Carolina Panthers All - Time Team

The Minnesota Vikings travel to Carolina for a Week 4 date with the Panthers. The Carolina Panthers are approaching their 30th year. They entered the league in 1995. Over the nearly thirty years, they’ve had somewhat of a rollercoaster existence. They’ve had several highs and perhaps an equal number of lows. They started real fast. The Panthers made it all the way to the NFC Championship game in only their second season. They’ve reached the Super Bowl twice. The Panthers lost to the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVIII and Denver Broncos in Super Bowl L. On the eve of their big game with the Vikings, here are some of the best players in the Carolina Panthers franchise history. 

Carolina Panthers All - Time Team

Offense

Quarterback

Cam Newton

Running Back

Christian McCaffrey

Fullback

Mike Tolbert 

Wide Receivers

Steve Smith Sr.

Muhsin Muhammad

Tight End

Greg Olsen

Offensive Tackles

Jordan Gross

Taylor Moton

Offensive Guards

Trai Turner

Andrew Norwell

Center

Ryan Kalil

Defense

Defensive Ends

Julius Peppers

Mike Rucker

Defensive Tackles

Kris Jenkins

Kawann Short

Linebackers

Kevin Greene

Luke Kuechly

Thomas Davis

Cornerbacks

Eric Davis

Josh Norman

Safeties

Mike Minter

Charles Godfrey

Special Teams

Kicker 

John Kasay

Punter

Todd Sauerbrun

Returner

Michael Bates

Line Tweak?

The Minnesota Vikings visit the Carolina Panthers this Sunday. In an effort to get their first win of the season, will there be a tweak of the offensive line? The Vikings returned all five starters from last season.

LT	Christian Darrisaw
LG	Ezra Cleveland
C	Garrett Bradbury
RG	Ed Ingram
RT	Brian O’Neill

Since the start of last season, only injuries, and there have been plenty, have kept those five players from being an every game staple. Only the guards have started and finished the past 20 games. That’s a problem. The strength of this group is the terrific tackles. Christian Darrisaw is emerging as one of the best left tackles in the league. Brian O’Neill has been one of the better right tackles for a few years. The wildly inconsistent play of the interior offensive line has been a problem. Garrett Bradbury missing all but the first seven snaps of the season hasn’t helped. He’s expected to return to the field this Sunday. That should help. Will there be another change?

Last season, on five or six occasions, rookie Ed Ingram stepped on Kirk Cousins’ foot as each started the play. The Vikings right guard essentially sacked his own quarterback as many as a half dozen times. This season, he took his absurd miscues to another level by slapping the ball out of Cousins’ hand as he pulled away from the line. It ended a promising drive and handed the ball to the opponent. These are mind-numbing mistakes. Ingram has shown improvement over his 20 games. The problem is that his highs are merely pretty good and his lows are so damn low. It’s great that his pretty good reps are the majority of his reps but his lows have directly led to sacks and a singular turnover. Ezra Cleveland is far from free of criticism. It’s just that his mistakes aren’t as glaring, or as game-changing, as those of Ingram. It’s time for a change on the Vikings offensive line.

Enter Dalton Risner. 

Vikings fans have been calling for and begging for Risner for months. He was their offensive line savior. He visited the team during training camp. The fans were teased. The Vikings finally signed him following their Week 2 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. The fans were thrilled. Risner’s had a crash course in the offense ever since. It probably helped that Vikings offensive line coach Chris Kuper and assistant offensive line coach Justin Rascati coached him with the Denver Broncos. That familiarity should help the transition. In Week 4, it appears time for this offensive line.

LT	Christian Darrisaw
LG	Ezra Cleveland
C	Garrett Bradbury
RG	Dalton Risner
RT	Brian O’Neill

This doesn’t mean the end to Ingram’s time in Minnesota. I actually believe that he has a higher ceiling at guard than Cleveland. Right now, Ingram’s nowhere near that ceiling. For all I know, the Vikings decision-makers might actually see Risner at left guard. That’s where he played during his four years in Denver. I just see Ingram as the bigger problem right now. 

The Vikings have pushed the Darrisaw-Cleveland-Bradbury-Ingram-O’Neill offensive line into a second season. It’s easy to understand the thinking. Tremendous bookend tackles and an interior selected with high-end draft picks. It really hasn’t worked as planned or expected. Cousins is hit too often. Running backs are stuffed without options too often. Perhaps this tweak will help. That’s certainly the hope. The Vikings offense has too much playmaking potential to be held back by an under-performing offensive line. 

Kwesi’s Trades Revisited

In his 21 months as the Minnesota Vikings general manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has shown a great willingness to trade. He’s shown that willingness in his two drafts. He’s also shown a willingness to trade for particular players that come available. This is a revisit of Adofo-Mensah’s player trades. His draft trades are too numerous for a revisit now. His willingness to trade for players first revealed itself at the end of his initial August with the Vikings. 

From August 22 - 31, Adofo-Mensah traded for three players:

1. Nick Mullens, QB for a 2024 seventh

2. Ross Blacklock, DT and 2023 seventh for a 2023 sixth

3. Jalen Reagor, WR for a 2023 seventh and a 2024 fifth

Throughout the 2022 training camp and preseason, the backup quarterbacks did not impress. If anything happened to Kirk Cousins, the Vikings would be in serious, serious trouble. 2021 third-round pick, Kellen Mond simply wasn’t living up to his lofty draft status. The Vikings needed a competent backup. Adofo-Mensah traded for Nick Mullens. Of the three August acquisitions, this was the most important. Then and clearly now.

Ross Blacklock played a rotational role on the defensive line in 2022. Other than a single, impressive touchdown run, Jalen Reagor probably frustrated more than impressed during the 2022 season. He was the full time punt returner. His best return was called back by a phantom penalty. He made a few catches. He caused a couple interceptions. If his presence in Minnesota last season did anything, it further proved that the Philadelphia Eagles were complete idiots to draft Reagor over Justin Jefferson. 

Blacklock and Reagor did not make this year’s roster. 

A lot of things went the Vikings way during the 2022 season. They were winning despite the lack of a consistent receiving compliment to Jefferson. Adam Thielen wasn’t getting his usual separation from defenders. Tight end Irv Smith Jr. was dealing with injuries, again. As the trade deadline neared, the Vikings needed a pass catching boost. Adofo-Mensah found one. He pulled off a blockbuster with division-foe Detroit Lions. 

T.J. Hockenson, TE

The Vikings sent a 2023 second and a 2024 third to the Lions for Hockenson and fourths in 2023 and 2024. It was a huge deal. It was the Vikings biggest in-season deal since the Herschel Walker trade. Unlike that idiotic, one-sided deal, this was a good deal. The cost was reasonable. The return has the potential to be remarkable. This was one of the few Vikings moves in recent memory that was universally applauded by fans. The fact that Vikings fans could agree on something is inconceivable.

In terms of player trades, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s second August was quiet. He reportedly shopped Reagor. Maybe Blacklock too. He probably did some browsing. Who knows? No trades. 

A terrible, mistake-ridden start to the 2023 season forced Adofo-Mensah to turn to the phones. Last week, he made his first player trade of 2023. 

Cam Akers, RB

The Vikings sent a conditional 2026 sixth to the Los Angeles Rams for Cam Akers and a conditional 2026 seventh. “2026” is not a typo. The Rams essentially gave Akers to the Vikings. I’ve yet to see any official reports of the conditions for the trade. I’ve seen a mention that Akers has to exceed 500 scrimmage yards to force the exchange of picks. We’ll see. The Vikings run game was essentially non-existent in the first two games. Alexander Mattison and Ty Chandler ran better in Week 3. Akers joins that mix of backs. When healthy, he’s been very good. If he can play to the peak level that he occasionally showed with the Rams, the Vikings added an elite playmaker to the backfield. This was a very low risk trade with a potentially very high reward. 

Due mostly to a 2022 Draft Class that’s been slow to develop, Adofo-Mensah has gotten a lot of criticism from fans. 21 games is a quick jump to judgement. It’s far too early. If the Vikings new general manager has shown anything in his brief time running the team, it’s that he does not sit idle. He will use all avenues in his efforts to improve the Vikings. 

Minnesota Vikings Statistical Leaders

The Minnesota Vikings have started the season 0-3. Terrible. It can be reassuring to think about how each game could’ve easily gone the Vikings way. It’s also pointless. They are 0-3. Unless we can come up with some sort of time machine, nothing will change that. Despite the terrible start, some Vikings populate the very top of the league’s statistical leaders. This is an attempt to find some good in the terrible start. I’ll start with the great Justin Jefferson.

Justin Jefferson

Receptions: 27 (League Rank: 3rd)

1. Keenan Allen  32

2. Puka Nacua     30

Yards: 458 (League Rank: 1st)

2. Tyreek Hill      412

3. Keenan Allen  402

Jefferson is averaging about 17 yards per receptions. As for the two receivers with more receptions.

Allen   12.6

Nacua  11.3

Unlike those with more receptions, Jefferson is actually running some routes.

Kirk Cousins

Yards: 1,075 (League Rank: 1st)

2. Tua Tagavailoa  1,024

3. Justin Herbert      939

Touchdowns: 9 (League Rank: 1st)

2. Tua Tagavailoa      8

3. Patrick Mahomes  7

3. Jordan Love          7

Attempts: 138 (League Rank: 1st)

2. Matthew Stafford  126

3. Mac Jones              125

Completions: 96 (League Rank: 1st)

2. Justin Herbert  90

3. Mac Jones       81

Cousins has had a fantastic start to the season. He’s thrown two interceptions. Both of which hit his intended receiver before finding the hands of an opponent. 

Danielle Hunter

Sacks: 5.0 (League Rank: 2)

1. T.J. Watt  6.0

With Brian Flores calling the defensive shots, the Vikings have blitzed a lot. Despite all of the extra pass rushes, it’s Hunter that’s provided the most consistent pressure. He’s been great. But he needs help. He needs Marcus Davenport on the field. He needs Davenport to stay on the field. It’d also be nice to see some of the extra rushers get home.

Through three games, the Vikings have the league’s most productive quarterback, the best receiver, and one of the best pass rushers. It doesn’t seem possible that they haven’t won a single game. 

Self-inflicted mistakes. Turnovers. Continuing the statistical leaders theme, the Vikings have turned the ball over a league-leading nine times. Of those nine turnovers, two have set their opponent up nicely for immediate scores. Six have come within reach of the opponents end zone. Half of those have come at the goal line or in the end zone. The final turnover came near midfield. It also came on the first play after their first takeaway of the season. Unbelievable. There’s never a good time or place on the field for a turnover but the Vikings nine turnovers couldn’t come at worse times or places on the field. Unbelievable. 

Minnesota Vikings Week 3 Superlatives

The Minnesota Vikings gave away another game. This one to the Los Angeles Chargers. Enough with the self-inflicted mistakes. Through those mistakes, some Vikings players managed to shine. They happen to be the same three players that shined in the Week 1 and Week 2 losses. This exercise has become very redundant. 

Offensive Player of the Game

Justin Jefferson, WR

Again. Justin Jefferson was the best player on the field. Keenan Allen was terrific. He caught more passes and gained more yards. He even threw for a touchdown. Nearly all of his catches were within a couple yards of the line of scrimmage. Jefferson was better. He tightens his grip on title of “best receiver in the league” with each week. He’s arguably the best player in the league. 150 receiving yards have become routine. He just has to get in the end zone more often.

His game:

7 catches, 149 yards, 1 TD (52 yards)

Jefferson’s incredible start to the season has overshadowed Kirk Cousins’ incredible start to the season. He leads the league in attempts, completions, passing yardage, and touchdowns. His two interceptions bounced off the hands/chest of his receivers. Both in the end zone. 

If only the Vikings could put an end to the damn self-inflicted mistakes. 

Defensive Player of the Game

Danielle Hunter, OLB

Again. Danielle Hunter was again the Vikings most disruptive defensive player. The Vikings blitzed Justin Herbert on nearly every drop back. The Chargers mostly neutralized that blitz with quick releases to very short routes. Of Herbert’s 40 completions, only a handful were deeper than 10 yards. Nearly all were within a couple yards of the line of scrimmage. Hunter was the only Vikings pass rusher to get a sack. It was a strip sack as he slapped the ball out of Herbert’s hand. Hunter is among the league leaders with five sacks. He needs some pass rushing help. He needs Marcus Davenport to get on the field and stay on the field.

Special Teams Player of the Game

Ryan Wright, P

Again. Ryan Wright punted three times for 145 yards. None were returned. He put one out of bounds at the Chargers six-yard line. He nearly pinned a second deep but it bounced into the end zone. The third was also a touchback. Wright’s been punting great. 

Vikings - Chargers

The Minnesota Vikings found a way to give away another winnable game. This time to the Los Angeles Chargers.

Minnesota Vikings 24

Los Angeles Chargers 28

The loss drops the Vikings record to 0-3. They must get out of their own way. 

The Vikings lost four regular season games last season. They are already up to three losses this season. 

Turnovers.

Through the first two games, the Vikings had given the ball away seven times. That couldn’t continue against the Chargers. It did. The Vikings crisply moved down the field on their first possession. They did so with the run. That was a bit of a surprise as they could do nothing on the ground through the first two games. On a third-and-8 from the Chargers 26-yard line, Kirk Cousins hit T.J. Hockenson for nine yards. Great! No, Chargers safety Alohi Gilman wrestled the ball away from Hockenson. A promising first possession against the Chargers ended the same way several promising possessions ended against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Philadelphia Eagles. With a turnover. They’re a game-wrecker. There’s never a good time or place for a turnover but the majority of the Vikings nine turnovers, through three games, have been within reach of their opponents end zone. And it isn’t as if the opponents are forcing these turnovers with great plays or big hits. The Vikings are gifting them. They’ve been so damn generous. 

The Run Game.

Through the first two games, the Vikings run game had been anemic. They opened against the Chargers with five Alexander Mattison runs. That moved the ball from their own 43 to the Chargers 26. It was good to see. For the game, the Vikings gained 130 yards on 24 carries, 5.4 yards/attempt. Mattison gained 93 on 20 carries. Ty Chandler gained 27 yards on 3 carries. The Vikings entered the game with zero runs of more than 10 yards. They had several against the Chargers. If it weren’t for the first two games, 130 rushing yards would simply be a nice performance. Instead, this was a revelation. It would’ve been even better if it wasn’t for another fumble. Mattison put the ball on the ground. He was saved from a second fumble by a quick whistle. Ball security!?! It’s sure been a problem. 

Lucky, fluky, or football?

When a team can’t get out of their own way or something is just a bit off, the ball just seems to find its way into the hands of the other team. On what turned out to be the Chargers winning score, Justin Herbert heaved the ball in the direction of Josh Palmer. Vikings corner Akayleb Evans had the ball in his hands for an interception. Turnover! Nope. The ball slips through his hands, bounces off his helmet and falls into the hands of Palmer. He steps into the end zone for a lucky, fluky touchdown. The Chargers regained the lead, 28-24, with 8:05 to play. At the end, the Vikings had an ideal opportunity to escape with a win. 12 seconds remain. First-and-goal from the six. Two plays? Only need one. Kirk Cousins drills the ball to T.J. Hockenson at the goal line. The ball ricocheted off his chest, hangs in the air, and lands in the hands of Chargers diving linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr. Two lucky, fluky plays that end up in the hands of Chargers and the Vikings exit Week 3 with their third loss. 

Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert was great in this game. The pass that Evans should’ve intercepted was probably the only blemish. And that ended up being a touchdown! For the game, Herbert completed 40 of 47 passes for 405 yards and three touchdowns. Throughout the game, I couldn’t help but think of Sam Bradford’s 2016 season with the Vikings when he completed a then league record 71.6% of his passes. The narrative of his accurate season was that he dinked and dunked his way to the record. Of Herbert’s 40 completions, only a handful traveled more than 10 yards in the air. I wouldn’t be surprised if the run-after-catch yards were more than the air yards. This isn’t meant to take anything away from Herbert’s terrific game. It’s meant to point out very selective narratives. 

I’ve enjoyed watching Keenan Allen since his Cal days. Great hands. Great route runner. He’s a fun receiver. I did not enjoy watching him play yesterday. He was incredible and the biggest reason for Herbert’s terrific game. Allen caught 18 passes for 215 yards. He also threw a 49-yard touchdown. Despite all those catches and all those yards, I actually think that Vikings corner Byron Murphy Jr. played well when lined up against him. Allen was just clicking. 

I was convinced that the Vikings would beat the Buccaneers in Week 1. I was hoping for the best against the Eagles on three days rest in Week 2. I was convinced that the Vikings would beat the Chargers in Week 3. Nothing has gone as expected or hoped through three weeks. I suppose that it’s promising that, if not for their own generosity, the Vikings would be/could be/should be 3-0. They must get out of their own way. They must stop the mistakes. They must beat the Carolina Panthers next Sunday. 

Flea Flicker Week 3 Predictions

We’re on to Week 3. Hopefully, the Minnesota Vikings can get their first win. That first win should never come as late as Week 3.

Los Angeles Chargers @ Minnesota Vikings

Pick: Vikings

The Vikings must get their first win this week. 

Tennessee Titans @ Cleveland Browns

Pick: Titans

As long as the Browns continue with their current quarterback it’ll be difficult to favor them.

Atlanta Falcons @ Detroit Lions

Pick: Falcons

Just a hunch.

New Orleans Saints @ Green Bay Packers

Pick: Saints

Another hunch.

Denver Broncos @ Miami Dolphins

Pick: Dolphins

I expecting a thrashing. 

New England Patriots @ New York Jets

Pick: Patriots

The Patriots have the ball last and edge the Jets.

Buffalo Bills @ Washington Commanders

Pick: Bills

The Bill should roll over the undefeated Commanders.

Indianapolis Colts @ Baltimore Ravens

Pick: Ravens

I hope that Anthony Richardson is cleared to play. Seeing Richardson and Lamar Jackson duel would be fun.

Carolina Panthers @ Seattle Seahawks

Pick: Seahawks

Andy Dalton vs Geno Smith. Fun!

Chicago Bears @ Kansas City Chiefs

Pick: Chiefs

The Chiefs roll.

Dallas Cowboys @ Arizona Cardinals

Pick: Cowboys

The Cowboys roll.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Las Vegas Raiders

Pick: Steelers

The Steelers need to score some offensive touchdowns. 

Philadelphia Eagles @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Pick: Eagles

The Eagles easily hand the Buccaneers their first loss.

Los Angeles Rams @ Cincinnati Bengals 

Pick: Bengals

Hopefully, Joe Burrow plays. The Bengals need to get their offense in working order. 

Jamming two games on Monday night is so stupid. It isn’t as stupid as forcing teams to play on Thursday with three days to recover but it’s pretty stupid. We got two such Mondays this year. 

Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers All - Time Team

The Minnesota Vikings host the Los Angeles Chargers tomorrow. The Chargers have an interesting history. They started in Los Angeles in 1960 as an original member of the American Football League. After a single season in Los Angeles, the team moved to San Diego and stayed there until their recent return to Los Angeles. The Chargers were an immediate AFL power with legendary coach Sid Gillman. They played in the 1960, 1961,1963, and 1964 AFL title games, winning in 1963. The Don Coryell-led Chargers of the late 1970s and early 1980s were fun, explosive teams. While their lone Super Bowl appearance was in the 1990s (the San Francisco 49ers took them apart in Super Bowl XXIX), the Chargers best days were those early AFL days, the Coryell years, and the 2000s with Philip Rivers, LaDanian Tomlinson, and Antonio Gates. Despite the lack of an NFL title, the Chargers have a strong, fun history. Here are some of the best players in Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers franchise history. 

Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers All - Time Team

Offense

Quarterback

Dan Fouts

Running Back

LaDanian Tomlinson

Fullback

Keith Lincoln 

Wide Receivers

Lance Alworth

Charlie Joiner

Tight End

Kellen Winslow 

Offensive Tackles

Ron Mix

Russ Washington

Offensive Guards

Walt Sweeney

Ed White

Center

Nick Hardwick

Defense

Defensive Ends

Leslie O’Neal

Joey Bosa

Defensive Tackles

Ernie Ladd

Gary Johnson

Linebackers

Junior Seau

Chuck Allen

Shawne Merriman 

Cornerbacks

Gill Byrd

Speedy Duncan

Safeties

Eric Weddle

Derwin James

Special Teams

Kicker 

John Karney

Punter

Darren Bennett

Returner

Darren Sproles

Minnesota Vikings 53 - Man Roster

After two weeks, the Minnesota Vikings made significant tweaks to the roster. They signed guard Dalton Risner on Monday. They traded for Cam Akers on Wednesday. Risner projects to be a starter as soon as he’s ready. Seeking a starter in free agency after only two weeks is significant. Trading for an additional running back after only two weeks is significant. Both additions were made to bolster a seriously underwhelming run game. The additions brought unfortunate subtractions as offensive tackle Oli Udoh and receiver Jalen Nailor were placed on injured reserve. Udoh is out for the season. Hopefully, Nailor will only be sidelined for four weeks. Here’s the updated roster. 

Minnesota Vikings 53-Man Roster

Offense (25)

Quarterback (3)

  8 Kirk Cousins

12 Nick Mullens

16 Jaren Hall

Running Back (4)

  2 Alexander Mattison

31 Cam Akers

32 Ty Chandler

37 Myles Gaskins

Fullback (1)

30 C.J. Ham

Wide Receiver (4)

18 Justin Jefferson

17 K.J. Osborn

  3 Jordan Addison

19 Brandon Powell

Tight End (4)

87 T. J. Hockenson

84 Josh Oliver

86 Johnny Mundt

34 Nick Muse

Offensive Linemen (9)

71 Christian Darrisaw

72 Ezra Cleveland

56 Garrett Bradbury 

67 Ed Ingram

75 Brian O’Neill

66 Dalton Risner

76 David Quessenberry

64 Blake Brandel

65 Austin Schlottman

Defense (25)

Defensive Line (5)

94 Dean Lowry

95 Khyiris Tonga

97 Harrison Phillips

93 Jonathan Bullard

78 Jaquelin Roy

Outside Linebacker (5)

99 Danielle Hunter

  0 Marcus Davenport

91 Patrick Jones

98 D.J.Wonnum

55 Andre Carter II

Inside Linebacker (4)

33 Brian Asamoah

58 Jordan Hicks

40 Ivan Pace Jr. 

45 Troy Dye 

Cornerback (5)

  7 Byron Murphy Jr.

21 Akayleb Evans

11 Mekhi Blackmon

23 Andrew Booth Jr.

36 Najee Thompson

Safety (6)

22 Harrison Smith

24 Camryn Bynum

  6 Lewis Cine

44 Josh Metellus

20 Jay Ward

25 Theo Jackson

Special Teams (3)

Kicker (1)

  1 Greg Joseph

Punter (1)

14 Ryan Wright

Long Snapper (1)

42 Andrew DePaola

Practice Squad

78 Hakeem Adeniji, OL

68 Henry Byrd, OL

35 C.J. Coldon Jr., CB

52 Sheldon Day, DL

13 N’Keal Harry, WR

15 Lucky Jackson, WR

  9 Trishton Jackson, WR

27 DeWayne McBride, RB

79 Tyrese Robinson, OL

50 T.J. Smith, DL

89 Thayer Thomas, WR

59 Nick Vigil, LB

43 Luiji Vilain, OLB

51 Benton Whitley, OLB

38 Jaylin Williams, CB

29 Joejuan Williams, CB

International Exemption

73 Junior Aho, DL

Injured Reserve

81 Malik Knowles, WR

47 William Kwenkeu, LB

92 James Lynch, DL

26 Kene Nwangwu

83 Jalen Nailor

74 Oli Udoh

Reserve/Non-Football Injury

62 Chris Reed, G/C

Minnesota Vikings Trade For A Running Back

In terms of player acquisitions, this week felt more like the offseason than the regular season. On Monday, the Minnesota Vikings signed guard Dalton Risner. Yesterday, the Vikings acquired running back Cam Akers in a trade with the Los Angeles Rams. It’s the sort of player acquisition activity that’s unusual as the team is preparing for a Week 3 game. A priority of the offseason was improving the efficiency of the run game. Through the first two games of the season the Vikings run game was been nothing close to efficient. Or productive. The run game must improve. The additions of Risner and Akers were done with that improvement in mind. 

I first became aware of Cam Akers as the running back that replaced Dalvin Cook at Florida State. He was very good in college and played his way into being a second round pick of the Los Angeles Rams in the 2020 NFL Draft. His time with the Rams was three-plus years of decent highs and low lows. Some of his best times came while Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, offensive coordinator Wes Phillips, and quarterbacks coach Chris O’Hara were among the Rams offensive coaches. That included a solid rookie season and the remarkable recovery from a torn Achilles tendon at the start of the 2021 training camp. Only five months after that injury, Akers returned and helped the Rams progress to and win the Super Bowl. 

For whatever reason, the relationship between Akers and head coach Sean McVay soured last season. Not a lot went right for the Rams the year after winning the Super Bowl. From injuries to losses, little went right. Akers got so frustrated that he requested a trade after the Week 5 game and did not play over the next three weeks. There was a lot of frustration throughout the Rams organization. Most of it seemed focused on the situation with Akers. Perhaps for player and team, things ended well when Akers finished the season with three consecutive games of 100 yards rushing. 2023 was sure to be better for Akers and the Rams. It wasn’t and Cam Akers is now in Minnesota. 

Now what?

Alexander Mattison was re-signed in the offseason to be the Vikings top back. He probably still is. If nothing else, the addition of Akers gives the Vikings another running option. When things are working, he has the talent to be an elite back. Something like the one he followed at Florida State, Dalvin Cook. Akers is more explosive than Mattison. In the Vikings running back hierarchy, the addition probably hurts Ty Chandler more than Mattison. And Kene Nwangwu if he ever returns from the injury that sidelined him in training camp. 

Some argue that the additions of Dalton Risner and Cam Akers are moves that should’ve happened months ago. That’s definitely the case with Risner. Moves made, and not made, in the offseason are done with a whole lot of hope. The Vikings hoped that returning their five highly-drafted offensive linemen would improve the efficiency of the running game. They hoped that supplementing that offensive line with the blocking talents of tight end Josh Oliver would improve the efficiency of the running game. They hoped that Alexander Mattison would handle the lead running role. That’s a lot of hope. Perhaps too much hope. The offseason is all about hope. Through two games (both losses), the running game has been a significant problem. An injury to center Garrett Bradbury (after only seven snaps) hasn’t helped. Neither has the ankle injury that sidelined left tackle Christian Darrisaw for the Week 2 game. It’s expected that Risner will step into the starting lineup as soon as he’s ready. Whether that’s replacing Ezra Cleveland at left guard or Ed Ingram at right guard remains to be seen. At the very least, Akers will step right in as a change-of-pace back for Mattison. The hope is that both additions will be spectacular successes. 

Pro Football Hall of Fame Nominees

The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced 173 nominees for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024. Among the nominees are nine players in their first of eligibility.

Jamaal Charles

Brandon Marshall

Jordy Nelson

Antonio Gates

T.J. Lang

Josh Sutton

Max Unger

Julius Peppers

Haloti Ngata

Of those, Julius Peppers and Antonio Gates likely have the best shot at making it to Canton in their first shot. 

The 173 nominees:

QUARTERBACKS (10): Marc Bulger, Randall Cunningham, Jake Delhomme, Doug Flutie, Rich Gannon, Jeff Garcia, Donovan McNabb, Steve McNair, Tony Romo, Michael Vick.

RUNNING BACKS (33): Shaun Alexander, Terry Allen, Mike Alstott, Jamal Anderson, Tiki Barber, Michael Bates (also KR), Jamaal Charles, Larry Centers (FB), Stephen Davis, Corey Dillon, Warrick Dunn, Charlie Garner, Eddie George, Ahman Green, Priest Holmes, Steven Jackson, Chris Johnson, Daryl Johnston (FB), Thomas Jones, John Kuhn (FB), Vonta Leach, Dorsey Levens, Jamal Lewis, Eric Metcalf (also WR/PR/KR), Glyn Milburn (also WR), Lorenzo Neal (FB), Tony Richardson (FB), Robert Smith, Fred Taylor, Chris Warren, Ricky Watters, Brian Westbrook, Ricky Williams.

WIDE RECEIVERS (23): Anquan Boldin, Troy Brown (also PR/KR), Donald Driver, Antonio Freeman, Irving Fryar, Dante Hall, Devin Hester (also PR/KR), Torry Holt, Joe Horn, Andre Johnson, Chad Johnson, Brandon Marshall, Derrick Mason, Herman Moore, Muhsin Muhammad, Jordy Nelson, Andre Rison, Jimmy Smith, Rod Smith, Steve Smith Sr., Hines Ward, Reggie Wayne, Wes Welker.

TIGHT ENDS (3): Ben Coates, Antonio Gates, Wesley Walls.

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN (25): Willie Anderson (T), Bruce Armstrong (T/G), Matt Birk (C), Lomas Brown (T), Ruben Brown (G), Jahri Evans (G), Kevin Glover (C/G), Olin Kreutz (C), T.J. Lang (T), Matt Light (T), Nick Mangold (C), Logan Mankins (G), Tom Nalen (C), Nate Newton (G/T), Jeff Saturday (C), Mark Schlereth (G/C), Josh Sitton (G), Chris Snee (G), Mark Stepnoski (C), Dave Szott (G), Max Unger (C), Brian Waters (G), Richmond Webb (T), Erik Williams (T), Steve Wisniewski (G).

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN (20): John Abraham (DE also LB), Jared Allen (DE), Dwight Freeney (DE), La’Roi Glover (DT/NT), Casey Hampton (DT/NT), Robert Mathis (DE), Haloti Ngata (DT), Leslie O’Neal (DE), Julius Peppers (DE), Simeon Rice (DE), Justin Smith (DE), Neil Smith (DE), Dana Stubblefield (DT), Henry Thomas (DT/NT), Justin Tuck (DE), Ted Washington (NT/DT), Vince Wilfork (DT/NT), Jamal Williams (DT/NT), Kevin Williams (DT), Pat Williams (DT).

LINEBACKERS (25): Jesse Armstead, Brendon Ayanbadejo, Cornelius Bennett, Lance Briggs, Keith Brooking, NaVorro Bowman, Tedy Bruschi, Karlos Dansby, Donnie Edwards, James Farrior, London Fletcher, James Harrison, Larry Izzo, Willie McGinest (also DE), Hardy Nickerson, Ken Norton Jr., Bryce Paup, Julian Peterson, Joey Porter, Takeo Spikes, Jessie Tuggle, Mike Vrabel, Patrick Willis, Al Wilson, Lee Woodall.

DEFENSIVE BACKS (17): Eric Allen (CB), Kam Chancellor (S), Nick Collins (DB), Antonio Cromartie (CB), Dré Bly (DB), Merton Hanks (S), Rodney Harrison (S), Carnell Lake (DB), Tim McDonald (S), Eugene Robinson (DB), Samari Rolle (DB), Allen Rossum (DB), Bob Sanders (S), Charles Tillman (CB), Troy Vincent (CB), Antoine Winfield (DB), Darren Woodson (S).

PUNTERS/KICKERS (15): David Akers (K), Gary Anderson (K), Darren Bennett (P), Jason Elam (K), Jeff Feagles (P), Jason Hanson (K), John Kasay (K), Sean Landeta (P), Shane Lechler (P), Brad Maynard (P), Pat McAfee (P), Brian Moorman (P), Matt Stover (K), Matt Turk (P), Mike Vanderjagt (K).

SPECIAL TEAMS (2): Josh Cribbs (KR/PR also WR), Brian Mitchell (KR/PR also RB).

***

It’s wonderful to see former Minnesota Vikings greats Jared Allen, Henry Thomas, Kevin Williams, Pat Williams, and Antoine Winfield among the nominees. Of those, Allen has an excellent shot at finally getting his deserved bust this year. I believe that Kevin Williams will eventually make it to Canton but his wait probably continues. Thomas and Winfield should have their great careers discussed by the voters. They were wildly underrated while they were playing. I imagine their careers will be wildly underrated amongst the voters. 

Other than the first-year headliners, those with the best shot each year are those that were finalists the year before.  

Devin Hester

Tory Holt

Andre Johnson

Reggie Wayne

Willie Anderson

Jared Allen

Dwight Freeney

Patrick Willis

Darren Woodson

The receiver logjam continues to build.

If I was to guess the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024, I’d start with Julius Peppers and Antonio Gates. From that starting point, I’d probably end up with the following five-member modern era Class:

Julius Peppers

Antonio Gates

Jared Allen

Devin Hester

Patrick Willis

Senior finalists Randy Gradishar, Steve McMichael, and Art Powell and Coach/Contributor finalist Buddy Parker would round out the nine-member Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024. 

The list of 173 nominees will be reduced to 25 semifinalists in November. That list will be further whittled to 15 finalists. The selection committee will meet early next year in advance of the Super Bowl to discuss the 19 finalists and vote on the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024. 

Minnesota Vikings Add An Offensive Lineman

Minnesota Vikings fans have been pining for their team to sign free agent guard Dalton Risner for months. That pining was finally rewarded. The Vikings signed Risner on Monday. It’s a one-year deal worth $4 million, with $2.25 million guaranteed at signing. 

Risner was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He was an immediate starter at left guard. That’s where he played for all of his 62 starts over four years in Denver. Vikings offensive line coach Chris Kuper was the Broncos assistant offensive line coach from 2019-21. Vikings assistant offensive line coach Justin Rascati also coached with the Broncos from 2019-21. There’s familiarity with Risner in the Vikings offensive line room. 

Through two games, both losses, the Vikings have struggled to run the ball. It’s been one of the team’s biggest issues. The play of the offensive line isn’t the lone reason for those issues but it is a reason. Injuries haven’t helped. Center Garrett Bradbury has missed all but the first seven snaps of the first game. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw missed all of the second game. His replacement, Oli Udoh, was lost for the season. The Vikings were down to their third left tackle in the fourth quarter of their Week 2 game. The Vikings need improved play from the offensive line and they need healthy offensive linemen. Risner was signed to provide both. He immediately replaces Udoh in the offensive line room and on the roster. He might soon replace one of the current starters on the field. $4 million for the remainder of the season is closer to starter money than swing-guard money. That’s more than either of the two current starting guards, left guard Ezra Cleveland and right guard Ed Ingram. It’s fairly safe to project that Risner will replace one of them perhaps as soon as this Sunday. While with the Broncos, Risner played solely on the left side. He played right tackle at Kansas State. Stepping in as the Vikings left guard should be a breeze. I don’t think that stepping in as the right guard would take much of an adjustment. I believe that both options are possible. Right now, Ingram appears to be struggling more than Cleveland. I’d rather see Risner at right guard and keep Cleveland at left guard. Perhaps it’s just me but I prefer as little upheaval as possible. Putting Risner on the left side and bumping Cleveland to right impacts both sides of the line. Simply putting Risner on the right, between veterans Bradbury and Brian O’Neill, impacts only the right side. But that’s just me.. I’m simply sitting in a comfy chair watching it all. 

Some might say that this is a move the Vikings should’ve made weeks, even months, ago. The team has used first- and second- round picks to put the offensive line together. Those are high end picks for high end talent. The five played together all of last year. Continuity on the offensive line is a big deal. All five players were going to get, and should get, every opportunity to be the offensive line moving forward. So far, it’s been rough. The tackles are set with left tackle Christian Darrisaw (when he’s healthy) and right tackle Brian O’Neill. The duo have the potential to be one of the best bookend tackles in the league. The Vikings interior offensive line has been wildly inconsistent. Hopefully the addition of Dalton Risner will raise the level of play and the consistency. Some might say that it couldn’t get worse. One thing that’s certain is that Risner improves the talent in the offensive line room and gives the Vikings a solid option at a position of significant need.

And the fans finally get their savior. 

Flea Flicker Week 2 Predictions

The Minnesota Vikings played on Thursday so this is a depleted slate of Sunday games. Here are guesses at the outcomes. 

Green Bay Packers @ Atlanta Falcons

Pick: Falcons

Just a hunch

Las Vegas Raiders @ Buffalo Bills

Pick: Bills

The Bills rebound.

Baltimore Ravens @ Cincinnati Bengals

Pick: Bengals

The Bengals rebound.

Seattle Seahawks @ Detroit Lions

Pick: Seahawks

Geno Smith vs Jared Goff. Scintillating. 

Los Angeles Chargers @ Tennessee Titans

Pick: Chargers

Both teams dropped Week 1 games they could’ve won. 

Chicago Bears @ Tampa Bay Bucccaneers

Pick: Buccaneers

The Buccaneers were lucky in Week 1.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Pick: Chiefs

The Chiefs rebound.

Indianapolis Colts @ Houston Texans

Pick: Colts

The Colts nearly shocked the Jaguars in Week 1. They should handle the Texans in Week 2.

San Francisco 49ers @ Los Angeles Rams

Pick: 49ers

The 49ers should cruise.

New York Giants @ Arizona Cardinals

Pick: The Giants have to play better than they did in Week 1. Right?

New York Jets @ Dallas Cowboys

Pick: Cowboys

This could be a fun defensive game.

Washington Commanders @ Denver Broncos

Pick: Commanders

The Commanders find a way to get their second win.

Miami Dolphins @ New England Patriots

Pick: Patriots

The Patriots find a way. 

New Orleans Saints @ Carolina Panthers

Pick: Panthers

Bryce Young gets his first NFL win.

Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Pick: Steelers

The NFL jams a second game onto Monday night. Why? And they’ll do it again next week. Why?

Minnesota Vikings Week 2 Superlatives

The Minnesota Vikings continued their generous ways against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday night.

Perhaps lost in the disappointing loss is the fact that the Vikings played one of the best teams in the league pretty much even. A big reason for that are these players.

Offensive Player of the Game

Justin Jefferson, WR

When the Vikings and Eagles played last year, Darius Slay was the apparent star of the matchup with Justin Jefferson. This year, Jefferson basically did anything he wanted. Other than actually get the ball in the end zone. 

11 catches

159 yards

Thursday night, Jefferson was arguably the best player on the football field. 

Defensive Player of the Game

Danielle Hunter, OLB

It’s tempting to go with the solid games from Camryn Bynum, Byron Murphy Jr., and Jordan Hicks but it’s Danielle Hunter. Again. 

3 sacks

8 tackles

The Eagles ran the ball so damn well that Jalen Hurts didn’t drop back much. Despite a modest number of opportunities, Hunter sacked Hurts three times. I can’t wait to see what Hunter can do when pass rushing partner Marcus Davenport is finally on the field with him.

Special Teams Player of the Game

Ryan Wright, P

Imagine what this game might’ve been if Brandon Powell hadn’t fumbled at the end of his terrific punt return. He might’ve even been this week’s Special Teams Player of the Game. Sadly, Powell did fumble at the end of his terrific punt return and the game went as it did. Anyway, Ryan Wright takes home Special Teams Player of the Game. Again. 

3 punts

157 yards

52.3 yards/punt. 

The Eagles returned only one of the three punts for two yards. It would’ve been an even better punting performance if the Vikings had managed to recover the fumble they forced.

Vikings - Eagles

Through two games, the Minnesota Vikings can’t get out of their own way. They gave the game to the Tampa Bay Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. Four days later, the gave the game to the Philadelphia Eagles.  It’s a very generous way to play football and it has to stop. 

34-28 Eagles.

Three turnovers on Sunday. Four more last night. Despite the generosity with the football, the Vikings lost the two games by a total of nine points. 

Mass Momentum Plays.

The Eagles recent short-yardage strategy is a throwback to the very gory days of football. Days of maimings and even death. There’s nothing innovative about their formation or execution. The play is literally one of the oldest in football’s history. It tracks to the 1800s and it nearly got the sport banned. Mass momentum plays are plays involving running all eleven offensive players into a single point in the defensive front. These plays often resulted in broken necks, cracked skulls, broken bones, and even deaths. Removing the play from football saved the sport. The Eagles dusting off the play off and running it in short-yardage situations returns the league to those gory days and could jeopardize the sport again. It will injure players, perhaps permanently. The league’s decision-makers considered banning it again this past offseason but decided against it. It’ll probably take the crippling of a quarterback for the play to be banned from football for a second time. 

Last night, the Eagles scored two touchdowns and converted a key fourth down with their once-banned mass momentum play.

Most Ridiculous Rule In Football.

The most ridiculous rule in football awarded the Eagles possession of the football despite doing nothing to gain possession of it. Late in the first half, Kirk Cousins connected on a 30-yard pass to Justin Jefferson inside the Eagles 10-yard line. He headed for the end zone, lunged, and reached out with the football. When an offensive player loses possession of the football into and out of the end zone, an archaic and non-sensical rule awards the ball to the defense. If an offensive player fumbles the football out of bounds anywhere else on the football field, the ball is returned to the offense at the spot of the fumble. For some ridiculous reason, the rule changes for the end zone. The defense is awarded possession despite never possessing the football. Ridiculous.

The Eagles were awarded possession of the football for giving up a big play to Jefferson. The Eagles turned the gift they did nothing to earn into a long field goal before the half. The most ridiculous rule in football turned into a possible 10-point swing to the Eagles. Ridiculous.

34-28.

The Vikings generosity with the football was the biggest reason for the loss. Beyond that generosity, the Vikings run game and run defense was a problem. 

Look at these numbers:

Rush yards:

Vikings: 28

Eagles: 259

Rushing First Downs:

Vikings: 0

Eagles: 19

Time of Possession:

Vikings: 20:32

Eagles: 39:28

Those are silly differentials.

That time of possession was huge. The Vikings defense was probably gassed with all of the time that they  spent battling the Eagles terrific offensive line. The rush yards surely got easier to come by. Giving the ball back prematurely to the Eagles offense with those four fumbles didn’t help. 

The Vikings could so easily be 2-0. Kirk Cousins, Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson, and Jordan Addison, and the defense as a whole are playing well enough to be 2-0. Reality has them at 0-2. 

The Vikings now have a mini-bye to hopefully figure out how to get out of their own way. 

Philadelphia Eagles All - Time Team

The Minnesota Vikings visit the Philadelphia Eagles tonight. The Eagles have a long, confusing, interesting history in the league. They’ve collected four league titles (1948, 1949, 1960, and 2017). On the day of the big game, here’s a look at some of the best players in Philadelphia franchise history. 

Philadelphia Eagles All - Time Team

Offense

Quarterback

Norm Van Brocklin

Running Back

Steve Van Buren

Fullback

Keith Byars 

Wide Receivers

Tommy McDonald

Harold Carmichael

Tight End

Pete Pihos 

Offensive Tackles

Jason Peters

Al Wistert

Offensive Guards

Evan Mathis

Brandon Brooks

Center

Jason Kelce

Defense

Defensive Ends

Reggie White

Clyde Simmons

Defensive Tackles

Fletcher Cox

Jerome Brown

Linebackers

Chuck Bednarik

Maxie Baughan

Seth Joyner

Cornerbacks

Eric Allen 

Troy Vincent

Safeties

Brian Dawkins

Bill Bradley

Special Teams

Kicker 

David Akers

Punter

Donnie Jones

Kick Returner

Timmy Brown

Minnesota Vikings 53 - Man Roster

An NFL roster is never set for long. In a procedural move, the Minnesota Vikings released running back Myles Gaskin from the active roster, signed him to the practice squad, and then elevated him for the Week 1 game. It’s a yo-yo-like experience that often happens during the first week of an NFL season. The Vikings roster is set, for now, and Gaskins is on it. 

Minnesota Vikings 53-Man Roster

Offense (25)

Quarterback (3)

  8 Kirk Cousins

12 Nick Mullens

16 Jaren Hall

Running Back (3)

  2 Alexander Mattison

32 Ty Chandler

37 Myles Gaskins

Fullback (1)

30 C.J. Ham

Wide Receiver (5)

18 Justin Jefferson

17 K.J. Osborn

  3 Jordan Addison

83 Jalen Nailor

19 Brandon Powell

Tight End (4)

87 T. J. Hockenson

84 Josh Oliver

86 Johnny Mundt

34 Nick Muse

Offensive Linemen (9)

71 Christian Darrisaw

72 Ezra Cleveland

56 Garrett Bradbury 

67 Ed Ingram

75 Brian O’Neill

76 David Quessenberry

64 Blake Brandel

65 Austin Schlottman

74 Oli Udoh

Defense (25)

Defensive Line (5)

94 Dean Lowry

95 Khyiris Tonga

97 Harrison Phillips

93 Jonathan Bullard

78 Jaquelin Roy

Outside Linebacker (5)

99 Danielle Hunter

  0 Marcus Davenport

91 Patrick Jones

98 D.J.Wonnum

55 Andre Carter II

Inside Linebacker (4)

33 Brian Asamoah

58 Jordan Hicks

40 Ivan Pace Jr. 

45 Troy Dye 

Cornerback (5)

  7 Byron Murphy Jr.

21 Akayleb Evans

11 Mekhi Blackmon

23 Andrew Booth Jr.

36 Najee Thompson

Safety (6)

22 Harrison Smith

24 Camryn Bynum

  6 Lewis Cine

44 Josh Metellus

20 Jay Ward

25 Theo Jackson

Special Teams (3)

Kicker (1)

  1 Greg Joseph

Punter (1)

14 Ryan Wright

Long Snapper (1)

42 Andrew DePaola

Practice Squad

78 Hakeem Adeniji, OL

68 Henry Byrd, OL

35 C.J. Coldon Jr., CB

52 Sheldon Day, DL

13 N’Keal Harry, WR

15 Lucky Jackson, WR

  9 Trishton Jackson, WR

27 DeWayne McBride, RB

79 Tyrese Robinson, OL

50 T.J. Smith, DL

89 Thayer Thomas, WR

59 Nick Vigil, LB

43 Luiji Vilain, OLB

51 Benton Whitley, OLB

38 Jaylin Williams, CB

29 Joejuan Williams, CB

International Exemption

73 Junior Aho, DL

Injured Reserve

81 Malik Knowles, WR

47 William Kwenkeu, LB

92 James Lynch, DL

26 Kene Nwangwu

Reserve/Non-Football Injury

62 Chris Reed, G/C

Minnesota Vikings Week 1 Superlatives

The Minnesota Vikings kicked off the 2023 season in horrible fashion. They handed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers a 20-17 win. The Vikings couldn’t get out of their own way. In an effort to pull some good out of this terrible game, here are some of the players that managed to shine. 

Offensive Player of the Game

Justin Jefferson, WR

This one is easy. Justin Jefferson was unstoppable in the first half. Seven catches for 138 yards. Perhaps a reason for the loss, he had only two catches for 12 yards in the second half. The best cure for a sputtering offense is more Justin Jefferson. 

Rookie receiver Jordan Addison had a nice debut. Four catches, 61 yards, and a 39-yard touchdown. 

This Vikings offense should never be held to 17 points. 

Defensive Player of the Game

Danielle Hunter, OLB

The defense played well. They were suffocating for much of the first half. It would’ve been a great game if they’d made a couple of stops in the second half. It was a solid team effort. Danielle Hunter was a big reason for that. Seven tackles, a sack, and a couple tackles for loss. 

Special Teams Player of the Game

Ryan Wright, P

Greg Joseph was perfect on his three kicks but I’m going with the punter. Ryan Wright punted five times for 257 yards. A 51.4 average per punt. The Buccaneers returned four of them for only 29 yards. 

 

Vikings - Buccaneers

In their season-opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Minnesota Vikings honored legendary coach Bud Grant and his great teams of the late 1960s and early 1970s. They did so with a throwback look. Spiffy jerseys and a stadium makeover. Everything was great except the game. Bud Grant deserved better. 

The Vikings gave the game to the Buccaneers. 20-17.

The game felt like it could’ve been, should’ve been about 21-3 Vikings at the half. Instead, it was 10-10. As is often the case, turnovers were the difference. The Vikings gave the ball to the Buccaneers three times. The first and third ended promising drives and excellent scoring opportunities. The second gifted the Buccaneers a field goal. The first turnover was the most ridiculous as right guard Ed Ingram knocked the ball from Kirk Cousins’ grasp as the play started. That happened on the Buccaneers 26-yard line after a crisp 60-yard drive. The third turnover was an interception on the goal line. Cousins threw the ball slightly behind K.J. Osborn and had it snatched away. With a second-and-one from the Buccaneers 13-yard line at the end of the half, it looked like the Vikings were finally going to put their sputtering start behind them and take control of the game. 17-10 Vikings at the half was inevitable. Right? Nope.

Other than the field goal the Vikings gifted to them, the Buccaneers offense did nothing for most of the first half. The Vikings defense stifled everything that they tried. Just a bunch of punts. If there was a singular turning point in the game, it might’ve been with two minutes remaining in the first half. The Buccaneers faced a third-and-seven from their own 42-yard line. Up until that point they’d only converted one first down. For the first 28 minutes, the Vikings defense smothered everything that they tried. Instead of forcing a sixth first half punt, Patrick Jones II jumped the snap and gifted a much more manageable 3rd-and-two. The Buccaneers converted and were on their way. A few plays later, Baker Mayfield hit Mike Evans for a 28-yard touchdown to tie the game at 10. 

Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson was unstoppable in the first half. 138 yards. He finished with 150. Getting only 12 yards in the second half might’ve been one of the biggest reasons for this very disappointing, avoidable loss. The Vikings have several offensive weapons. They will and should spread the ball around. Despite all those weapons, the Vikings went three-and-out on their final two possessions. That can’t happen. And Jefferson should never have only 12 second half yards when more yards are needed. 

The Defense.

While the defense failed to get the needed stops at the end of the game, their play yesterday was a revelation. After last year’s defensive disaster, it was wonderful to see players racing to the ball rather than waiting for it to come to them. It would’ve been nice to get a turnover or two, or four, especially with the offense’s first half generosity. It was a nice start for Brian Flores and the defense. 

An offensive goal for the season is to run the ball more efficiently. That did not happen against the Buccaneers. With mountainous Vita Vea in the middle it’s tough to run against this defense. Still, the Vikings needed much more than 41 yards on 17 carries. 2.4 yards per carry is horrible and it doesn’t approach efficient. Losing center Garrett Bradbury to a back injury after only seven snaps didn’t help but the Vikings must do better on the ground. Second-and-longs simplifies things for the defense. 

I’m getting so sick of screen plays that are doomed from the start. Last year, it felt like Dalvin Cook was often served up for a killing with these damn screens. Yesterday, it was T.J. Hockenson. Twice he was thrown the ball with no hope for success. Twice he was blasted as soon as he caught the ball. These doomed screens to Hockenson were the first play on each of the final two possessions. The result was second-and-13 and second-and-14. The Vikings were clearly not fooling anyone with these damn plays. Those second-and-longs were a big reason for consecutive, game-ending three-and-outs. 

The reasons for this season-opening loss are pretty simple. Turnovers, a couple mind-numbing penalties, inefficient run game, and those two doomed screen plays. With a Thursday game in Philadelphia against the Eagles, the Vikings needed this game. They didn’t get it. Now, it’s time to stun the Eagles. 

Flea Flicker Week 1 Predictions

Football is finally here! Here’s a guess at the outcomes of today’s games. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Minnesota Vikings

Pick: Vikings

The Vikings must start the season with a win. It’s a moral imperative. 

Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons

Pick: Falcons

This could be a fun game. Both teams have begun an intriguing rebuild. 

Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns

Pick: Bengals

The Bengals are one of the league’s elite teams. The Browns are clawing to get there. 

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Indianapolis Colts

Pick: Jaguars

The Jaguars look poised for big things. 

Tennessee Titans @ New Orleans Saints

Pick: Titans

I’m not sure what to think of either team. 

San Francisco 49ers @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Pick: 49ers

With Nick Bosa finally back with the team, the 49ers look set to contend. Again. 

Arizona Cardinals @ Washington Commanders 

Pick: Commanders

I doubt that I’ll be picking the Cardinals in any games this year. 

Houston Texans @ Baltimore Ravens

Pick: Ravens

All Ravens. 

Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears

Pick: Packers

The Packers are playing without Aaron Rodgers on the roster for the first time in nearly 20 years. 

Las Vegas Raiders @ Denver Broncos

Pick: Raiders

With Russell Wilson and Sean Payton, the Broncos have taken big swings the last two seasons. I don’t much care for Wilson or Payton so I don’t much care for the direction of the Broncos. 

Philadelphia Eagles @ New England Patriots

Pick: Eagles

Rematch of Super Bowl LII. Same outcome. 

Miami Dolphins @ Los Angeles Chargers

Pick: Chargers

There might be a few points in this one. 

Los Angeles Rams @ Seattle Seahawks 

Pick: Seahawks

It’s kinda hard to believe that the Rams are only two seasons removed from a championship. 

Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants

Pick: Giants

Just going with the home team. And against the Cowboys. 

Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets

Pick: Bills

Rodgers fizzles in home opener.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers All - Time Team

While thinking about the Minnesota Vikings first opponent of the 2023 NFL season I can’t help but think about that team’s past. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been in the league since 1976. Initially, they were one of the worst teams in league history. Then they surprised everyone with a singular playoff run. Then they went into a long stretch of mediocrity. Things changed for the Buccaneers in the 2000s. They won Super Bowl XXXVII with an excellent defense. They won Super Bowl LV with Tom Brady. One of the peculiar aspects of the Buccaneers history is that the league jammed them into the NFC Central division. Geography be damned, from 1977-2001, the team from Florida competed in the same division with the Vikings, Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears, and Detroit Lions. On the eve of the Vikings season-opener, here’s an All - Time Tampa Bay Buccaneers Team. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers All - Time Team

Offense

Quarterback 

Tom Brady

Running Back

Warrick Dunn

Fullback

Mike AlScott 

Wide Receivers

Mike Evans

Chris Godwin

Tight End

Jimmie Giles

Tackles

Paul Gruber

Tristan Wirfs

Guards

Ali Marpet

Davin Joseph

Center

Tony Mayberry

Defense

Defensive Ends

Lee Roy Selmon

Simeon Rice

Defensive Tackles

Warren Sapp

Gerald McCoy

Linebackers

Derrick Brooks

Hardy Nickerson

Lavonte David

Cornerbacks

Ronde Barder

Donnie Abraham

Safeties

John Lynch

Cedric Brown

Special Teams

Kicker

Martin Gramatica

Punter

Josh Bidwell

Kick Returner

Micheal Spurlock

Punt Returner

Karl Williams

Minnesota Vikings “Unofficial” Depth Chart

The Minnesota Vikings released an “unofficial” depth chart in advance of Sunday’s season-opening game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Minnesota Vikings “Unofficial” Depth Chart

Offense (25 players)

Quarterbacks

Starter:

Kirk Cousins

Backups: 

Nick Mullens, Jaren Hall

Running Backs

Starter:

Alexander Mattison

Backups: 

Ty Chandler, Myles Gaskin

Fullbacks

Starter:

C.J. Ham

Wide Receivers

Starters:

Justin Jefferson and K.J. Osborn

Backups:

Jalen Nailor and Jordan Addison

Brandon Powell

Tight Ends

Starter:

T.J. Hockenson

Backups:

Josh Oliver, Johnny Mundt, Nick Muse

Tackles

Starters:

Christian Darrisaw (LT) and Brian O’Neill (RT)

Backups:

David Quessenberry (LT) and Oli Udoh (RT)

Interior Offensive Linemen

Starters:

Ezra Cleveland (LG), Garrett Bradbury (C), and Ed Ingram (RG)

Backups:

Austin Schlottman (C), and Blake Brandel (RG)

Defense (25 players)

Outside Linebackers

Starters:

Danielle Hunter and Marcus Davenport

Backups:

Patrick Jones II and D.J. Wonnum

Andre Carter II

Defensive Ends

Starters

Dean Lowry and Jonathan Bullard

Backups:

Jaquelin Roy

Nose Tackles

Starters:

Harrison Phillips

Backups:

Khyiris Tonga

Inside Linebackers 

Starters:

Brian Asamoah II (MLB) and Jordan Hicks (WLB)

Backups:

Troy Dye (MLB) and Ivan Pace Jr. (WLB)

Cornerbacks

Starters:

Byron Murphy Jr. and Akayleb Evans

Backups:

Mekhi Blackmon and Andrew Booth Jr.

NaJee Thompson

Safeties

Starters:

Harrison Smith and Camryn Bynum

Backups:

Josh Metellus and Lewis Cine

Jay Ward and Theo Jackson

Special Teams 

Kicker

Starter:

Greg Joseph

Punter/Holder

Starter:

Ryan Wright

Long Snapper

Starter

Andrew DePaola 

Kickoff Returner

Starter:

Ty Chandler

Backups: Brandon Powell

Punt Returner

Starter:

Brandon Powell

***

Teams have been doing it for years but it seems silly to have a team-released depth chart referred to as “unofficial.” It makes me think that some slappy intern throws the thing together. 

Ivan Pace Jr was the talk of training camp. Coaches, players, media, fans, everyone was talking about the undrafted rookie linebacker out of Cincinnati. He’d worked and played into starter conversation. It helped a bit that projected starter Brian Asamoah II was out for a couple weeks with an injury. No matter, some expected to see Pace atop the linebacker depth chart. There will be a time when Asamoah and Pace are the Vikings starting linebackers. Now isn’t that time. Jordan Hicks was voted a captain. His experience and leadership in the middle of the defense will be needed this year. For now, there’s some comfort in having Pace in reserve. He will see some defensive snaps. His football future is bright. 

Perhaps the one surprise of this depth chart is Jonathan Bullard as a starting defensive end. All summer, it was assumed that the starting defensive line trio was going to be Harrison Phillips and Dean Lowry as the ends and Khyiris Tonga as the nose tackle. There are five defensive linemen on the roster. There will be a rotation. That rotation will likely include some of the outside linebackers, Marcus Davenport in particular. 

Congratulations to Josh Metellus on the two-year contract extension announced yesterday. Despite not being a full-time defensive starter, he’s earned it. If only for his special teams play, he’s earned it. One of the most intriguing aspects of this Vikings defense will be how Brian Flores uses the varied talents of Metellus. Since the offseason, he’s lined up at his usual safety position, nickel safety, nickel corner, linebacker, whatever, wherever. In advance of the 2020 NFL Draft, I remember reading an evaluation of Metellus that stated “once he gets on the field, he won’t be coming off.” Heading into his fourth season, it looks like it might be playing out that way.