Chris Cooley and Santana Moss, while Clinton Portis threw a touchdown to Antwaan Randle El.

In the second half the Vikings made a serious run at another come back until a fumble recovery for the Vikings was overturned because of too many men on the field. The Redskins got the ball back and scored a touchdown seven plays later, taking a 32-14 lead. The Vikings did score one more time to close the gap 32-21, but that would be all. On the ensuing kick off, an onside kick failed and Washington recovered the ball. With one minute left in the game the Vikings had one final chance to score and could not.

Washington spread the wealth amongst all their player last night. In the air Collins completed 22 of 29 passes for 254 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. He did this by hitting Santana Moss four times for 71 yards and one touchdown, Antwaan Randle El five times for 66 yards and one touchdown from Clinton Portis, and connected with Clinton Portis five times for 48 yards. Collins also connected with Reche Caldwell four times for 33 yards and Chris Cooley one time for 33 yards and a touchdown.

On the ground Washington ran the ball 32 times for 106 yards. Clinton Portis ran the ball 20 times for 76 yards and one touchdown, while Ladell Betts ran five times for 21 yards, Todd Collins three times for six yards and Michael Sellers ran one time for three yards. The Redskins ground game made most of their yardage in the forth quarter, by just plain wearing down the Vikings line.

For Minnesota they had a very poor first half, and entered the locker room down 22-0. Then T-Jack and his Vikings came to life. Jackson ended the night completing 25 of 41 passes for 245 yards and one touchdown. Jackson even completed 7 of 10 passes and threw one touchdown. Jackson also threw two interceptions on the evening. Jackson's top receivers were Robert Ferguson who caught four passes for 51 yards, Chester Taylor caught five passes for 42 yards, Troy Williamson caught five passes for 39 yards, Bobby Wade three passes for 34 yards, and Adrian Peterson had two passes for 21 yards. Minnesota's touchdown pass was to Jim Kleinsasser, who caught one pass for two yards and a touchdown.

Minnesota's running game was stuffed last night as Adrian Peterson carried the ball nine times for 27 yards, and Chester Taylor ran six times for 14 yards. Both Peterson and Taylor were out gained by Tarvaris Jackson who ran the ball eight times for 44 yards and two touchdowns.

Minnesota looked depleted the entire first half, and it was as if nothing would go their way. Throwing one interception and fumbling the ball three times and losing it once surely killed any momentum Minnesota tried to gather up. A fumble on a good run back that Minnesota recovered, then a lost fumble by Visanthe Shiancoe on a pass reception, and one Jackson interception, all on different drives, continually plagued Minnesota the entire first half. Minnesota turned the ball over three times, twice in the first half.

The Vikings now travel to Denver to finish off the regular season. The Vikings must win in Denver to even have a chance of making the post season. If the Vikings can win on Sunday and Washington loses to Dallas at home, Minnesota is in. If the Vikings and Redskins both lose on Sunday and New Orleans wins, the saints make the playoffs. If both Minnesota and Washington win Sunday, then it's the Redskins who make the playoffs. In any scenario you want to throw out there, Minnesota must win and Washington must lose on Sunday for the surging Vikings to make the post season. So stay tuned Viking fans, this ride is not over yet.

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

Minnesota Vikings versus Washington Redskins Injury Report

Here is your injury report for the Minnesota Vikings versus Washington Redskins game set for tonight at 7:05pm. I am finding out there are not a lot of injury updates during the week, and the players either practice, are limited in practice, or do not practice at all. This should be the final report posted until tomorrow's game day report. All other injury updates who are listed as probable most likely WILL PLAY, doubtfuls will most likely NOT PLAY, and questionables are going to be game time decisions. If there are any major changes in this report, I will post it by 9am tomorrow morning. Otherwise this is it for this week.

Minnesota Vikings Injury Report for 12/23/2007 Game:

12/23/2007 25 Tank Williams (S) Knee------------Probable
12/23/2007 26 Antoine Winfield (CB) Shoulder----Questionable
12/23/2007 18 Sidney Rice (WR) Ankle-----------Questionable
12/23/2007 54 Dontarrious Thomas (LB) Groin---Questionable

Washington Redskins Injury Report for 12/23/2007 Game:

12/23/2007 62 Mike Pucillo (C) Back-------------Out
12/23/2007 17 Jason Campbell (QB) Knee---------Out
12/23/2007 87 Todd Yoder (TE) Knee-------------Doubtful
12/23/2007 20 Pierson Prioleau (S) Hamstring----Questionable
12/23/2007 30 LaRon Landry (S) Quadricep------Probable
12/23/2007 80 Keenan McCardell (WR) Calf------Probable

Purple Christmas Spoilers?

When the Washington Redskins come to town tonight for Sunday Night Football against the Minnesota Vikings at the Metrodome, they will be looking to spoil our "Purple Christmas." The Grinch could be wearing burgundy and gold, and all could be spoiled in Viking-ville. However, when all is said and done, not even the burgundy and gold "Grinch Machine" will stop the Vikings from fulfilling their destiny and make the playoffs. Even with a loss tonight, Minnesota can still make the post season with a win over Denver and a Redskins loss next week to Dallas and a Saints loss either to Philadelphia or Chicago. However, with a Vikings victory tonight and a Saints loss to Philadelphia, Minnesota will clinch a playoff birth and make it the Purple Christmas we are all looking for.

When Washington rolls into town tonight, they will be riding a two game win streak and fighting for their playoff lives. ESPN picked up this games as a part of their flex scheduling due to this high playoff regarded game. Washington can improve their chances of making the playoffs with a win and Minnesota can clinch with a win and Saints loss.

The Redskins are turning to their back up quarterback and 12 year veteran Todd Collins. Collins was drafted into this league in 1995 by the Buffalo Bills and played there three seasons while starting in 17 games. His last start prior to this season was a 21-14 loss on December 14, 1997 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Collins was replaced in that game and never started again until now. Since that time Collins has been sent to Kansas City where he played for eight seasons as a back up. Collins played in 11 games and started none. Collins was then picked up by Washington in 2006 and has been their back up as well. Collins has played in only two games as a Redskin, both this season. In his total career, Collins has completed 325 of 591 passes for 3,837 yards. He has thrown 19 touchdowns, 19 interceptions and has been sacked 59 times. He has ran the ball 77 times for 148 yards and has a career quarterback rating of 72.3%. Hopefully Minnesota will play him very tough and put a lot of pressure on him, forcing him to scramble. Collins does not appear to be much of a threat passing, as he has a career pass completion ratio of 55.0%, and has been sacked 59 times in 42 games. Collins is resilient though and can take a hit. He also does not seem to get rattled when he turns the ball over and continues to play tough no matter what. If Minnesota can put pressure on him early and thwart his passing attempts, they should crush Washington tonight.

Todd Collins has veteran receiver Santana Moss to throw to. Moss is second on the team with 49 receptions, and third on the team for yardage at 622. Moss has only one touchdown, but is still a dangerous threat for the Redskin receiving corps. Moss has been in this league for seven seasons and is in his third with Washington. Moss is a veteran receiver who has always been a threat deep down field.

Washington also has receiver Chris Cooley to contend with. Cooley leads the team with receptions (60) and yardage (711). Cooley is second on the team in touchdowns (7) and third on the team in yards per reception at 11.9. He his a four year veteran and has played with Washington all four years. So far this season Cooley has seven touchdowns in 14 games.

Minnesota will also have to keep an eye on Antwaan Randle El. Randle El has played in all 14 games, and is third on the team with receptions (43) second on the team in yardage (636) , but has not reached the end zone all season. However, Randle El is the team leader in yards per reception with 14.8.

Washington's backfield still has Clinton Portis. If the Vikings can snuff him out early, the Redskins running game has nothing else. Portis easily leads the team in rushes (280), yardage (1,082), and touchdowns (8). He averages 3.9 yards per carry and has led this team to be ranked 11th in the league in rushing, while he himself is ranked eighth as a rusher. Portis is a six year veteran who is still a big threat to any team. Minnesota's number one ranked rushing defense needs to send the message early: DON'T TRY AND RUN ON US!!

As a team the Redskins offense is ranked 11th in rushing, 15th in passing, and 17th overall. However, Washington scores only 19.8 points a game and allows 20.2. The Redskins rushing defense is ranked ninth in the league by allowing 98.0 yards a game, and their passing defense is ranked 18th in the league with 219 yards per game. Washington will be facing Minnesota's number one ranked rushing defense in the league, and a team that allows only 18.4 points a game, while scoring 23.2 points a game. This will be a low scoring game, and the outcome could be decided by how well Todd Collins plays. The Redskins need a good performance from him to have a fighting chance tonight.

Washington is in a must win situation. One loss and they are done. Earlier this week I wrote an article titled A Viking Motto: Win and You're In. Well the Redskins motto is: Win or Go Home! Hopefully the Minnesota Vikings can send the Washington Redskins home with a loss today and clinch the playoff spot they have earned. Minnesota has played very well for most of the season, and has finally figured out a way to win. Washington started out real good, and has floundered as the season wore on. Washington was 5-3 in their first eight games, and are now 2-4 in their last six games. Minnesota is riding a five game win streak, and have played very well the second half of the season. Minnesota has found ways of winning games, and proved last week they can even come from behind and win.

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

A Purple Christmas

The Minnesota Vikings can definitely make this a "Purple Christmas" this year with a win on Sunday. If Minnesota can defeat the Washington Redskins Sunday Night they will be one game away from clinching a playoff birth at the very worst. However, with a Viking win and a New Orleans loss to Philadelphia at home, the Minnesota Vikings will clinch the Wild Card spot before Christmas.

The Vikings and Redskins will be meeting for the 19th time in their history, and it's the Redskins who hold the series edge 10-8. However, the Vikings who have won three of the last four meetings between the two clubs, and it's Minnesota who is on a five game win streak with showing little signs of slowing down.

The Minnesota Vikings will be led by second year quarterback Tarvaris Jackson. Jackson who did not have the start he was looking for on Monday Night Football, is set to take the big stage again this Sunday Night at the Metrodome against the Washington Redskins. Jackson who has not yet faced the Redskins, will be looking to improve on his game this week. But with a 50.0% quarterback rating from last week that won't be very tough. If Tarvaris can pull it back together, and start the game with some big plays and connect with his receivers, he could set the pace of the game and make it a very long night for Washington and their fans. By making some passes early on, Washington will not be able to stack the box with eight guys due to Jackson's ability of hitting the receivers down field. If this happens, Washington will need to play for pass protection, and this will open up the field for Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson to do their thing. If Jackson is unable to make the necessary plays early on, it could be a long night for Viking fans. Whatever the case my be, Viking fans should rest easy because Jackson has not had back-to-back weeks of multiple interceptions all season. Look for Tarvaris to step up his game, be much more improved this week, and pass early against this Redskins 18th ranked pass defense.

Adrian Peterson has had back-to-back weeks of sub 100 yard games for the first time this season. Peterson is tough to stop anytime during a game. He is a constant threat to break the game open anytime, and Minnesota's opponents know this. This will a true test for both Washington and Minnesota. The Redskins have never seen the likes of Adrian Peterson this season, and it will be interesting to see if they can stop him. However this is one of the toughest defenses in the league on the rush, and Peterson will be tested plenty. Adrian Peterson is a power running back, and the Washington defense will have to learn how to stop such a play maker. Look for Peterson to have another break open game Sunday Night and rush for over 100 yards.

The other half of the best running team in the NFL is Chester Taylor. Between Taylor and Peterson the Vikings average 169.6 yards per game, which is ranked first in the NFL. Taylor is averaging 5.3 yards per carry this season, and will be another tough player for Washington to contend with. No team in the NFL has a running tandem like Peterson and Taylor, and the advanyage Minnesota has with these two players is remarkable. Taylor plays off Peterson and Peterson plays off Taylor. If one is having a rough game, the other can pick up the slack. Both running backs are deadly and either can break the game open at anytime. This power running unit of Peterson and Taylor should have a big game Sunday Night.

With the marked improvement of Bobby Wade as of late, has helped the Vikings to keep their passing game alive. Wade had six completions for 70 yards, including a 19 yard reception. Wade is the team leader in receiving with 46 receptions for 521 yards. Wade is followed by Sydney Rice who has 31 receptions for 396 yards, Visanthe Shiancoe with 23 receptions for 303 yards and Robert Ferguson who has 23 receptions for 301 yards. It was Ferguson who led the Vikings in yards Monday Night with 2 receptions for 79 yards, including his 71 yard burst to the one yard line, setting up the Adrian Peterson touchdown in the third quarter. With the injury to Sydney Rice this week, the uncertainty of his playing, could hinder the Vikings if he's out. However, the Robert Ferguson playing much better this week, then Visanthe Shiancoe will see more playing time as well. Minnesota should reactivate Troy Williamson for Sunday.

The Vikings defense is still ranked number one against the rush. With the threat of Clinton Portis in Washington's backfield, Minnesota will need to contain him and make Washington a one dimensional team. By stuffing Portis early, the Vikings can set the stage and put the pressure on back up quarterback Todd Collins to make the plays. On the season, Collins has completed 23 of 45 passes for 390 yards. He has thrown two touchdowns, no interceptions, fumbled the ball once and has been sacked three times. If the Vikings can stuff Portis, and put pressure on Collins early, it will be a long night for Washington. With the number one rush defense in the league, I have no doubt they will contain Portis. My concern comes with our 32nd ranked pass defense and containing Santana Moss.

Minnesota's pass defense is ranked dead last in passing yards. However, in the last six games they have allowed only four passing touchdowns and two rushing touchdowns. They have also recorded 13 sacks, seven interceptions and six forced fumbles. With the injury to Antoine Winfield, the Vikings will turn to Marcus McCulley in replacement. McCulley has made 57 tackles this season, of which 47 are solo. He also has one fumble recovery. Furthermore, in defensive players like Ben Leber, Darren Sharper, Spenser Johnson, Dwight Smith, Pat and Kevin Williams and Chad Greenway, who all have interceptions this season, will keep the Vikings a very stingy defense on Sunday. This Vikings defense is only allowing 18.4 points per game, while our offense scores 23.2 points. Look for more of the same type of playing from our Viking defense, as they keep Santana Moss at bay.

With the Washington Redskins being able to put up only 19.6 points per game and their defense allowing 20. 2 points, look for a low scoring game Sunday Night. Minnesota's offense has shown they can play in the NFL and that this team does belong here. To all our doubters and nay-sayers, I say..... let's keep moving forward and make this a "Purple Christmas."

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

Vikings vs. Redskins

The Minnesota Vikings announced today that the Washington Redskins returned 400 tickets for the game on Sunday, December 23rd at 7:15 p.m. These tickets can be purchased thru Ticketmaster by calling (651) 989-5151, online at Ticketmaster.com or in person at the Vikings Metrodome Ticket Office. Buy Redskins Tickets Now!This game will be televised locally on KARE-11 and broadcast across the Vikings Radio Network.

You can buy your tickets now at Ticket King in Minneapolis. Just click the link at the top of this page to go to their site. Don't miss out on this fabulous chance to see your Minnesota Vikings in action. This is a playoff implicated game Sunday Night at 7:05pm live on ESPN.

The Vikings Motto: Win and You're In

When the Minnesota Vikings do battle with the Washington Redskins, it's for a playoff spot. If Minnesota can defeat Washington and the New Orleans Saints lose, Minnesota is in the playoffs and both Washington and New Orleans are eliminated. The other scenario is if Minnesota loses to Washington, then New Orleans must lose to either Philadelphia or Chicago, and Washington must lose to Dallas in week 17, while Minnesota must beat Denver in their last game.

The NFC playoff race is almost set. All the division champions are determined, and if everything goes well this weekend, the final two Wild card spots will be filled as well. Then all that's left is who will be seated where. Below is a list of the current placements of the teams so far, and what needs to happen for them to win the higher seed or playoff birth.

1. Dallas Cowboys (12-2): For Dallas to keep the number one seed they must keep pace with Green Bay. If Green Bay wins then Dallas must win. Dallas holds the tie breaker over Green Bay due to the head to head win over Green Bay. Dallas still plays December 23rd @ Carolina and December 30th @ Washington

2. Green Bay Packers (12-2): For the Packers to win the number one seed, they must win out and have Dallas lose one. For the Packers to have the number one seed, they need a better record than Dallas. Green Bay still plays December 23rd @ Chicago and December 30th Detroit.

3. Seattle Seahawks (9-5): For the Seahawks to retain the third seed they must keep pace with Tampa Bay. Seattle has the tie breaker over Tampa Bay due to winning the head to head competition. Seattle still plays on December 23rd Baltimore and December 30th @ Atlanta.

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-5): For the Buccaneers to be seeded third they must win out and hope Seattle loses to either Baltimore or Atlanta. Tampa Bay must have a better record than Seattle to be seeded third. Tampa Bay could lose one game, but then Seattle must lose out for tampa bay to gain a seed. Tampa Bay still plays on December 23rd @ San Francisco and December 30th Carolina.

5. New York Giants (9-5): For the New York Giants to keep one of the Wild card spots they must win one game. The Giants are two games ahead of both Washington and New Orleans and one ahead of Minnesota. The Giants can clinch a playoff birth with one win. New York still plays on December 23rd @ Buffalo and December 29th New England.

6. Minnesota Vikings (8-6): For the Vikings to clinch a playoff birth, they must win one and hope that Washington and New Orleans lose one. Minnesota is currently one game ahead of both Washington and New Orleans.

If Minnesota defeats Washington and New Orleans loses this weekend, then Minnesota Clinches.

If Minnesota loses to Washington, then they must defeat Denver in week 17, and hope that New Orleans loses to either Philadelphia or Chicago and Washington loses to Dallas in week 17. If this scenario happens, Minnesota will still make the playoffs. Minnesota plays on December 23rd Washington (Sunday Night) and December 30th @ Denver.

BEST CASE SCENARIO WIN OUT!!!!

7. New Orleans (7-7): For New Orleans to make the playoffs they must win out and hope Minnesota loses one or New York loses two. The Saints hold the tie breaker over Minnesota with a better conference record. Any combination of a Minnesota win and New Orleans loss will eliminate the Saints. New Orleans still plays on December 23rd Philadelphia and December 30th @ Chicago

8. Washington Redskins (7-7): For the Redskins to make the playoffs they must win out and hope New Orleans loses one. Washington must have a better record than New Orleans but holds the tie breaker over Minnesota with a win over them. One Washington lose and they are eliminated. Washington still plays on December 23rd @ Minnesota (Sunday Night) and December 30th Dallas.

9. Carolina Panthers (6-8): The Panthers can still make the playoffs but must win out, and hope Minnesota loses out, Washington loses to Dallas and New Orleans loses to either Philadelphia or Chicago. Carolina holds the tie breaker over New Orleans and Washington because of a better conference record. One Carolina loss, one Minnesota win, or Washington or New Orleans wins out, Carolina is eliminated. Carolina still plays on December 23rd Dallas and December 30th @ Tampa Bay.

Monday Night Special: Bears on Elimination Plate

With their come from behind victory Monday Night the Minnesota Vikings eliminated the Bears from the playoffs. Their 20-13 come from behind victory in the second half on Monday Night Football sealed the fate of the Chicago Bears and put the Detroit Lions, Arizona Cardinals, Carolina Panthers, and the Philadelphia Eagles on the brink of elimination.

The Vikings come from behind victory Monday showed just what these guys are made of. Although it was an ugly game, and Kyle Orton performed as usual, the Vikings defense crushed the Bears, and kept them out of the end zone in the second half, to come from behind and win 20-13.

Tarvaris Jackson had a good game in that he did not panic nor lower his head when he made a mistake. The young Jackson threw three interceptions and a number of bad passes, but managed to get his team in the red zone twice in the second half for a score. Minnesota went into the locker room down 13-6 at the half, thanks to some courageous play calling on the sidelines, followed by some great play making on the field. Minnesota started out on their own 27 yard line with :23 seconds left to play in the half. Jackson threw an incomplete pass to Robert Ferguson, then on the next play scrambled to the right and ran the ball himself from the Viking 27 yard line to the Viking 45 yard line. Jackson then drew an unnecessary roughness penalty, which put the ball on the Chicago 40 yard line. With :08 seconds left to play Jackson threw a complete pass to Sydney Rice for 10 yards, and Ryan Longwell kicked the field goal to put the Vikings down 13-6 at the half.

In the third quarter Minnesota's offense struggled most of the way until Tarvaris Jackson connected with Robert Ferguson for a 71 yard completion, putting the ball on the Bears one yard line. Rookie sensation Adrian Peterson then ran the ball in for the score with 4:58 left to play in the third quarter. Chicago went four and out on the very next series, and the Vikings took over on their own 35 yard line. Minnesota then drove down field and scored early in the fourth quarter to take a 20-13 lead. Tarvaris Jackson helped lead his team from their own 35 yard line down to Chicago's 8 yard line before getting injured. Brooks Bollinger came into the game and botched a hand off to Adrian Peterson, who ran the ball in the end zone anyway. The Vikings then tried a two point conversion and Bollinger ran the ball in for the two points.

Some gutsy play calling was going on all night. Chicago was 1/2 on fourth down efficiency and Minnesota was 1/1. When Minnesota got control of the ball with :23 seconds left to play in the half, they were expected to go into the half down 13-3. However, Brad Childress showed faith in Tarvaris Jackson, and he proved him right. Jackson threw one incomplete pass, ran the ball himself for an 18 yard gain and drew a penalty on the Bears. Jackson then connected with Sydney Rice for 10 yards to put Minnesota in field goal range. Ryan Longwell made the 48 yard field goal, and Minnesota went into the half on a positive note down 13-6. Then there was the two point conversion. I was surprised by this gutsy call, but the play worked and put Chicago in the position where they had to reach the end zone just to tie the game. It was some smart play calling by Brad Childress and his staff, combined with the "work horse" attitude by our Vikings that led to success.

Although Jackson did not look very good, he did complete 18 of 29 passes for 249 yards and threw three interceptions and no touchdowns. Jackson also ran the ball 7 times for 25 yards. Rookie phenom Adrian Peterson ran the ball 20 times for 78 yards and two touchdowns. Chester Taylor carried the ball five times for 31 yards and no touchdowns. Combined the Vikings backfield ran the ball 34 times for 135 yards. The Vikings just could not seem to get anything going in their back field.

The passing game was what seemed to work. Although Jackson completed only 18 of 29 passes, he did throw for 249 yards. Jackson had some big strikes like the 71 yard pass to Robert Ferguson, a 26 yard completion to Jim Kleinsasser, and a 19 yard completion to Aundrae Allison. Jackson also completed six passes to Bobby Wade for 70 yards, two passes for 23 yards to Aundrae Allison, and two passes to Tony Richardson for 13 yards. Jackson completed one pass to Adrian Peterson, Sydney Rice, and Chester Taylor each, for 17, 10 and 7 yards respectively. The biggest black mark for Jackson was his three interceptions and being sacked twice; although both sackes were by Brian Urlacher, and Jackson never saw him coming either time.

This was not a great game for the Vikings. Although it was an ugly win, games like these happen in the NFL. Keeping in mind that we play the Bears twice a year and they know us better than anyone in the league, I still see us having a much better game against the Redskins. I see the Vikings coaches and players working much harder this week and get that win. Minnesota had come from the depths of destruction at 3-6, to posting a five game win streak. The last time the Vikings had a five game win streak was in 2005, winning from November 6th to December 11th. Minnesota is looking sharp and has a new confidence about them. Our Vikings are play off bound, and with a win this weekend against Washington, and a New Orleans loss, the Vikings will make the playoffs.

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

Monday Night Special

The Minnesota Vikings and the Chicago Bears are facing off tonight for the final time this season on the biggest show of the week Monday Night Football. The Vikings currently hold the series lead over the Bears 46-36-1, have an early season victory over the Bears by winning in Chicago 34-31 in week six, and have the series lead on Monday Night Football 5-4 as well. It looks as if the Vikings have everything going their way for tonight's match up. Not only do they currently hold all series leads over Chicago, but they are also riding a four game win streak, have been playing dominate football as of late, and face off against Kyle Orton. The Chicago Bears are turning their fortune over to their former starter from 2005 Kyle Orton.

Orton has not done well against the Vikings in his career. He has a 1-1 record, has completed 22 of 39 passes for 176 yards, thrown two touchdowns, one interception, and was sacked six times. Although Orton has not done so well against Minnesota, he has done even worse at the Metrodome. In his only appearance in Minnesota, Orton was a dismal 6 for 14 on passes, threw for only 59 yards, no touchdowns, no interceptions, and was sacked three times. It is this appearance that still weighs on the minds of Kyle Orton and the Chicago Bears.

Minnesota's defense is looking to keep their streak alive against Orton and the Bears. Minnesota has sacked Orton an average of three times a game, have one interception against him, and have allowed him to throw only one touchdown per game. As of recent, Minnesota has done the same thing to all their opponents. In the past four weeks, the Vikings have only allowed one passing touchdown per game, and a total of five touchdowns in four weeks. The Vikings defense has still given up a lot of yardage, but have kept their opponents out of the end zone.

Minnesota still has the number one rushing offense in the league, and have had great success against Chicago on the run. In the first meeting of the season, Chicago only rushed the ball 25 times for 83 yards. The Vikings defense has given up an average of 70.7 yards, and 18.8 points per game this season. Furthermore, this Vikings defense has become more stingy as of late, and has helped to outscore their opponents 139-56 in the last four weeks. The Vikings are looking to keeping this success going in the final three weeks of the season during their playoff run.

Minnesota's offense has been led by second year quarterback Tarvaris Jackson. Jackson has shown marked improvement since returning from an injury against the Oakland Raiders in week 11. Jackson has improved his pass completion ratio from 56.5% in week one to 77.3%, 83.3%, 75.0%, and 64.0% respectively. The ratio from week one was his best of the season until he played the Raiders. Jackson has been gaining confidence in the past four weeks and is showing no signs of slowing down. Jackson is looking to keep on improving in the final three weeks of the season, and help lead his team to the playoffs.

One of Tarvaris's favorite receivers is Bobby Wade. Wade was an off season acquirement from Tennessee, and has started in 10 of 13 games this season. Wade is currently the team leader in both receptions with 40, and yardage with 451. Wade scored his first touchdown as a Viking and the third touchdown of his career in week 13 against the Lions. Wade who had minimal success in his career, seems to be fitting in real well in Minnesota.

The other top Viking receiver is Sydney Rice. This rookie is fresh out of South Carolina and is second on the team in receptions (30) and yardage (386), while he leads the receiving corps in touchdowns with four. Rice has also been the big play maker recently by throwing a 79 yard pass to Visanthe Shiancoe, which set up a Chester Taylor touchdown in week 11 against Oakland. He then turned around in week 12, and caught a 60 yard touchdown pass from Tarvaris Jackson the following week against the Giants.

The Viking backfield has been number one all season. With Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor back their, the Vikings have kept opponents on their heels. Peterson had carried the ball 198 times for 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns, while Chester Taylor has carried the ball 136 times for 716 yards and seven touchdowns. It was Taylor who took over for the injured Peterson in weeks 11 and 12, and has carried most of the load in the past four weeks. For Adrian Peterson who is coming off a torn LCL injury, he is still a dangerous threat to all opponents, as he proved against the Lions in week 13; where he carried the ball 14 times for 116 yards and two touchdowns. Peterson has also set his sights on the Vikings single season season rushing record of 1,521 yards set by Robert Smith in 2,000. With three games left to play, Peterson needs 322 yards to break that record, or just 108 yards per game. Adrian's current average per week is 109. This will be exciting to all Viking fans to watch.

For the Vikings to win tonight, they need to do more of the same from the past four weeks and contain Devin Hester. The Vikings defense has stopped the run against the Bears this season, and will do so again. Minnesota has also shown they can play in the big leagues and are a team to be reconded with. The Vikings have outscored opponents 139-56 in the past four weeks, have had 11 sacks, forced seven fumbles, have six interceptions, allowed only four passing touchdowns, and one rushing touchdown. The Vikings offense has passed for four touchdowns, rushed for eight, and Jackson has thrown two interceptions and was sacked eight times; four times against the Giants and three times against the Raiders. Minnesota has been a much improved team and are showing no signs of slowing down. Look for Minnesota to win tonight against the Bears and contain Devin Hester.

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

Minnesota Vikings vs Chicago Bears Injury Report

Here is your injury report for the Minnesota Vikings versus Chicago Bears game set for tonight at 7:30pm. I am finding out there are not a lot of injury updates during the week, and the players either practice, are limited in practice, or do not practice at all. This should be the final report posted until tomorrow's game day report. All other injury updates who are listed as probable most likely WILL PLAY, doubtfuls will most likely NOT PLAY, and questionables are going to be game time decisions. If there are any major changes in this report, I will post it by 9am tomorrow morning. Otherwise this is it for this week.

Minnesota Vikings Injury Report for Monday Night Football:

12/14/2007 21 Mike Doss (S) Hamstring----------Questionable
12/14/2007 19 Bobby Wade (WR) Knee-----------Questionable

12/14/2007 25 Tank Williams (S) Knee------------Doubtful
12/14/2007 79 Artis Hicks (G) Back---------------Questionable
12/14/2007 41 Charles Gordon (CB) Quadricep----Questionable

Chicago Bears Injury Report for Monday Night Football:

12/17/2007 8 Rex Grossman (QB) Knee---Doubtful
12/17/2007 99 Darwin Walker (DT) Elbow--Questionable
12/17/2007 91 Tommie Harris (DT) Knee---Questionable

12/17/2007 31 Nathan Vasher (CB) Groin--Questionable

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

Bears Need Win to Survive; Turn to Orton for Boost

The Chicago bears are all but eliminated from playoff contention. The last time Kyle Orton was the Bears starter was in 2005 when the Bears went 10-5 on the season and lost in the first round of the playoffs. Orton completed 190 of 368 passes for 1,869 yards. Orton threw 13 interceptions, nine touchdowns and was sacked 30 times. Orton had 24 carries for 44 yards and fumbled the ball 15 times but lost the ball only five times. Orton's pass completion ratio was a dismal 51.6% and his passer rating was 59.7% that season. Orton's last start was against our Minnesota Vikings and he lost 35-10.

In his last game against the Minnesota Vikings, Orton threw 14 passes and completed only six for 59 yards. Kyle had no touchdowns and no interceptions. In Orton's only other game against the Vikings, he completed 16 of 25 passes for 117 yards. He threw two touchdowns and one interception. In his career Orton is 1-1 against Minnesota, and he has completed 22 of 39 passes for 176 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.

Since his last start, it has been two years for Orton sitting on the bench watching Rex Grossman and Brian Griese alternate in at quarterback, while he sat and learned an offense he once ran. For Orton this second coming is at a great time. The Bears are not yet eliminated from the playoffs, and he has a chance to come into a game with playoff implications and hopefully come away with a win. For Orton, this second chance is a refresher and possible new start to his career.

Orton was drafted in 2005 and was suppose to be the third string quarterback behind Rex Grossman and Chad Hutchinson. All that came to an abrupt end when Grossman went down with a broken ankle in the pre season, and Hutchinson was cut. Orton played in all 16 games, led the Bears to a 10-5 record and a division title. The Bears had an early exit from the playoffs that season, losing to Carolina in the first round 29-21. However, it was Rex Grossman who got the start and not Kyle Orton. In Orton's last appearance as a starter for the Bears, it is the 35-10 loss to Minnesota that everyone including Orton remembers.

This is a very different game than the one in 2005. When Orton got the start in 2005, the Bears had already clinched the division title and were playoff bound. In 2007 the Bears are not yet eliminated, but are one Viking win or one Bears loss from elimination. Orton is looking for retribution for that final loss of the season in 2005, and hopes that comes on the biggest show of the week; Monday Night Football.

Orton has been working in practice for two years for this moment and now has his chance. With guys like Cedric Benson and Adrian Peterson in the backfield, things won't be so tough. In Orton's last start, the Bears rested most of their starters for the playoffs. Orton will now run the Bears full offensive line and have all the regular starters in the game. Cedric Benson is the teams leading rusher with 674 yards on 196 carries and four touchdowns. Benson also has 17 receptions for 123 yards, but no receiving touchdowns. Adrian Peterson is Chicago's second leading rusher with 291 yards on 91 carries and two touchdowns. Peterson is the third on the team with receptions at 41 and fourth on the team with 351 receiving yards.

The receiving corps for Chicago consists of Bernard Berrian, Desmond Clark, Muhsin Muhammad and Adrian Peterson. Berrian leads the team in receptions, yards received, and is tied with Cedric Benson for the team lead in touchdowns. Berrian has 883 yards on 64 receptions and four touchdowns. His counterpart in Desmond Clark has 523 yards on 41 receptions and three touchdowns. Clark is second on the team with receiving yards, tied for second on the team with Adrian Peterson with 41 receptions, and is tied for second on the team with three touchdowns. Then there is Muhsin Muhammad. Muhammad has 35 receptions, 511 yards and three touchdowns. Muhammad is a deadly force on the field and helps complete this 14th ranked passing offense.

In the last meeting between these two clubs, the Vikings won a barn-burner in Chicago 34-31. It was Brian Griese who got the start that afternoon. Griese was the leading passer of the game completing 26 of 45 passes for 381 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. Griese easily depleted a then struggling Vikings secondary, and divided the touchdowns between Devin Hester, Bernard Berrian, and Muhsin Muhammad. The leading receiver for the game was Devin Hester with one reception for 81 yards and a touchdown. The Bears also ran the ball 24 times for 83 yards against the number one rushing defense in the league.

This time around Kyle Orton will have the same offense as Griese did in October, and will see what he can do with it. Since their last meeting, Minnesota's secondary has improved immensely. Although they are ranked dead last in passing yards, Minnesota has only given up four passing touchdowns and one rushing touchdown in four weeks. Minnesota's defense in now ranked 8th in the league on points allowed, and 1st in the league in rushing yards. This will be a much improved Viking defense than what Chicago saw in October.

The Vikings are hoping to expose Orton's weakness and his lack of mobility. The last time they saw Orton, he was not sacked, but in his career against Minnesota he has been sacked three times and thrown one interception. Orton has not been a strong passer with a career passer rating of 59.7%, and a pass completion ratio of 51.6%. With this newly redefined Viking offense, they hope to keep Orton and the Bears on their heels all night long. The Vikings have to be aware of Devin Hester who has been very effective in returning kick offs for the Bears this year, and has done very well against Minnesota. However, if Minnesota can contain Hester, then Benson and Peterson will need to pick up the slack against the number one rushing defense in the league, and that will not be an easy task. At their last match up against Minnesota, the Bears had the luxury of Brian Griese in the game. Griese is a much better passer than Orton has been, and with Minnesota's recent success against the pass, and their consistency of not allowing points scored, it looks to be a long night for the Bears, and a good night for the Vikings. Look for a Viking victory and continued success on the field.

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings

Date: Monday December 17, 2007

Time: 5:30 pm

Location: Miller Tent at the Metrodome

The Viking Mania Fan Club will have a Meet and Greet at the Miller tent on Monday Night Football game against the Bears. I understand it's FREE to get in. We will meet around 5:30pm and it will last about an hour. We will then procede to enter the Metrodome for the game.Please let me know who is interested in attending. Hope to see a lot of you there. I will be wearing my Adrian Peterson jersey, a Viking hat with horns and purple hair. I love to dress up for the game.

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

Jim Marshall to the Hall of Fame!!!!!!

This is an online petition I came across on WeAreVikings.com. I think it is very important to see a Viking legend like Jim Marshall elected into the Hall of Fame. please read, then click the link below to go and sign the petition, to show your support for Jim Marshall.

The fact that Jim Marshall has not been elected into the Hall of Fame has gone on long enough. Now is the time to get Jim Marshall into the NFL Hall of Fame. His uniform is already there and on display! It has been for years now! The NFL Hall of Fame acknowledges Jim's accomplishments. Why else would they have his uniform on display? I am creating a petition to sign by every Viking and Football fan who truly believes this man needs to be in the NFL Hall of Fame. That's the only way to get in. Our goal is to get them to listen to our cause and ultimately elect Jim Marshall into the Hall of Fame.

Jim retired after 20 NFL seasons and holds NFL records for playing 282 consecutive games, over 300 including playoff games. 20 consecutive seasons without missing a game, 270 consecutive games with one team, 19 consecutive seasons with one team without missing a game, 29 fumble recoveries and one wrong way run (the longest safety in Pro Football history). Jim's career marks are as follows; 409 games (pre-season, season, post season and pro-bowls), *1050 + tackles (league and post season games), *133 + sacks (league and post season games). Jim was captain of the Vikings for 17 years. His teams won 11 Divisional Championships, 1 with the Cleveland Browns and 10 with the Minnesota Vikings. He played in 4 Super Bowls.

PLAYED EVERY GAME! INCREDIBLE!

The time is now for this incredible man to be enshrined into the NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame!! Please sign this petition so we can get started on Jim Marshalls trip to the NFL Hall of Fame!To sign the petition, please click the link below, or copy and past it to your URL Thank you for your cooperation on this very important matter: Mike. This petition was started by VikingLady on WEAreVikings.com web page. A web site that Viking Mania is a proud member of . Please click on the link below to sign the petition.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/JimMarshall70/

SKOL MARSHALL!!!!

Viking Mania Fan Club Meet and Greet Schedule

The Viking Mania Fan Club is scheduling a few Meet and Greets. These will take place before and after the Viking games on Sunday's. The schedule of events are listed below:

Monday, December 17, 2007--Metrodome--Viking Mania on Monday Night Football

Sunday, December 23, 2007--Zimmy's in Hibbing--531 East Howard Street 11am-4pm

Sunday, December 30, 2007--Zimmy's in Hibbing--531 east Howard Street 11am-4pm

The above events are scheduled is hope of drawing new members to our club, and will also give us a chance to meet our current members face to face. We will have a good time, and all are invited. We are inviting currents members, new members, potential new members, and travelers, their families and friends.

There will also be a chance to sign up for our fan club. Registration is free, as we never charge for anything we do here at Viking Mania. Once you sign up, it will take about a week before you receive your Official Certificate and Viking Mania Gift Pack. We will not exclude anyone, and members of all ages are encouraged to participate.

Hope to see you there!!

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!!!!

WeAreVikings.com

Viking Mania has spread our wings, and listed ourselves on the Minnesota Vikings Community page WeAreVikings.com. We have our own profile there and community page as well. I will be posting there, and on our Yahoo Group, all our Viking Mania Fan Club events. To access the Viking Mania page on WeAreVikings.com, the link will be posted at the bottom of the article. This is their logo-------------------------------->

Viking Mania has also sent in the necessary information to the Minnesota Vikings, so we are now a registered Minnesota Vikings Fan Club. On our Yahoo group, sign up is free as well, and that is how you will receive your "Viking Mania Official Certificate" and "Gift Pack" absolutely FREE. To register, please sign up on the Yahoo group, then go to the links section and click on the Viking Mania Official Entry Form. The instructions are also listed on the home page of the Yahoo group. Once I receive your information on the entry form, I will send you out your Official Certificate and Gift Pack for you. You can either e-mail me your information or mail it to me at the address provided there.

The web page and e-mail address are listed below. Viking Mania Yahoo Group: http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/carlossilvafanclub07/and
the e-mail address is carlossilvafanclub07@yahoo.com

The Yahoo group is listed as carlossilvafanclub07-Viking Mania, because I also run the Carlos Silva Fan Club, and his Fan Club Yahoo and Google Groups. Finally, I have a blog page going for Carlos Silva as well, so I just listed everything under one address, so I can keep up with it all much easier. The Viking Mania Fan Club Official Certificate, will read as Viking Mania An Official Minnesota Viking Fan Club.I hope to see more and more people sign up. Our fan club is for everyone, no matter what age. All people who sign up, are also encouraged to bring all family members and friends. The only requirement for membership, is a love for the Minnesota Vikings and football.

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!!!

WeAreVikings Home Page http://www.wearevikingsfans.com/