Minnesota Vikings DE Kenechi Udeze learns leukemia is in remission

Pioneer Press
Article Last Updated: 04/19/2008 12:23:10 AM CDT
BOB SANSEVERE

It started with migraines, then neck pain. Kenechi Udeze was in Idaho visiting his wife's family. People get migraines. They suffer from neck pain. He didn't think too much of it. Thought it was a sinus infection, so he went to see a doctor. It was there, in a doctor's office in Idaho, that Udeze heard one of the most jarring words imaginable.

Leukemia.

"I was almost like in a shock," the Vikings defensive end said. "I was sitting down on the table in the doctor's office, and the doctor said, 'I hate to be the one to tell you this, but it looks like you have an acute form of leukemia.' So I sat there for a second, and I hopped up and said, 'Leukemia? I'm a guy who works out all the time. I don't smoke, consume alcohol.' "

It didn't make sense, Why would it make sense? He was young, strapping, just weeks removed from starting for the Vikings. Leukemia? That cancer that originates in bone marrow? There had to be a mistake.

"The first thing that ran through my head was, 'What does this rudy-poo doctor in Idaho know? I have to get out of here. They're scaring me half to death in here,' " Udeze said.

This was about three months ago. There were more scary moments to come. The doctor was right. Udeze did have leukemia, and it was an acute form. He returned to the Twin Cities and began chemotherapy.

On Wednesday, Udeze got another bit of news from a doctor. This doctor, who works at the University of Minnesota, told Udeze the leukemia was in remission. There were no traces of it in his blood, no traces in his bone marrow.

He ranks Wednesday as the second-greatest day of his life, right after the birth of his 4 1/2-month-old daughter, Bailey. As great days go, he even ranks it ahead of the day he got married.

"I've been waiting a little while to hear those words," Udeze said of being told he's in remission.

"I didn't even know how to take it. I kind of just sat there for a second and I was like, 'OK. All right.' "

He will continue chemotherapy treatments twice a week, hoping the leukemia stays in remission while he prepares for a bone marrow transplant. His older brother, Thomas Barnes, is what doctors call a perfect match for such a transplant, which aids in halting the return of leukemia.

Dr. Daniel Weisdorf, who has helped Udeze navigate his illness, said it's likely the transplant will be done within the next few months. During that time, the chemotherapy treatments are vital to keep the leukemia in remission.

"You really want to do it just in case something would happen where it would show its ugly face again," Udeze said.

He talked for the first time about the disease Friday, showing up at the Vikings' Winter Park headquarters to kick off a 24-hour soccer Marrowthon to raise awareness of bone marrow transplants.

Looking at Udeze, you'd never guess he was sick. He looks like he could step on the field and play. He would like to do that again. But he knows he won't be chasing quarterbacks until after the bone marrow transplant, until after he's feeling like he felt before the migraines and neck pain.

"Whatever comes at you, you have to deal with it," he said. "Of course, I'm going to play. I'm 25 years old. Not to put a premium on football, especially at this time in my life, (but) football is my passion. As soon as I can do it at a high level again, I'll be back."

Allen expected to leave, but talks still are ongoing

NFL rules limit Jared Allen to a 48-hour visit to Winter Park, but negotiations will continue with his agent.

By JUDD ZULGAD, Star Tribune
Last update: April 19, 2008 - 11:20 PM

Jared Allen is expected to leave the Twin Cities still property of the Kansas City Chiefs, but that doesn't mean the Vikings' hopes of landing the Pro Bowl defensive end are finished.

Allen spent a second full day at Winter Park on Saturday meeting with team officials, but NFL rules put a 48-hour limit on such visits. The Vikings will continue discussions with Allen's agent, according to a person with knowledge of the situation, and trade talks also are ongoing between the team and the Chiefs. Allen, meanwhile, is scheduled to visit with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers early this week.

In a perfect world, from the Vikings' perspective, they would have eliminated the Buccaneers from this race by securing Allen's services during his time in the Twin Cities. Saturday night it didn't appear that would be possible, and Allen is expected to depart this morning.

The Chiefs have designated Allen as their franchise player -- that tag would earn him $8.8 million next season, the average salary of the NFL's five highest-paid defensive ends -- but Allen wants out of Kansas City and is allowed to talk with other teams. The Chiefs, though, are entitled to compensation.

Allen, who led the NFL with 15.5 sacks last season despite missing two games, arrived in Minnesota from San Jose on Thursday evening aboard the private plane of Vikings owner Zygi Wilf. Allen and agent Ken Harris spent Friday and Saturday at the team's facility with Harris handling negotiations on a contract that is sure to make the standout one of the league's highest-paid players.

Harris did not return phone calls or e-mail messages on Saturday.

The Vikings have offered Kansas City their first-round pick (No. 17 overall) in next weekend's draft as well as one of their two third-round selections. Those picks fall at No. 73 and No. 82 overall, with the first one having been acquired in a trade last year with the Denver Broncos.
Carl Peterson, who serves as Chiefs president, chief executive officer and general manager, is known in league circles as an extremely tough negotiator and could be looking for more in return

The rebuilding Chiefs, coming off a 4-12 season, would have five of the first 73 picks in the draft if they obtained the Vikings' top pick as well as their first selection in round three. The Buccaneers reportedly are willing to part with their first-round pick, but that might not be as attractive to the Chiefs because it comes three picks after the Vikings' selection.

Meanwhile, an interesting story in the Kansas City Star on Saturday spelled out a big part of the reason Allen no longer wants to play for the Chiefs.

Talking to a columnist from the paper in December, Allen expressed his frustration about not receiving a long-term contract from the franchise. There also is the issue of his strained relationship with Peterson, the result of the Chiefs executive calling Allen "a young man at risk" after Allen was convicted of drunken driving twice in 2006.

That led to Allen, now 26, being suspended for the first two games of 2007 -- he made his regular-season debut in the Chiefs' 13-10 victory over the Vikings and had two sacks, eight tackles, two pass deflection, three quarterback hurries and a forced fumble.
Allen has said that he quit drinking.

"I made mistakes," he told the Star's Joe Posnanski. "But I paid for those mistakes. I've given everything I have for this team. I didn't hold out like [running back] Larry [Johnson did last season]. I didn't demand to renegotiate. I'm a big believer in loyalty. But the Chiefs ..."

As for the possibility of a fresh start, Allen told the paper: "I love this town [Kansas City]. The people here are great. The fans are the best. But ... I'm excited about going somewhere new. I'm looking at this as a new challenge. I mean, it would be really cool to go play somewhere else, like a new adventure."

Frerotte here Tuesday?

By SID HARTMAN, Star Tribune
Last update: April 5, 2008 - 7:43 PM

Free-agent quarterback Gus Frerotte expects to take part in Vikings offseason workouts Tuesday if everything works out.

"Yeah, I agreed with my agent, but nothing with the Vikings," Frerotte said.

However, he is optimistic that everything will work out, and the word from the Vikings is that things are pretty well set to bring Frerotte back to the team as Tarvaris Jackson's backup.

Frerotte -- a 14-year NFL veteran who played for the Vikings in 2003 and '04 -- said he realizes what his role will be as a backup, and he is looking forward to helping Jackson like he helped Daunte Culpepper.

"I've got to see what type of person he is, what kind of kid he is and all that stuff," said Frerotte, who played for the St. Louis Rams last season, starting three games. "I heard, from talking with other people, he's a really good guy. So, it will be fun. It will be interesting to do it."

SKOL VIKINGS!!!!

Minnesota Vikings' Kenechi Udeze diagnosed with a form of leukemia

The Vikings' family reacted with surprise and support Tuesday to the news that defensive end Kenechi Udeze has been diagnosed with a form of leukemia.

Defensive tackle Spencer Johnson said he phoned Udeze in his hospital room Monday night and found him to be typically upbeat.

"He said he'll be all right," Johnson said. "It was a blow to him, but he's in good spirits."

Defensive tackle Pat Williams made the same observation, declining further comment out of respect for Udeze.

A first-round draft choice of the Vikings in 2004, Udeze played in all 16 games last season, tying for the team lead and matching his career high with five sacks. He also became a father for the first time on Nov. 28 as he and his wife, Terrica, celebrated the birth of a daughter, Bailey.

Heading into the final season of his Vikings contract, Udeze might be facing an uncertain future, but Johnson said his teammate's attitude is strong.

"He said the support has been great," Johnson said. "A couple people came by and visited him in the hospital. That helped me out. I was shocked when I found out. He said he'll be in the hospital for two months and have to get chemo."

A local oncologist, while stressing that he has no direct knowledge of Udeze's case, provided some general information about leukemia.

Dr. Joe Leach of Park Nicollet Clinic and Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park said there are dozens of different types of leukemia, which he described as cancer of the blood and specifically the bone marrow, where blood is made.

"We generally break them into two broad categories: acute or fast-growing leukemias, and chronic or slow-growing leukemias," Leach said. "Someone like Kenechi Udeze would most likely have acute leukemia just because of his age (24). Chronic leukemias by and large tend to be diseases of older people, so we don't usually see those until people get up in their 40s, 50s and really 60s and above."

Leach described acute leukemia as an "aggressive but curable" disease, requiring intensive chemotherapy treatment and a prolonged hospital stay.

"A month is the absolute minimum, and in general it's one to two months," he said. "If it's an acute leukemia, you're talking about probably four months of treatment."

In a best-case scenario, Leach said, the chemotherapy treatments would eradicate the cancer. If not, depending on the type of cancer, a bone-marrow transplant can be necessary.

As for the chances of Udeze playing football again, and how soon, Leach said although it's impossible to say without knowing the details of his case, Udeze almost certainly won't play this season.

"He'll be out for a year for sure," Leach said. "I can't imagine even someone in tip-top shape coming back sooner than that. Honestly, the coming back to football, as everybody knows, is really not the issue. The issue is whether he's going to survive this. This is a very deadly cancer. If he does - and he definitely does have some things in his favor - I can't imagine he'd be out less than a year. But I wouldn't say it's impossible that he could come back. I think if all went perfectly, he could come back - not this season, but the season after."

Two major factors in Udeze's favor are his age and the fact that he was in excellent physical condition before being stricken with cancer, having just completed his fourth NFL season.
That doesn't guarantee a quick or full recovery, but it obviously doesn't hurt.

"The younger you are, the better your prognosis," Leach said. "If all goes well and he gets in remission with treatment, then, yeah, I don't see any reason he couldn't come back. It's kind of similar to the Lance Armstrong thing. He went through extremely difficult treatment (for testicular cancer), was basically out for a year and came back as good as new. This could be potentially the same kind of thing."

Johnson said he didn't know where Udeze is staying, but KMSP Channel 9 reported that he is at Fairview Southdale Hospital after visiting the Mayo Clinic in Rochester last week.

Vikings coach Brad Childress is out of the office this week, but the team released a statement.
"With reports surfacing about Kenechi Udeze, we respect the privacy of Kenechi," Childress said in that statement. "The thoughts and prayers of the entire Minnesota Vikings organization are with Kenechi and his family."

Johnson said defensive line coach Karl Dunbar broke the news last week to Vikings players in Hawaii at the Pro Bowl, which Johnson attended as a guest of defensive tackle Kevin Williams, who said he hasn't spoken to Udeze and doesn't know any of the details of his condition.

Even with all the support and everything Udeze has going for him, he is in for the fight of his life.
"It's a devastating diagnosis," Leach said. "It is an unbelievably life-altering kind of cancer because it instantly changes your life."

SKOL UDEZE!!!!

The reporters can be reached at dseeholzer@pioneerpress.com and sjensen@pioneerpress.com.

Vikings' prayers go out to Udeze

The defensive end has leukemia, but no one's saying which type he has or the prognosis.
By JUDD ZULGAD and CHRIS MILLER, Star Tribune staff writers
Last update: February 12, 2008 - 11:08 PM

A season-ending knee injury, like the one Vikings defensive end Kenechi Udeze suffered early in the 2005 season, is almost routine for an NFL player.

Leukemia is not. As word spread among Udeze's teammates that he had been diagnosed with the disease, they were shocked.

"It's way beyond football -- it's about life,'' said receiver Bobby Wade. "With that said, there's no doubt in my mind that if anybody can overcome something like that, it would be Kenechi. He's a positive person. Always a stand-up guy."

The exact diagnosis for Udeze, 24, was unclear Tuesday.

The Viking did not specifically address his condition, but coach Brad Childress released a statement that read: "With reports surfacing about Kenechi Udeze's condition, we respect the privacy of Kenechi. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Minnesota Vikings organization are with Kenechi and his family."

Sources said Udeze was at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester early last week and is now at a Twin Cities hospital receiving treatment.

Said Udeze's agent, Ethan Lock: "I'm not qualified to say anything about it."

Udeze was married last year; he and his wife, Terrica, had a daughter, Bailey, on Nov. 28.
Leukemia is a disease that affects blood-forming cells. It begins in the bone marrow and is characterized by an abundance of white blood cells in the body.

Several Vikings players were in Hawaii over the weekend for the Pro Bowl. The team had seven players in the game, and several others who attended as guests of players. Vikings owner Zygi Wilf was host for a party for the players, who were told of Udeze's situation by defensive line coach Karl Dunbar.

"I was in disbelief," said defensive end Spencer Johnson, a guest of Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kevin Williams. "I called KU and talked to him and his spirits are really up.

"KU's been in the greatest shape. He's been taking care of his body, and for something like this to happen to him is a total shock to us. I don't understand why it happened, but God don't make mistakes -- I told KU that."

Udeze played in all 16 games during the past season, getting 53 tackles and five sacks. The team's first-round choice (20th overall) out of Southern Cal in the 2004 NFL draft has one year remaining on his contract, which will pay him $807,500 next season. Udeze was an All-America as a junior in 2003, when the Trojans won a national title, and declared early for the draft.

"Kenechi's got a big battle on his hands," USC coach Pete Carroll said in a statement. "We've been talking with him and we will continue to support him and send our good wishes and prayers his way."

In four seasons with the Vikings, Udeze played in 50 games and has 139 tackles, including 11 sacks. He missed 13 games during the 2005 season after having surgery on his left knee, and returned to start 15 games in 2006, although he did not have a sack that season.

"I can't describe what was going on with no sacks," he said before last season. "All I can say is that will never happen again."

In last season's opening game, against Atlanta, he ended the sackless streak by hauling down Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington on the game's final play. Udeze had a season-high 10 tackles in the Vikings' season finale in Denver.

Linebacker Chad Greenway was stunned when told about Udeze.

"There's a very big concern," said Greenway. "He's our brother and we wouldn't want anything like that to happen to anyone in our family. We're very shocked. This is something nobody anticipates, especially at 24 years of age.

"We just want to show him as much support as we can."

Wade found out about Udeze's condition late last week while in the Twin Cities for arthroscopic knee surgery.

"As shocking as this is for him, it definitely opens the eyes of every other player as well," Wade said. "Things can jump on you in a week's notice. ... I just want to be as positive as possible, because that's what you need. I'm just praying for him."

SKOL UDEZE!!!!

Reports: Vikings' Udeze has leukemia

Kenechi Udeze of the Vikings has been diagnosed with a form of leukemia, KSTP (Ch. 5) reported Monday night.

The station did not reveal the source for its story on its website. It said that Udeze's doctors are trying to determine what grade of leukemia he is dealing with and that it could take several weeks.

KMSP (Ch. 9) also reported the news, saying Udeze is at Fairview Southdale Hospital undergoing tests and that he was at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester last week.

Vikings officials did not return phone calls from the Star Tribune, nor did Ethan Lock, Udeze's agent.

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood that starts in the bone marrow.

Good Luck to Kenechi Udeze!!!!

Conference Championship Preview

Only four teams remain in the journey to Super Bowl XLII and the quest for Lombardi’s trophy. The New England Patriots host the San Diego Chargers in Sunday’s first conference championship game, while the Green Bay Packers host the New York Giants in Sunday’s nightcap. As usual, vikings.com has a preview of each game along with a prediction.


San Diego Chargers (13-5) at New England Patriots (17-0)
Gillette Stadium
Sunday, 2:00 CT on CBS

The Patriots pursuit of perfection and the Chargers improbable run through the playoffs continue in Sunday’s early playoff matchup. New England staved off a tough Jacksonville team last week to reach this point while San Diego battled injuries and the unfriendly confines of the RCA Dome to upset the Colts.

This contest is a rematch of a game earlier this season, when the Patriots cruised to a 38-14 victory at home in Week 2. But, as New England coach Bill Belichick mentioned earlier this week, that game was too long ago to dwell on too much.

The key for San Diego will be their health. Three of their most important offensive players, LaDainian Tomlinson (knee), Philip Rivers (knee) and Antonio Gates (toe), are all banged up and their availability is vital. Tomlinson should be able to go, but both Rivers and Gates may be game-time decisions.

The Patriots offense will have to be especially sharp on Sunday if they are to out-play an athletic and talented defense. Randy Moss was held to just one catch for 14 yards last week against the Jaguars, but Tom Brady still went 26 of 28 in an MVP-like performance. A similar performance would be enough to put New England over the top, but it’s also important the running back Laurence Maroney remain an integral part of the game plan.

If Rivers is unable to go it will be backup Billy Volek who takes over the starting duties. Volek led the Chargers on a game-winning drive last week against the Colts. New England will try and get Moss more involved in this game to open up the running game and free up Wes Welker underneath.

Prediction: New England 27, San Diego 17


New York Giants (12-6) at Green Bay Packers (14-3)
Lambeau Field
Sunday, 5:30 CT on FOX

The frozen tundra of Lambeau Field will be very frozen when the New York Giants and Green Bay Packers take the field on Sunday evening. Game-time temperatures are expected to be in the single-digits, adding even more difficulty to the Giants task of winning their third straight road playoff game.

After wins against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys on the road, the Giants find themselves one game away from the Super Bowl. Eli Manning has been playing better and the running tandem of Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw has been enough to put the offense over the top.

The Packers have benefited from outstanding play by quarterback Brett Favre, but the offense is also paced by former Giant Ryan Grant, who rushed for a team playoff record 201 yards and three touchdowns last week in the snow against Seattle.

Sunday’s game may come down to the defenses, and who can stop the run more effectively. Both teams boast an effective pass rush, but with the weather expected to be inclement, an efficient running game will be a premium. The Giants allowed an average 97.7 rushing yards per game in the regular season while the Packers gave up 102.9.

If the game comes down to which offense can make a play at the most opportune time, one would have to favor the Packers. Favre is having one of his best seasons and his receivers excel after the catch. But the Giants have defied the odds for two straight weeks and they will look to do the same this week at a frigid Lambeau Field.

Prediction: Green Bay 24, New York 17

2007 Diet Pepsi Rookie of the Year nominees

National Football League

Five first round draft choices make up this year's nominees for the 2007 Diet Pepsi Rookie of the Year award. WR Dwayne Bowe of the Kansas City Chiefs, RB Marshawn Lynch of the Buffalo Bills, RB Adrian Peterson of the Minnesota Vikings, LT Joe Thomas of the Cleveland Browns and LB Patrick Willis of the San Francisco 49ers were this year's nominees.

Fans can vote for one of these five players on NFL.com from 9 a.m. EST on January 3 through 6 p.m. EST on January 28 to determine the 2007 Diet Pepsi Rookie of the Year.

In addition, for the third year, NFL fans may cast their votes for the 2007 Diet Pepsi Rookie of the Year using phones with Sprint wireless service -- an opportunity available only to Sprint customers. This fast, convenient voting method involves texting the word PEPSI to short code 7777. Sprint customers will then receive an interactive text message that links fans to the ballot with the five finalists. Data and text messaging rates may apply.

The winner will be presented the 2007 Diet Pepsi Rookie of the Year award during a press conference in Arizona, the site of Super Bowl XLII, on Thursday, January 31, 2008.

The five finalists were selected for their outstanding performances throughout the 2007 NFL season. Each week, five nominees were chosen for Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week and NFL fans voted for the winner on NFL.com and via Sprint wireless. Those results were used to help determine the finalists.

This is Pepsi’s sixth year as the official soft drink sponsor of the NFL and the third year that Diet Pepsi will present the NFL Rookie of the Week and NFL Rookie of the Year awards.

THE NOMINEES

Dwayne Bowe, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs first-round pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, Bowe started in the final 15 contests of the 2007 season, totaling 70 receptions for 995 yards and five touchdowns -- tops among all NFL rookie receivers. Both his 995 receiving yards and 70 catches were the highest single-season marks by a rookie in Chiefs history. Bowe, who attended Louisiana State University, was nominated for six Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week awards.

Marshawn Lynch, RB, Buffalo Bills
Lynch led all NFL rookies with 280 carries this season (ninth in the league) and totaled 1,115 yards, first among AFC rookies.. After passing the 200-carry mark in Week 14, Lynch became the first Bills rookie running back to post 200 attempts since 2001. Lynch led the NFL in rushing attempts per game at 21.5 and finished fifth in the AFC and first among AFC rookies with an average of 85.8 yards per game. Lynch scored seven touchdowns throughout the season and exhibited his versatility by making 18 receptions for 184 yards. Lynch, who attended the University of California, was nominated for six Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week awards, winning twice.

Adrian Peterson, RB, Minnesota Vikings
Peterson shattered all Vikings rookie rushing records and set an NFL record for rushing yards in a game with 296 against San Diego on Nov. 4. Peterson led the NFC and was second in the NFL in rushing with 1,341 yards, a total that ranks as the second-most yards in a season in Vikings history. A threat as a receiver and a kick returner, Peterson amassed 2,021 combined net yards to rank second in Vikings history behind Herschel Walker's 2,051 in 1990. Peterson, who attended University of Oklahoma, was nominated for seven Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week awards, winning three times.

Joe Thomas, T, Cleveland Browns
The third overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, Thomas not only started every game of the season at left tackle for the Browns, but he played every single offensive snap. He was an integral part of the Browns revamped offensive line that allowed QB Derek Anderson to pass for 3,787 yards and throw 29 touchdowns. Thomas' effective blocking also allowed the Browns to gain on the ground, with RB Jamal Lewis rushing for 1,304 yards. Thomas was so effective in protecting the passer, that Anderson was sacked only 14 times, the third lowest in the NFL and the lowest among quarterbacks who played in all 16 games. Thomas, who attended University of Wisconsin, was nominated for one Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week award.

Patrick Willis, LB, San Francisco 49ers
Willis led the NFL with 174 tackles this year, including 135 solo tackles, tops among all NFL players. Willis also totaled four sacks, two forced fumbles, one recovered fumble and five passes defensed throughout the season. One of his best games was against NFC South champion Tampa Bay when he recorded 20 tackles (12 solo), 2 sacks, a forced fumble, and a pass defensed. Willis, who attended the University of Mississippi, was nominated for five Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week awards, winning four times.

Championship Weekend: Pats vs Bolts; Giants @ Pack

Here is your games for Championship Weekend. The winners here will meet in Superbowl XLII on Sunday, February 3, 2008. Have fun picking your winners and cheering on your favorite teams remaining in this season's bid for the Super Bowl.

AFC Championship: Sunday, January 20, 2008--3:00pm

(4) San Diego Chargers (13-5)

@

(1) New England Patriots (17-0)

NFC Championship: Sunday, January 20, 2008--6:30pm

(5) New York Giants (12-6)

@

(2) Green Bay Packers (14-3)

Bolts beat Colts; Giants hand Cowboys Playoff Loss

San Diego Chargers 28 Indianapolis Colts 24
The surprising San Diego Chargers took it to the Indianapolis Colts yesterday afternoon, as they defeated them 28-24 in a surprising upset. The Colts and Bolts traded off scoring all game, but it was San Diego who prevailed in the end when a Peyton Manning pass slipped through the fingers of Dallas Clark on the Colts final drive of the game.

The Indianapolis Colts scored first on a Peyton Manning pass to Dallas Clark to give Indianapolis an early 7-0 lead. Then the Bolts returned the favor with a touchdown of their own. Vincent Jackson took a 14 yard pass from Phillip Rivers to tie the game in the second quarter. Indianapolis would score on a field goal with 5:10 left in the half to take a 10-7 lead. The field goal was a 46 yard kick, off the foot of Adam Vineteri.

In the third quarter the Bolts would take their first lead of the game with a 30 yard pass from Phillip Rivers to Chris Chambers giving San Diego a 13-10 lead. The Colts would answer back with a touchdown of their own and another three point lead. Peyton Manning would find Reggie Wayne in the end zone for a nine yard strike to give the Colts a 17-14 lead. However, the Chargers would answer back before the end of the third quarter with yet another touchdown. Phillip Rivers connected with Darren Sproles for a 56 yard pass, and a 21-17 Bolts lead.

In the fourth quarter, the Colts would score first and regain the lead 24-21. Peyton Manning would hit Anthony Gonzales for a 55 yard strike. That would be Indianapolis's final lead. San Diego would then score on a one yard run from Billy Volek with 4:50 left to play in the game and give the San Diego Chargers a 28-24 lead. Manning and his Colts were unable to answer the call and the Bolts win.

San Diego will now play the new England Patriots for the AFC Title game and the right to play in Super Bowl XLII.

New York Giants 21 Dallas Cowboys 17
In an epic East Division rival, the New York Giants defeated the Dallas Cowboys 21-17. This was a typical game between two clubs that know each other very well and love to knock the other out of the playoffs.

The New York Giants were the first to strike, as Amani Toomer was hit for a 54 yard touchdown in the first quarter. The Dallas Cowboys would answer back with 14 unanswered points and look as if they may take control of the Giants. Tony Romo would find Terrel Owens in the end zone for a five yard pass to tie the game; and later Marion Barber would run in a one yard touchdown to take a 14-7 lead. The Giants would then answer with a touchdown of their own when Amani Toomer was open in the end zone for a four yard touchdown pass from Eli Manning to tie the game before the half.

The third quarter saw only the Cowboys score, as Nick Folk would kick a 34 yard field goal to give the Cowboys a 17-14 lead. New York would take the final lead of the game on a touchdown run from Brandon Jacobs one yard out. The Giants would have a 21-17 lead with 13:29 left to play in the game. New York's tough defense would not allow Dallas to score, and now the Giants will travel to Lambeau Field to play the Green Bay Packers for the NFC Championship.

Saturday's Divisional Series

Green Bay Packers 42 Seattle Seahawks 20

This game did not start out as planned by Brett Favre and his Green Bay Packers. On the first play of the game Brett Favre threw a short pass to Ryan Grant who fumbled the ball. It was recovered by the Seahawks and brought back to the one yard line. Seattle's Shaun Alexander scored one play later to give Seattle a surprising 7-0 lead.

Favre and his Packers then had their second chance of the game, and Ryan Grant fumbled again. The Seahawks recovered the ball on the Green Bay 49, and returned it to the 27 yard line. Seattle scored seven plays later on a Matt Hasselbeck pass to Bobby Engram for an early 14-0 Seahawks lead.

Then the Packers came to life. Green Bay scored on their next six possessions and never turned the ball over again. Brett Favre threw to Greg Jennings (15 yards), in the first quarter, and handed the ball if to Ryan Grant who ran in a one yard touchdown. In the second quarter, Favre hit Greg Jennings for a two yard touchdown, and Ryan Grant ran in a three yard run for his second touchdown of the game. In the third quarter Favre hit Branden Jackson for a 13 yard touchdown and Ryan Grant ran in his third touchdown of the game in the fourth quarter.

On the evening, Brett Favre completed 18 of 23 passes for 178 yards, threw three touchdowns and no interceptions. Ryan Grant carried the ball 27 times for 201 yards, ran in three touchdowns and fumbled the ball twice. Grant also had two receptions for six yards. Greg Jennings had six receptions for 21 yards and two touchdowns.

The amazing comeback by the Green Bay Packers now put them in the NFC Championship game to face the winner of the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys.

New England Patriots 31 Jacksonville Jaguars 20

In a much closer second game of the evening, the New England Patriots defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars. This game was a dog fight in the first half, as we saw Tom Brady throw a perfect 12/12 in the passing game and David Garrard went 10/12 on his passing game.

The Jacksonville Jaguars scored first on a David Garrard pass to Matt Jones for eight yards giving the Jaguars a 7-0 lead. The scoring drive for Jacksonville was the first time a team has scored on the opening drive against New England in 14 games. Then the Patriots scored two touchdowns. A Tom Brady 3 yards pass found Benjamin Watson in the end zone to tie up the game 7-7 in the first quarter, then scored again in the second quarter on a Laurence Maroney one yard run to give New England a 14-7 lead. Jacksonville tied up the game before the half with a touchdown pass from David Garrard to Ernest Wilford for six yards.

In the second half New England took a little more control of the game. The Patriots scored on a Tom Brady pass to Wes Walker for six yards in the third quarter, and later hit Ben Watson in the end zone for nine yards. Jacksonville's only third quarter score was on a 39 yard field goal from Josh Scobee. new England took an 11 point lead into the fourth and final quarter.

Jacksonville then made it an eight point lead with a field goal early in the fourth quarter. Josh Scobee kicked a 25 yard field goal to bring the Jaguars within one score. However, New England would put the game away with a 35 yard field goal of their own from Stephen Grostowski with 6:39 left to play in the game.

For the Patriots Tom Brady completed an amazing 26 of 28 passes for 262 yards three touchdowns and no interceptions. Laurence Maroney was the guy in the backfield with 22 carries for 122 yards and one touchdown, while Wes Welker caught nine passes for 54 yards and one touchdown. The team leader on receptions was Dauntee Stallworth with three receptions for 68 yards and no touchdowns. Finally, Bobby Watson had two receptions for 12 yards and two touchdowns. The Patriots will now play the winner of the Indianapolis San Diego game.

AFC and NFC Divisional Series

With the Wild Card Weekend coming to an end last Sunday, we are now ready to look at the AFC?NFC Divisional round of games. Here we see all the winners from Wild Card Weekend playing against the top seeds of each division.

It appears in most people's mind, last weekend went as planned. Jacksonville defeated Pittsburgh 31-29, and San Diego defeated Tennessee 17-6. In the NFC games, the New York Giants defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 24-14, while Seattle defeated Washington 35-14. In my mind the only upset came when Seattle defeated Washington. I thought the 'Red Hot" redskins would overcome the Seahawks and go on to play Dallas. Below you will find the new AFC/NFC match ups for this weekend. I will list the games as conferences.


NFC Divisional Series Match ups:

(5) New York Giants (11-6)

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(1) Dallas Cowboys (13-3)

(4) Seattle Seahawks (11-6)

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(2) Green Bay Packers (13-3)

AFC Divisional Series Match ups:

(5) Jacksonville Jaguars (12-5)

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(1) New England Patriots (16-0)

(4) San Diego Chargers (12-5)

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(2) Indianapolis Colts (13-3)

NFL 2008 Tentative Draft Schedule

Here is the 2008 NFL tentative Draft order. The final draft order will be determined after the Super Bowl. Here is a look at how things should line up for the April 2008 Draft day. Listed below you will find the teams name, record, win percentage, strength of schedule and opponents record respectively.

1 Miami 1 15 .063 .539 138-118

2 St. Louis 3 13 .188 .512 131-125

3 Atlanta # 4 12 .250 .516 132-124

4 Oakland # 4 12 .250 .516 132-124

5 K.C. # 4 12 .250 .516 132-124

6 NY Jets 4 12 .250 .523 134-122

7 New Eng. 5 11 .313 .465 119-137 (from 49ers)

8 Baltimore 5 11 .313 .516 132-124

9 Cincinnati 7 9 .438 .461 118-138

10 New Orl. 7 9 .438 .480 123-133

11 Buffalo 7 9 .438 .516 132-124

12 Denver 7 9 .438 .516 132-124

13 Carolina 7 9 .438 .523 134-122

14 Chicago 7 9 .438 .543 139-117

15 Detroit 7 9 .438 .543 139-117

16 Arizona 8 8 .500 .434 111-145

17 Minnesota 8 8 .500 .504 129-127

18 Houston 8 8 .500 .516 132-124

19 Philadel. 8 8 .500 .563 144-112

20 T.B. * 9 7 .563 .469 120-136

21 Washing. * 9 7 .563 .555 142-114

22 Dallas * 10 6 .625 .430 110-146 (from Browns)

23 Seattle * 10 6 .625 .414 106-150

24 Pittsb. * 10 6 .625 .453 116-140

25 Tenn. * 10 6 .625 .500 128-128

26 NY Giants * 10 6 .625 .516 132-124

27 San Diego * 11 5 .688 .500 128-128

28 Jackson. * 11 5 .688 .516 132-124

29 Green Bay * 13 3 .813 .469 120-136

30 Dallas * 13 3 .813 .496 127-129

31 San Fran. * 13 3 .813 .516 132-124 (from Colts)

32 New Eng. * 16 0 1.000 .469 120-136

THE AFC Playoff Race

Below you will find the seeding and pairings for the AFC's first round of the playoffs. This is Wild Card Weekend; the time where the Wild card teams showcase their talents and look for some upsets. In the AFC race I see there being many possibilities and different outcomes. Please take a few minutes and look over the match ups, then make your pics in the comments section.

1. New England Patriots (16-0) Bye Week

2. Indianapolis Colts (13-3) Bye Week

6. Tennessee Titans (10-6)

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3. San Diego Chargers (11-5)

5. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)

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4. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)

NFC Playoff Picture

The Minnesota Vikings season is over, and they are now looking into the new year. The 2007 season ended much better than it started with Minnesota going 3-6 in their first nine games, and 5-2 in their final seven games. Our Vikings almost made the comeback of the year with their five game winning streak, but fell two games short in the end. We now look toward the 2008 playoffs and preview who we think will win each round and go to the Super Bowl in Phoenix, Arizona.

Below you will find the seeding and pairings for the NFC's first round of the playoffs. This is Wild card weekend, the time where the Wild card teams showcase their talents and look for some upsets. In the NFC race, I see there being many possibilities and different outcomes. Please take a few minutes and look over the match ups, then make your pics in the comments section.

1. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) Bye Week

2. Green Bay Packers (13-3) Bye Week

6. Washington Redskins (9-7)

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3. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)

5. New York Giants (10-6)

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4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)

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!!!!

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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