SB Nation User Blog: Andersklasen

Harvin Impressing at OTA's

Andersklasen — Fri, 22 May 2009 18:36:03 -0000

Harvin Impressing at OTA's

"It feels great," Harvin said. "There’s no better experience than what I’m going through right now. I’m glad to get the combine and all the stuff over with and finally lace it back up and get on the football field. It’s a wonderful feeling. …

"I can’t tell you where I’ll end up. We’re kind of doing a little bit of both, a little bit of plays running out of the backfield and some slot. They’re just trying to get me used to all the positions and I guess toward the end we’ll figure out what I’ll play."

Déjà Vu All Over Again?

Andersklasen — Wed, 20 May 2009 21:54:30 -0000

No, I am not going to write about Brett Fav-ruh. The mere mention of his name in my house has become a sin. Instead of discussing "You-Know-Who" I will take a brief delve back into the history of our Minnesota Vikings.

The year? 1993. The current quarterback? Sean Salisbury. The veteran new-comer? Jim McMahon.

via ultimatebearsfan.com

The Minnesota Vikings of 1992 were the first coached by Denny Green. After a brief stint as the head coach of the Stanford football team the Vikings brought him to lead their team to the promised land.

The 1992 season came and went, leaving an 11-5 record behind. After earning a Wild Card slot the Vikings then lost to the Redskins (who lost to San Francisco, who lost to Dallas, who won the Super Bowl that year). Behind center for the first few games of the season was Rich Gannon, who is officially given the credit of 12 starts on the year.

Actually, a virtual nobody by the name of Sean Salisbury was accumilating a significant amount of playing time thanks to less-than-stellar play from Gannon. On November 29 Salisbury was given credit for his first start of the season when the Vikings traveled to play the Los Angeles Rams. He threw for 238 yards, one interception, and no touchdowns. (Terry Allen kept the offense on pace during that contest, scoring a total of three times; twice on the ground, once through the air on a trick play from Keith Henderson.)

Salisbury would go on to start three of the next four games, leading the Vikings to a record of 3-1 during his starts. It also can't go without notice the fact that Salisbury out-threw the great "You-Know-Who" during the last game of the regular season. Salisbury threw two touchdowns and a total of 292 yards and no interceptions. That other guy? No touchdowns, three picks, and only 187 yards.

Gannon remained on the bench for the Wild Card game the next weekend and the 29-year old Salisbury was given perhaps the biggest oppurtunity of his life. He didn't deliver. Throwing just 113 yards, Salisbury totaled two picks and no touchdowns. The Vikings lost to the Redskins 24-7. (Remind anybody of our most recent Wild Card game?)

At this point, the debate of whether the Vikings should bring another quarterback on the roster raged in Minnesota. Jim McMahon, the successful quarterback from the Chicago Bears was available. Should the Vikings splurge, or was Salisbury enough to allow the Vikings to advance deeper than the Wild Card weekend next year?

Although there are conflicting reports regarding "He-Who-Shall-Go-Unnamed," will he be a better quarterback than McMahon was? McMahon was 34 when the Vikings brought him on the roster, and started twelve games in 1993. He would later leave the Vikings for the Eagles, where he would start just one game before eventually retiring after a few years of backup status.

I'm not going to sit here on my couch and tell you whether "You-Know-Who" is going to bring a Super Bowl to Minnesota or not. I will, however, post McMahon's 1993 stats below and let you decide for yourselves.

Year	Age	GS	QBrec	Cmp	Att	Cmp%	Yds	TD	Int	Y/A	Rate	Sk
1993	34	QB	8-4	200	331	60.4	1968	9	8	5.9	76.2	23

And it Begins...

Andersklasen — Tue, 05 May 2009 21:55:15 -0000

And it Begins...

ESPN is reporting that our very own Brad Childress will sit down with the "great" Brett Favre later this week to discuss playing for the Vikings.

Let the Second Great Drama begin...

The Loss of Nick Adenhart

Andersklasen — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 00:11:39 -0000

The Loss of Nick Adenhart

I'm sure you're all aware of the tragic death of 22-year old Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart. While this is a football blog, the loss of a human life transcends any sporting barriers we may put up. Please feel free to head over to Halos Heaven to pay your respects.

The Value-Vs.-Need Discussion: 2007 Draft Edition

Andersklasen — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 21:02:17 -0000

When it comes to the NFL Draft, every team wants to "win." They want to hit a homerun with a player that most teams will overlook and reap the rewards on the field. Easier said than done...

One of the most discussed quandaries the "big chesses" of NFL franchies have is whether to draft for value or for need. To help them out, let's take a look at the 2007 Draft.

More after the jump.

1st Round, 7th Overall - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma

This pick is recognized as the best thing to happen to Vikings fans in a long time. It's one of those times where you remember where you were. (I was listening on the radio in the backyard while working on a To-Do list. My reaction was mostly positive, but I would've liked to grab Quinn before he fell any further. I think I've changed my mind.)

With the seventh pick, the Vikings were sitting at the crossroads between 'elite' picks and 'top-tier' picks. With an epically bad secondary the year before, safety LaRon Landry would have been an ideal pick. Ted Ginn Jr. would fill a need, but was he worth the 7th pick?

As we all know, the Vikings couldn't pass up on a talent like Peterson - even though a talent like Quinn was still on the board. The Vikings clearly drafted Peterson as a value pick, and it's worked out fairly well, wouldn't you say?

2nd Round, 44th Overall - Sidney Rice, WR, South Carolina

This pick is a rarity in the NFL, and what every coach dreams of: a talented player who fills a need and isn't a reach. Rice, according to some draft experts, would have been a top-15 selection had he returned for his senior season in South Carolina.

The Vikings needed speed in their receiving corps, and Rice provided/is providing that. Rice hasn't played a full season yet, nor are his stats mindblowing, but he has shown glimpses of potential and should emerge as a very good receiver in the NFL. After all, he is only 22 years old.

3rd Round, 72nd Overall - Marcus McCauley, CB, Fresno State

At the time, this pick was viewed as one of the best of the draft. McCauley was held in high regard among draft experts, and the fact that he filled a need on the Minnesota roster only added icing to the cake.

McCauley hasn't exactly panned out as Vikings fans would have liked. In 2008, he started one game and totaled three tackles. Uh.. redo? Names like Trent Edwards or LaRon McLain - both of whom were drafted after McCauley - sound more appealing than McCauley.

Based on what you remember of the 2007 draft, what is the answer to my question? As a general rule, which is more important - drafting for value or drafting for need?

Andrew's 2009 Mock Draft: Ver. 1

Andersklasen — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:25:14 -0000

A quick note before we dive in:

(Note: This is "how they should draft," not necessarily "how they will draft." For example, the Lions might want to draft Curry, only because he is a safer pick than a guy like Stafford. This draft doesn't incorporate that aspect of the draft.)

This is intended to stir some debate here at DailyNorseman. My goal is not to create enemies, but rather to steer the Purple-People-Eater-Ship away from the Jay Cutler soap opera.

(I originally posted this elsewhere, so if you have seen this before, read it again!)

Let's get started!

1. Detroit Lions - Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia

This pick has gone back and forth more times than I can count. Either the Lions need a quarterback, or an offensive lineman to protect said quarterback.

Rare is the first-round quarterback who actually pans out to what he was hyped to be, but Stafford played in a very pro-like system in Georgia and showed great maturity and leadership in the pocket and out of it.

For those of you who worry about Stafford not having an offensive line to protect him, let's not forget that Detroit also has the 20th overall selection in the first round. With that pick they can still get an elite tackle prospect.

Whatever the case, Detroit is in a rebuilding mode. That fact cannot be debated. The Lions have a few great players on their roster, but are still a few players away from the end of incompetence.

That being said, Detroit can't ignore this opportunity to draft a potential franchise quarterback. They can't pass up on Stafford with hopes of drafting another franchise-caliber quarterback next year.

The Lions will improve with their first overall pick, no matter which way they decide to go. They are almost guaranteed not to receive the first overall pick of next year's draft. They need to jump on this chance and build a whole new team around Stafford. Who cares if he sits out for the first year or two?

The rest of the mock can be found after the jump.

2. St. Louis Rams - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

Anyone doubting the value of a combine showing obviously didn't watch any of Jason Smith. This offensive tackle had a magnificent performance on the biggest stage, and his paycheck will be his reward.

The St. Louis franchise is a mess. They need a superstar wide receiver, so Crabtree will be heavily debated in the Rams' war room. When it all boils down, though, an offensive tackle is one of the most important positions of a successful football team.

The Rams need a face for the franchise, and Crabtree could provide that. If the quarterback throwing balls to him doesn't have adequate protection, however, all is for naught.

The second overall pick is an extremely valuable commodity, and the Rams could "get rich quick" if they choose to unload it.

Quite frankly, what they need most is depth and new faces. If they traded down they could still get an elite tackle and grab an extremely capable receiver in a later round.

3. Kansas City Chiefs - Aaron Curry, ILB, Wake Forest

Many people have jumped on the Curry bandwagon following a super 2008 campaign and a great Combine showing. Some even go so far as to project him as the first overall pick, but I would beg to differ.

Aaron Curry is one of the safest picks in the entire draft. There is little doubt that he will be a Pro-Bowl caliber linebacker, and would improve any team.

That being said, certain positions have more value than others; a team with a need at every position would take a quarterback or offensive tackle over an inside linebacker any day of the week.

The Chiefs have glaring needs at other positions, but Curry is just too talented to pass up.

This pick is seen by many as a pure value pick, but the Chiefs do have a need at inside linebacker after their switch to the 3-4, and few people doubt Curry's ability to perform well in any defensive system.

4. Seattle Seahawks - Mark Sanchez, QB, USC

Some people think that the addition of Housmandzadeh means the Seahawks are clearly out of the running for Crabtree. That is untrue. Housh will be 32 years old by the 2009 season, and isn't a long-term solution in any sense of the word. They need a receiver for the next decade, and if you think Deion Branch is that option, quit making me laugh.

On the other hand, Matt Hasselbeck will be 34 years old for the majority of the 2009 season, and a replacement at that position is inevitable. With a new management coming in, a new approach is also inevitable.

What better way to turn a franchise around than drafting a franchise quarterback? Unlike the Lions, there is no need to rush Sanchez to the field as a rookie, so he can spend at least two years under the tutelage of Hasselbeck before he rides into the sunset.

Eugene Monroe is another possible option here, and is probably the second option for the Seahawks after Crabtree. Again, Sanchez is who they should take, not who they will take.

5. Cleveland Browns - Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas

Last year, new addition Shaun Rogers had 4.5 sacks. That is a respectable amount for a defensive tackle, but the fact that he led the team in that category is ridiculous and inexcusable.

The Browns could not get to the opposing quarterback in 2008, and that is one of the biggest reasons they have the fifth overall pick.

Mangini would surrender an appendage for Curry with this pick, but he is off the board. Orakpo is a superb defensive player and would provide some much needed relief for this defense.

6. Cincinnati Bengals - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

After the departure of Houshmandzadeh, the Bengals are left with Chad Johnson, and all the baggage that comes with him. The smart thing for Cincinnati to do would be to send Johnson to someone who would want and overpay for him (Al Davis comes to mind) and then draft Crabtree.

Crabtree is the best receiver in this draft, and the Bengals could start wiping their roster clean if they added him. Cincinnati has other needs, such as offensive tackle, but to pass up on Crabtree would be a mistake.

7. Oakland Raiders - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

Once Al Davis finishes crying big wet tears at the absence of Crabtree, he will most likely draft a running back or receiver with a quick 40 time. (Chris Wells or Jeremy Maclin come to mind.)

The sensible thing for the Raiders would be to *gasp* address a need. Monroe is an excellent pass defender and will fill a huge hole in Oakland.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars - B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

Until recently, offensive tackle was the biggest need on this squad, but the signing of Tra Thomas blew out that candle.

The Jaguars also need a cornerback badly. They could easily go for a guy like Vontae Davis in this scenario, but they shouldn't pass up a talent like Raji.

Raji was phenomenal at the Senior Bowl, and climbed up draft boards across the nation. He will solidify the defensive line of the Jaguars for years to come.

9. Green Bay Packers - Everette Brown, DE/OLB, Florida State

Vontae Davis will be extremely tempting here, but McCarthy has expressed his desire to remain with Woodson at cornerback. They should probably address another need with this high pick.

The biggest news out of Green Bay this year has probably been the fact that they are going to switch to the 3-4 defense. Kampman will become a linebacker, but they still need another of that position to compliment him.

Brown is a great athlete and will provide some much-needed quarterback pressure to a team that lacked in that department last year.

10. San Francisco 49ers - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

If there is one guy I feel sorry for in this upcoming draft, it's Mike Singletary. The 49ers need a quarterback, and may not have another opportunity to get one.

With an elite quarterback prospect under center, though, his busting is inevitable with the offensive line that San Francisco boasts.

The defense of the 49ers is also very worrisome. The one thing San Francisco needs is a sure thing, and, until recently, Smith was just that. His disastrous Combine appearance hurt both his future paycheck and his position on draft boards. While the intangibles of Smith may be in doubt, his skill set is a sure thing.

While the 49ers may be drafting a headcase with a poor work-ethic, Andre Smith has the ability to shore up a rebuilding team.

11. Buffalo Bills - Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

After the release of Terrell Owens, I was expected a huge media circus and the ensuing soap opera Owens would feel compelled to deliver.

Within hours, however, the Bills agreed to terms with the disgruntled receiver. That move will make Lee Evans a super option for the Bills, and return the Buffalo air threat to a high level.

There is still no real tight end on the team, but they shouldn't feel the need to grab Brandon Pettigrew with this pick. They can scoop up a guy like Jared Cook or Shawn Nelson in the later rounds.

Jackson would provide an instant impact on the Bills' defensive line. Aaron Schobel spent most of the season injured and the defensive end need should have been elevated to "urgent."

I was tempted to go with Aaron Maybin, but his inability to carry added weight scares me. Buffalo should stick with a sure thing.

12. Denver Broncos - Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB, Penn State

The way the Denver Broncos defense performed last year was an atrocity. No fanbase should ever be forced to watch that.

They surrendered the fourth most yards per game, second most yards per play, and the third most points per game in the entire league. Without a doubt, that needs to improve if the Broncos want to win more games.

Maybin removed himself from any top-ten discussion when he showed up to the Combine overweight and unable to carry himself effectively.

Brian Cushing and Vontae Davis would be possibilities here, but Denver needs to solidify their defensive line first and foremost.

13. Washington Redskins - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi

With the release of Jason Taylor, the Redskins find themselves with a dire need at the right tackle position. They signed Albert Haynesworth to a record-setting deal on the other side of the trench, but the fact remains that any quarterback without an offensive line cannot reach his full potential.

Oher hurt himself with his poor showing during the Combine, but his talent is still very evident.

14. New Orleans Saints - Malcom Jenkins, CB/FS, Ohio State

Three words: Harper, Bullocks and Kaesviharn. Those guys were the starting safeties for the Saints last year, and the world would most likely end if they were allowed to start again in 2009.

The Saints need desperately to help that secondary, and Jenkins is a perfect fit.

Jenkins has the versatility to play both cornerback and safety, but he would be drafted for the bigger need; which became free safety after the signing of Jabari Greer.

Jenkins didn't play the best at the Combine, but still has a great skillset.

15. Houston Texans - Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia

Once again, this probably isn't the move the Texans will make. Houston has a need at safety, offensive line, and linebacker, but picking any player at those positions would be dipping into second-round talent. Picking Moreno here would be a safe choice.

As evidenced by the Minnesota Vikings, a team with a great running back duo can still be very good despite a few holes. The Vikings have arguably the best running duo in the game, but an average offensive line, poor secondary, and horrible quarterback. Despite that, they made the Playoffs.

With Steve Slaton and Moreno in the backfield, the Texans will make numerous appearances in the nightmares of the Colts.

16. San Diego Chargers - Brian Cushing, OLB, USC

The Chargers are in a tough spot with this pick. They desperately need a right tackle, but picking a guy like Eben Britton would be a reach. They need safety help, but Louis Delmas is also not worthy of the pick.

Jeremy Maclin still on the board is a bit of a shock, but the Chargers shouldn't feel the need to bite.

Cushing has the ability to fit both inside and outside and would provide San Diego with excellent versatility. Rey Maualuga will be tempting, but the Chargers should opt for the former home-town kid.

17. New York Jets - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri

With the departure of Brett Favre, a hole is created at the quarterback position, but it is not as huge as people believe.

Clemens is not a great quarterback, that much is obvious. He can manage a team and throw the ball downfield, however.

Any quarterback option right now would not be worth the pick for the Jets. Josh Freeman remains on the board, but I am not sold on his ability to be a franchise quarterback.

Anything that would improve Clemens is a good thing for Jets fans. Coles was cut this offseason, and someone is needed to play alongside Cotchery. Maclin is worth a top 15 pick, but for him to fall into the Jets' laps here is a gift they can't pass up.

18. Chicago Bears - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona

John St. Claire is waiting patiently in free agency for a team to sign him, and that means the Bears are desperate for a right tackle. Britton may be a bit of a reach, but he certainly fills a huge need.

For those fans who would like to see Chris Wells drafted here to form a "great, dynamic rushing duo," well, it just doesn't work that way.

The Bears could also go defensive end or wide receiver here, but they need a tackle more than ever. If St. Claire is re-signed, this pick will obviously change to someone like Harvin or even Pettigrew.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State

I'm convinced that Freeman is the third best quarterback in this draft, but he could still be an effective "face of the franchise."

Tampa Bay has lacked that element for a long time, and they need a young quarterback.

With a new management coming in, the Buccaneers will not want to play football for long with "another guy." They want a quarterback of their own choosing, and Freeman fits that description.

20. Detroit Lions - William Beatty, OT, Connecticut

If the Lions don't take an offensive lineman after drafting Stafford, I will consider starting a rally of protest and demand a redraft.

I could see the Lions going offensive tackle with the first pick, and then hope one of Sanchez or Freeman falls to them here, but that isn't the case in this mock.

Tampa Bay will take a quarterback, and the chances of Sanchez or Freeman falling past 18 teams is very slim.

Beatty is a solid offensive tackle, and that is exactly what the Lions need most. If they draft a quarterback with the first pick, I cannot imagine them going any other direction with this pick.

21. Philadelphia Eagles - Chris "Beanie" Wells, RB, Ohio State

The Eagles need to address their offensive line with one of their first round picks. Alex Mack is a possibility here, but that would be a bit of a reach. With a talent like Wells still on the board, the Eagles can't pass.

Westbrook was recently extended, but he has had problems staying healthy, and Wells would provide a great insurance policy. My guess is that Andy Reid would disagree with this pick, but he will probably get out-voted in the war room.

22. Minnesota Vikings - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois

The Vikings are one of five teams with a need for a quarterback in the first round, and at 22 they will probably find themselves looking straight at a season with Rosenfels under center.

Unless they trade up (which is a strong possibility) the Vikings need to address either right tackle or the secondary. With no tackles on the board worth the pick, they should grab Davis before he falls any further.

23. New England Patriots - Clay Matthews, OLB, USC

After unloading Cassel's salary to the Chiefs along with linebacker Vrabel, the Patriots are in need of an outside linebacker. Matthews is not a huge reach here, and he fills perhaps the biggest New England need.

The combination of Mayo and Matthews scares me, and it should also frighten any other team in that powerful division.

If New England somehow manages to trade up and draft Curry, I'll almost concede to them an appearance in the Super Bowl. As it is, with Matthews the AFC East is their's for the taking.

24. Atlanta Falcons - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State

Matt Ryan is just a few players away from becoming an elite quarterback. With a weapon like Pettigrew dropping to them at 24, Atlanta will do its part and help out their young quarterback.

Pettigrew has hands of glue, and is great after the catch. When that is coupled with his blocking skills, the Falcons will have another playoff-caliber season in 2009.

They could easily go with someone to bolster their offensive line, but besides Alex Mack there really is no option worthy of this pick.

25. Miami Dolphins - Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut

The Dolphins were the surprise of last year, and the feel-good story of the season. Chad Pennington led them to the Playoffs, but there were still a few holes on their roster. Perhaps the biggest of those was in the secondary.

The one thing Miami could use more of out of their secondary is turnovers. Butler may be a reach, but he fills a need and will be moved right into the starting position beside veteran Will Allen.

26. Baltimore Ravens - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC

Ray Lewis, perhaps the most feared defender in the league, is getting up in years, and without him the Ravens do not the same defense they are known for.

There are other needs on this team, namely receiver and tight end, but Maualuga is a top-20 talent and fills a need for Baltimore.

Harvin will be extremely tempting, as will Nicks, but they shouldn't pass up a great player like Maualuga.

27. Indianapolis Colts - Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi

The Colts need a receiver, and most fans want a receiver, but the smart thing for Indianapolis would be to shore up their defensive line. They need to be able to stop the run if they want to keep up with the rising Houston Texans.

Jerry is not a reach at this point, and he fills a hole.

28. Philadelphia Eagles - Alex Mack, C, California

The Eagles need another big body for their offensive line sometime in this first round, and Mack is a good option here at 28.

Mack is the kind of center you can build your team around for the next 15 years. The Eagles may be reaching a bit simply because of Mack's position, but they should be able to justify themselves.

Center is not necessarily the position they need, but Philadelphia could use an upgrade there.

Another option, should they not go the offensive line route, would be an offensive threat. A tight end is needed, but at this point there is none worthy of a first-round pick.

29. New York Giaints - Percy Harvin, WR, Florida

Thanks to excellent front office work, the Giants have no real needs heading into the draft. Once they are on the clock, they will have the luxury of being able to select the best player available.

Plaxico Burress should not be trusted with the No. 1 receiver role after his "accident." Harvin will provide much versatility and can help the Giants in more ways than one.

If New York has one need this offseason, it is at the receiver position, and Harvin fills that hole completely.

30. Tennessee Titans - Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest

The Titans are also in a great position come this draft. They needed a receiver, but after signing Nate Washington they should get depth at another position with this pick.

Alphonso Smith is a very underrated prospect, and should pan out well in the Tennessee system.

Cornerback Nate Smith is going to be 34 years old come next season, and his replacement needs to be found. The Titans will build for the future with this pick.

31. Arizona Cardinals - Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina

The Cardinals need a running back. With both Moreno and Wells off the board, however, there really is no other option worthy of a first-round pick.

LeSean McCoy is a possibility, but he is most likely a second-round pick.

The Cardinals should trade Boldin while his value is high. They could get more picks to add the one thing they need most: depth. If they trade Boldin, they need to draft a receiver to draw safeties away from Fitzgerald, and Nicks fits the bill.

32. Pittsburgh Steelers - Darrius-Hayward Bey, WR, Maryland

The Steelers are in a great position this draft, and will be able to draft the best overall athlete.

They really have no needs, but could stand for some improvement in their secondary. Sean Smith or Coye Francies are options, but I think the Steelers go for another offensive playmaker.

Bey had the fasted 40 time at the Combine this year; which is not very impressive considering how poorly literally everyone ran at that event.

Still, his speed is unquestionably great, and he will be a field-stretcher for the defending World Champions.

An Update on Minnesota Sports

Andersklasen — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 01:29:54 -0000

As Gonzo pointed out below, All is Quiet on the Northern Front. I havn't been nearly as active as I would like to be, partly due to the fact that absolutely nothing is happening. It could just be a matter of perspective, but many of us are getting very fed up with this lack of activity.

To keep our minds away from the current status of Cutler's house on the market (seven bathrooms and a dog run? Seriously?), or the current age of Torry Holt here is a brief look at the current state of the other Minnesota sports.

MLB - Minnesota Twins

The Minnesota Twins, currently enjoying life with no snow in Fort Myers, Florida, are sporting an 8-6 record in the Grapefruit league. While that is good enough for fourth place, it really has no meaning at all.

The addition of Joe Crede has been the biggest news to come out of the Twin Cities for quite a while now, and his performance come Opening Day is highly anticipated.

In other news, Joe Mauer is looking at another possible stint on the DL. One of the most discussed things right now among Twins fans is what they should do if Mauer is forced to sit out a month or more.

NCAA Basketball - Minnesota Golden Gophers

Following a loss to Michigan State, the Golden Gophers find themselves perched on the preverbial "bubble." How much of a chance do they have to earn a seeding in the March Madness Tournament, which starts next Thursday? (Well, techincally Tuesday, but nobody cares about the play-in game.)

Selection Sunday will be held on CBS tomorrow afternoon. Some "experts" believe the Gophers are a lock for the tournament, but did that (expected) loss to the Spartans hurt them any? We'll find out soon enough...

NHL - Minnesota Wild

Through 68 games, the Wild are just below the cut-off line in the Western Conference. I'm not going to pretend that I know a single thing about hockey, so I won't offer any analysis or opinions.

I do know, however, that Marian Gaborlik trade rumors are heating up. He becomes a free agent on July 1, and seems determined to test the free agent market as he has refused offers from the Wild front office.

Gaborlik is recovering from injury right now, but should be able to provide any team he ends up with a great stretch run.

NBA - Minnesota Timberwolves

More attention is being paid to the upcoming draft than any particular game in Timberwolf land. With a record of 19-46, the T-Wolves aren't the worst team in the league, but they should have a fairly good shot at a good draft pick.

Feel free to discuss the state of other Minnesotan sports for a while before we jump right back into the Vikings.

What Football Is All About

Andersklasen — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:10:46 -0000

One and done? The Vikings have signed yet another veteran quarterback, and all signs are that Childress and Co. are content.

That's not saying things have to remain stoic for another two months. Nate Washington and TJ Housh have both expressed interest in the Vikings, although the possibility of them donning purple next year seem very slim.

Regardless, be sure to keep tabs on the continuing free agency story lines throughout the week. Directly below is an open thread dedicated to the first day of free agency.

I will spare you from my rants directed at the Vikings, and bring you something I wrote a while ago based on a game from last year that included almost every aspect of a perfect football game.

I have been blessed with a family that shares my love for football. On Sunday afternoon, you can find every television tuned into a game and every computer following a fantasy team. For those who live with someone who does not understand what keeps you busy for over six hours every Sunday, I feel your pain.

You must be in a constant battle over the merits of watching grown men hit each other while trying to advance an odd-shaped ball down a rectangular field. We all know that football is much more than that, and this past Bears-Falcons game couldn't have been a more perfect example.

The Atlanta Falcons and Chicago Bears were among the two most surprising teams in the league before entering this game. The Falcons are one year removed from a certain dog-fighting incident and are led by their first-round draft pick, Matt Ryan. The Bears were predicted to have little to no success in 2008.

Before Sunday, Oct. 12, both of these teams were 3-2.

Officially, Chicago was given the advantage in this matchup. Unofficially, this was going to be a very close game.

It started out innocently enough. At halftime, only field goals had been scored, and the Falcons led 9-3. Chicago had been soundly beat in total yards from the first half but luck was on their side, as Atlanta couldn't find the end zone.

The final nine minutes of this game were as saturated with twists and turns as few have ever seen.

The Bears found themselves down by nine points with nine minutes left in regulation. The Kyle Orton-led Chicago team had just spent the last five-and-a-half minutes marching down the field and were at the Falcons' one-yard line facing a 3rd-and-goal situation.

Few things are more exciting in football than goal-line stands. 22 men lined up within inches of each other, both competing for completely opposite things. With just minutes left in this hour-long struggle, both sides knew this was going to be a turning point in the game, regardless of the outcome. The Bears had two opportunities to move the ball forward one yard.

Atlanta collapsed upon Chicago twice and refused to let the Bears penetrate their end zone. After the second goal-line stop, Falcon linebacker Keith Brooking emerged from the fray of bodies with his right hand thrust in the air.

The pendulum of momentum had swung back in favor of the home team.

The Falcons tried to keep it that way, but Chicago was determined to make a comeback. After a three-and-out, Atlanta was forced to punt the ball away. The Bears quickly sauntered up the field again and nailed a field goal. Under two minutes had left the clock and the score was 19-13, in favor of Atlanta.

With only one score separating these two teams, Chicago kicker Robbie Gould booted the ensuing kickoff two yards deep in the Atlanta end zone. Jerious Norwood returned that for 85 yards, the longest kick return of his career.

In between short Michael Turner runs up the middle, Chicago coach Lovie Smith and Atlanta coach Mike Smith were engaged in their own strategic battle. How much time should Lovie Smith allow to run off the clock? When should Mike Smith kick a field goal?

The Falcons ran over a minute off the clock before sending out kicker Jason Elam, who had not missed in 2008, for a potential game-sealing field goal. Astoundingly, Elam missed wide left. All bets were off.

The Bears had under three minutes and just one timeout to score a touchdown. If they could successfully accomplish that, they would be victorious. Quarterback Kyle Orton was facing his first true test as quarterback of the Chicago Bears. He had only one previous fourth-quarter game-winning drive, and the only question being asked in the Georgia Dome was, "Can he do it again?"

Using clock-management skills to rival Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, Orton orchestrated a drive that resulted in a touchdown with just 11 seconds left in the fourth quarter. The Bears now led by one point. You could almost hear the air being sucked from Atlanta fans. The atmosphere around these two teams were antithetical.

The Bears were absolutely ecstatic. Kyle Orton was running around the field with both arms outstretched, leaping into anyone who would catch him; a huge smile plastered on his face. Rashied Davis raised his arms in triumph. The comeback was complete; Chicago was a deadly team in the NFC.

Heads hung on the Atlanta sideline. Jason Elam was especially downtrodden. He had single-handedly booted this game to Chicago. He was the main scapegoat.

But there were still 11 seconds left. Let the emotional roller coaster continue.

Chicago kicker Robbie Gould squibbed the kickoff to Harry Douglas, who returned the ball to the Atlanta 45-yard line before being dragged down. Six seconds remained on the clock. To Chicago, these few ticks were the longest they have ever endured. To Atlanta, they went faster than they thought possible.

Rookie quarterback Matt Ryan had six seconds to get the Falcons in position for a game-winning field goal. Did this 23-year old panic? Hardly.

At this time last year, Ryan could probably be found sitting in a class at Boston College. Now, he was in the process of getting laid out by Tommy Harris and Mark Anderson. That's 550 pounds against 220. Not entirely fair, but that didn't bother Ryan in the least.

He stepped up and threw a perfect spiral to Michael Jenkins, who proceeded to kill his legs and land his two feet in-bounds as he fell out. Even then, though, Ryan didn't celebrate. He just threw his arm forward and pointed to Jenkins with a half-smile and walked off the field, very much in control of his emotions. This isn't your ordinary rookie. Even now the emotional roller coaster was starting its downspin.

We all know what happened next. Jason Elam lined up for a 47-yard field goal and completed his trip from scapegoat to hero. He had atoned for his previous miss and had redeemed himself in the most extreme way possible.

The Bears were in shock as they hobbled off the field. Atlanta players, meanwhile, jumped on each other like they had just won the Super Bowl.

The tide had turned. Atlanta has become one of the most-feared teams in the entire league.

Originally written for BleacherReport.com. What elements of a perfect football game did I miss? Be sure to let me know what you think in the comment section below.

Quarterbacks, Centers, and Tackles... Oh, My!

Andersklasen — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 16:37:48 -0000

In the upcoming 2009 Draft, the Vikings could go any number of different ways. Josh Freeman; the Jackson-esque quarterback from Kansas State? Alex Mack; the stud center from California? Eben Britton; the huge offensive tackle from Arizona?

I would be satisfied with many of the numerous options the Vikings have, but unless your name is Bill Belichick, it's pretty darn hard to cheat on draft day. More than likely, the Vikings will only announce one first round draft pick.

This has been endlessly debated among fans of the Purple, but who should that be?

Quarterback?

Peyton Manning. Tom Brady. Tarvaris Jackson? The name doesn't exactly inspire confidence in fans, nor does it instill fear in opponents. When the going gets tough, Jackson is probably to blame.

Rare is the person (outside of Childress) who thinks that Tarvaris will be an elite quarterback. Jackson has plenty of tools... but... he just isn't that good. Minnesota is the home of the best running back in the game, but one of the worst quarterbacks.

As VikesSince85 pointed out in this FanPost, a team has a better chance of contending for a Super Bowl if they have an elite quarterback but lack an elite running back. The Vikings have the inverse of this recipe, and it showed against the Eagles.

A quarterback is essential. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. But should the Vikings spend their first round pick on an unproven guy like Josh Freeman in the hopes that he becomes the next Big Ben?

Center?

As Gonzo mentioned in his Pre-Combine Mock, a new quarterback is worthless without an offensive line. There is an order to how things should be fixed, and the Lions are in about the same position. They could do what everybody says and draft Stafford... but their offensive line is a joke. The smart thing for them to do would be to help anchor that line and look for a quarterback in other places. It's not the most glamorous thing to do, but it's the smartest.

Should the Vikings operate under the assumption that Matt Birk won't be back? A guy like Alex Mack not only has an easy name to remember (and type), but is a super athlete. Gonzo summed it up best:

"Yeah, [Alex Mack is] not the most glamorous pick the Beloved Purple could make, but it's one that I think we'll be reaping the benefits of for a long time."

Offensive/Defensive Tackle?

Let's face it, Vikings fans have taken for granted having the best run-stopping duo in the game in the Williames. Both are getting up there in years, and might not be around long enough to see a new stadium. Should the Vikings build for the future and solidify that position with a guy like BJ Raji, or Peria Jerry?

Or how about the offensive tackle position? There is really only one hole on that line, and his name is Ryan Cook. Should the Vikings draft any of the plethora of offensive tackles available in this draft to make life easier for whoever is taking snaps from whoever the center is?

Clearly, a lot of options. Should we be satisfied with any of these options, or is there one that deserves to be prioritized higher than the others?

Please discuss and let us know what the most crucial need of the Vikings is, and how these needs should be prioritized.

Andersklasen is the alias of Andrew Kneeland. He blogs at VikingVigil.com, and can be reached by email at akneeland@bleacherreport.com.

A New Twist in the Favre Saga

Andersklasen — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 04:08:28 -0000

Tom Powers, of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, has the latest on the Brett Favre saga, part two.

Look, do you want to build for some future run at a title or do you want to win right now? The Vikings build every year. They've never won a title. ... Signing Favre won't compromise their future. What would it hinder, more development time for Jackson? Geez, he's already had years.

His article - which is well worth the read - brings up some great points. And I can't disagree with all of them.

Apparently, Favre will skip the Pro-Bowl to nurse his injured bicep. Now, sit back and ask yourself this question, "Would you rather end your career with a Pro-Bowl appearance or nursing an injury because you are afraid to hurt it worse?"

Powers' guess is that Favre is seriously considering returning for next year. And the Vikings are his No. 1 option.

I haven't been a huge supporter of the "Anti-Favre" club, but the potential of seeing Favre in purple would take some getting used to. I would only want Favre if the Vikings don't pursue another quarterback option; such as McNabb, Cassel, Sanchez, or Freeman.

From the looks of things, Minnesota is behind Jackson for at least one more year. As Powers mentioned, what harm would be done if Favre were brought to the Twin Cities?

I don't understand the hate Favre receives from his play this year. Sure, he is still thought of as a hated rival, but he can help bring the first Super Bowl to our empty fingers.

Those who are anti-Favre rely on his high interception total from his last month. I'll concede that Favre lacks arm strength - when his biceps are injured.

What it all boils down to, for me at least, is whether you are willing to risk a potential Super Bowl-caliber season simply because you can't stand the thought of Favre in a purple jersey.

While I don't totally agree with Powers, I do think that if Favre came to the 'Dome 2009 could be one of the most exciting seasons yet.

Poll

Should the Vikings bring Brett Favre to Minnesota?

Yes - Only if no other QB moves are made.

712 votes

Yes - No matter how the Draft/Free Agency goes.

535 votes

No - Absolutely not. Under no conditions.

548 votes

Other - Please leave a comment with your conditions.

19 votes

1814 votes | Poll has closed