The drive to Minneapolis was tough but at last we made it to the stadium. The Bears fans came in droves. I sit in the upper deck and so were the many hundreds of Bears fans.
The Glallarhorn was blown to signal the Vikings were coming by legendary St. John’s University Coach John Gagliardi.
The next was the introduction of the Vikings players and just what I thought would happen did and that was the Vikings offense was announced. It was just fine until Christian Ponder’s name was announced. The booing happened just as I expected but not as bad as I thought would happen.
I had a Packers fan dressed in all green two rows in front of me turn around and say “Go Vikes.”I had to respond “Go Lions.” I love this NFL North competition.
The Bears fans were making themselves known until the first play when Adrian Peterson takes the opening handoff and there he goes. It really set a tone for the crowd at least for the first quarter.
Bears quarterback Jay Cutler throws an interception by Vikings Josh Robinson who took it to the house, so we thought. I thought the roof was going to blow off as Vikings were up 14-0. The crowd was so loud there was no realization at first that the play was under review.
The Vikings offense starts deep in Bears territory and I was fearful if we do not get a touchdown out of this it could be a huge swing of emotion for the Bears. I am very thankful the Vikings got a touchdown out of it.
I got a bad feeling after the exciting start to the game and then the Vikings offense went dormant the Bears would come back. The Bears TD making it 14-7 really gave an uncomfortable feeling.
The boos were ringing out of the rafters and then to make matters worse the Bears fans were extremely loud with Lets go Bears, Lets Go Bears. I sat in disappointment listening to the opponent fans being loud.
The interception return by Harrison Smith for a touchdown really brought the emotion back to the crowd and gave me a better feeling.
The score was 21-7 Vikes with 4:26 left in the 4th quarter when what do I see, Bears fans leaving in big chunks. I thought only 2 scores down anything is possible.
I thought the Vikings defense played an inspired game with hustle. I also thought middle linebacker Jasper Brinkley played the game of his life. It has been Greenway seemingly being week in and out the tackling leader. Today it was Brinkley’s turn.
The Bears player who could not be stopped was wide receiver Brandon Marshall. The catches he made were just simply amazing. I do not know who I was more impressed with Lions’ Calvin Johnson or today Marshall. I really thought Vikings had at times good coverage but yet Marshall still ripped the ball out of the air. As a football fan you have to appreciate the efforts Marshall had.
It was a huge win today for the Vikings today to keep the playoffs hopes still alive.
I stayed after the game and got to see from my seat a cool NFL moment, I watched Brandon Marshall and Adrian Peterson exchange game worn jerseys.
This game especially a division game and to see players do something like this. I also saw two premier pass rushers, Julius Peppers and Jared Allen smiling and patting each other on the back.
The game is over but to let you know some other interesting sights during the game. The video board showed a pregame video the Vikes do each game. Cory Cove from KFAN goes amongst people outside and sees what they would do for an autographed item.
Today 2 people had a time limit to see how many clothes pins they could stick on their face, ears or lips. I could not count them all but all I could do was feel the pain watching the video.
The other fact today was the heat in the dome. It was as hot as I can ever remember. I found out after the game with the new roof and the snow we had the heat is set to keep the roof melted so a collapse would not happen again.
The walk back to the car was treacherous as nothing had been plowed or sidewalks had not have ice melt. The fun was watching the snowball flying. I even saw a Vikings-Bears snowball fight between fans. They were each laughing so I know it was all good.
I will say of all the Bears-Vikings games I have attended this was the best I have seen fans act. I did not see anyone hauled out by the police.
All in all outside the weather was awful but inside was all fun as a Vikings win.
The call in show now has Cory Cove and former Vikes Linebacker, Ben Leber. I would say 90 percent of the call ins were to talk about Ponder and his struggles. It was strange but kind of expected even after a win.
Congrats to Coach Frazier on his first victory over Chicago.
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Friday, December 7, 2012
Time to Bear down
The last time the Vikings played a home game was Sunday November 11th, Veteran’s day. The Chicago Bears blow into town Sunday with much on the line.
It has been each home game where the offense or defense has been announced. The last home game the Vikings starting defense was announced. If the pattern follows suit the offense will be announced. I am extremely interested how this will go especially with the way the last week has gone since the Green Bay game. The talk all week at work and in public is the play of Christian Ponder and the lack of a passing game. The questions mount as people question, is it Ponder? Is it the receivers not being able to get open? Or is it Offensive Coordinator Bill Musgrave’s play calling?
If the first drive ends up in a 3 and out I believe the fans will boo the roof off. I hate hearing that being a huge supporter of the team but also understand that fans are frustrated after the 5-2 start raising hopes. The win against San Francisco at home shows this team can beat some of the best.
I was at the Mall of America at Friday and saw my fair share of Bears fans in town for the game as I know each year the Bears fans come in droves. It is always interesting how loud each fan base gets in a Vikings home game.
The Vikings are still in the playoff chase although are seeded 10 right now. A loss does not end the season but win by the Vikings would be a huge self-esteem booster in the last month.
The Bears are a 2.5 favorite on the road coming into the Vikes home. The over/under is 39 in Vegas. The home team has covered the spread 7 of the 9 last meetings.
The referee for the game will be Walt Coleman. In doing some reading on Walt I found an unusual fact about him. Walt worked as an official in the college ranks for 10 years without being a referee. It was said it is extremely unusual to be hired as a ref in the NFL without the college experience of being a ref. Walt became a Line Judge in 1989 and promoted to ref in 1995 so he now has 17 years of referee experience.
The game will be without Percy Harvin for the Vikings and the Bears are down Brian Urlacher (LB) Earl Bennett (WR) and Tim Jennings (CS) with all four players ruled out.
The Vikes placed Harvin on injured reserve ending what start as a great season. Urlacher a Bears veteran leader and Jennings, the NFL leading interceptor are major losses. Although major contributors to both teams neither team can use the excuse of their players’ absence.
As a football fan I would love to see Urlacher and Jennnigs on the field to see how the Vikes play against 2 of the top defensive players in the league.
My hopes in this game are many. I will start with giving the ball to Adrian like always but we just have to see Ponder roll out and find Kyle Rudolph. The absence of Urlacher I believe will allow Rudolph to find the seam.
The season is winding down on Jerome Simpson, who needs to have a monster game. The argument of hearing the Vikings receivers cannot get open I have mixed feelings about. I watch a ton of football and without listing all the quarterbacks in the league who can. You say, can what? These quarterbacks have the ability to throw back shoulders passes, or put passes where only the receiver can get it. I have seen many receivers covered about as well as possible, yet the quarterback puts it right there.
KFAN call in show last week made a point when saying there has never been a completion out of bounds. The deep balls which are few and in between are out of bounds. Sunday, send Simpson deep and Ponder throw it as far as you can. I believe it can be successful as I actually witnessed it in training camp. It can be done. I would love to see the old Randall Cunningham to Randy Moss again. Ponder just let it go, please.
Peterson showed in the first meeting that the Bears can be run on. If the team can have any small success in the passing game Peterson will get 200 again like last week.
The Vikings defense I believe can stop the Bears running attack but the concern this week for myself is Bear’s receiver Brandon Marshall who is big, strong and just plain physical. I believe Jared Allen and the rest of the D-Line will have a huge game. They are so overdue for a big game and if that would happen, the fear of Marshall having a big game will be minimal. It will hard to complete a pass for Cutler if he is lying on the Metrodome turf. I will predict Jared gets 2 sacks Sunday.
The fans will show up but more importantly we badly need for the Minnesota Vikings to play a complete game with each of the three phases contributing.
The countdown to kickoff is nearing and I for one am looking forward to the Vikings to break a 2 game losing streak. I plan on having a nice ride back to Owatonna knowing the Vikings are 1 game back of the Bears.
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
It has been each home game where the offense or defense has been announced. The last home game the Vikings starting defense was announced. If the pattern follows suit the offense will be announced. I am extremely interested how this will go especially with the way the last week has gone since the Green Bay game. The talk all week at work and in public is the play of Christian Ponder and the lack of a passing game. The questions mount as people question, is it Ponder? Is it the receivers not being able to get open? Or is it Offensive Coordinator Bill Musgrave’s play calling?
If the first drive ends up in a 3 and out I believe the fans will boo the roof off. I hate hearing that being a huge supporter of the team but also understand that fans are frustrated after the 5-2 start raising hopes. The win against San Francisco at home shows this team can beat some of the best.
I was at the Mall of America at Friday and saw my fair share of Bears fans in town for the game as I know each year the Bears fans come in droves. It is always interesting how loud each fan base gets in a Vikings home game.
The Vikings are still in the playoff chase although are seeded 10 right now. A loss does not end the season but win by the Vikings would be a huge self-esteem booster in the last month.
The Bears are a 2.5 favorite on the road coming into the Vikes home. The over/under is 39 in Vegas. The home team has covered the spread 7 of the 9 last meetings.
The referee for the game will be Walt Coleman. In doing some reading on Walt I found an unusual fact about him. Walt worked as an official in the college ranks for 10 years without being a referee. It was said it is extremely unusual to be hired as a ref in the NFL without the college experience of being a ref. Walt became a Line Judge in 1989 and promoted to ref in 1995 so he now has 17 years of referee experience.
The game will be without Percy Harvin for the Vikings and the Bears are down Brian Urlacher (LB) Earl Bennett (WR) and Tim Jennings (CS) with all four players ruled out.
The Vikes placed Harvin on injured reserve ending what start as a great season. Urlacher a Bears veteran leader and Jennings, the NFL leading interceptor are major losses. Although major contributors to both teams neither team can use the excuse of their players’ absence.
As a football fan I would love to see Urlacher and Jennnigs on the field to see how the Vikes play against 2 of the top defensive players in the league.
My hopes in this game are many. I will start with giving the ball to Adrian like always but we just have to see Ponder roll out and find Kyle Rudolph. The absence of Urlacher I believe will allow Rudolph to find the seam.
The season is winding down on Jerome Simpson, who needs to have a monster game. The argument of hearing the Vikings receivers cannot get open I have mixed feelings about. I watch a ton of football and without listing all the quarterbacks in the league who can. You say, can what? These quarterbacks have the ability to throw back shoulders passes, or put passes where only the receiver can get it. I have seen many receivers covered about as well as possible, yet the quarterback puts it right there.
KFAN call in show last week made a point when saying there has never been a completion out of bounds. The deep balls which are few and in between are out of bounds. Sunday, send Simpson deep and Ponder throw it as far as you can. I believe it can be successful as I actually witnessed it in training camp. It can be done. I would love to see the old Randall Cunningham to Randy Moss again. Ponder just let it go, please.
Peterson showed in the first meeting that the Bears can be run on. If the team can have any small success in the passing game Peterson will get 200 again like last week.
The Vikings defense I believe can stop the Bears running attack but the concern this week for myself is Bear’s receiver Brandon Marshall who is big, strong and just plain physical. I believe Jared Allen and the rest of the D-Line will have a huge game. They are so overdue for a big game and if that would happen, the fear of Marshall having a big game will be minimal. It will hard to complete a pass for Cutler if he is lying on the Metrodome turf. I will predict Jared gets 2 sacks Sunday.
The fans will show up but more importantly we badly need for the Minnesota Vikings to play a complete game with each of the three phases contributing.
The countdown to kickoff is nearing and I for one am looking forward to the Vikings to break a 2 game losing streak. I plan on having a nice ride back to Owatonna knowing the Vikings are 1 game back of the Bears.
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
Shocking KFAN announcement
On Thursday I found out like most of those who listen to the radio show KFAN that Mike Morris from the Power Trip (6-9am) was let go.
I listened to the show the morning of Friday December 7th and it was so weird not to hear Mike’s voice. I thought Chris Hawkey and Cory Cove handled things well, considering how they had to be careful what they said on the public air way. They made it clear that it stinks their friend is no longer there.
It is hard to believe it had been 11 years Morris and Hawkey had done this gig with Cove joining a little later. I thought it was a great tribute to end the show as each day previous Mike had chosen a true superstar of the day listing a serviceman or woman who served the country and made mention to end each show each day. Friday the true superstar was Mike Morris.
I know jobs are never a forever but when news like this hits it was a sad day for me because I really enjoyed listening to Mike and what he brought.
This Sunday’s Vikings-Bears game win or lose by the Vikings will be difficult for me because each game Mike and Cory Cove had run the call in show. Mike brought perspective being a former Vikings player which made the show even more enjoyable.
I had the privilege of meeting Mike numerous times during his training camp days with the Vikings in Mankato. I will tell you that he was one of the nicest players I had ever met. I have got the chance to meet over 400 different players and got my picture with each. Mike took the time to meet fans and was just flat out nice. He is by no means dead, but in my heart I feel a big loss with no more Mike Morris on the airways.
His nickname was the “Superstar” as he even autographed a football I gave him, Superstar. Who can forget those who listened to his show the numerous times he would say “You think I a’int”.
I sent an email to Mike to say thank you for the years I got to listen to you. I know there is always going to be someone to disagree but I for one really enjoyed what he brought the program. Good Luck, Mike Morris and thanks again.
Come on Vikes Lets’ win this one for Mike Morris and the rest of the purple fan base.
Thanks for reading
Purplstick
I listened to the show the morning of Friday December 7th and it was so weird not to hear Mike’s voice. I thought Chris Hawkey and Cory Cove handled things well, considering how they had to be careful what they said on the public air way. They made it clear that it stinks their friend is no longer there.
It is hard to believe it had been 11 years Morris and Hawkey had done this gig with Cove joining a little later. I thought it was a great tribute to end the show as each day previous Mike had chosen a true superstar of the day listing a serviceman or woman who served the country and made mention to end each show each day. Friday the true superstar was Mike Morris.
I know jobs are never a forever but when news like this hits it was a sad day for me because I really enjoyed listening to Mike and what he brought.
This Sunday’s Vikings-Bears game win or lose by the Vikings will be difficult for me because each game Mike and Cory Cove had run the call in show. Mike brought perspective being a former Vikings player which made the show even more enjoyable.
I had the privilege of meeting Mike numerous times during his training camp days with the Vikings in Mankato. I will tell you that he was one of the nicest players I had ever met. I have got the chance to meet over 400 different players and got my picture with each. Mike took the time to meet fans and was just flat out nice. He is by no means dead, but in my heart I feel a big loss with no more Mike Morris on the airways.
His nickname was the “Superstar” as he even autographed a football I gave him, Superstar. Who can forget those who listened to his show the numerous times he would say “You think I a’int”.
I sent an email to Mike to say thank you for the years I got to listen to you. I know there is always going to be someone to disagree but I for one really enjoyed what he brought the program. Good Luck, Mike Morris and thanks again.
Come on Vikes Lets’ win this one for Mike Morris and the rest of the purple fan base.
Thanks for reading
Purplstick
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
A look at numbers Vikes-Bears Part 2
Sunday December 9th is the biggest game of this young Vikings team’s effort to reach the playoffs and it comes against NFC North rival, Chicago Bears. A loss does not eliminate them but the odds would be overwhelming not to get in. The team sits 10th in the playoffs race.
The last time Chicago invaded Mall of America Field was the last game of the 2011 season on January 1st. The Vikes were 3-12 and Chicago was 7-8 coming in so neither team was going anywhere. It was Jim Kleinsasser’s last game as a Viking player. The game also saw Jared Allen get his sack to break Chris Doleman’s team record. The Bears did win 17-13 without Jay Cutler quarterbacking the Bears. The game also saw Bears lose linebacker Brian Urlacher to injury as well. It was a classic black and blue game with throw the records out and just play a physical hard hitting game.
I remember another positive in that game for the fans. It was New Year’s Day and meter parking in the streets of Minneapolis was free due to the holiday. I always try to look at the positive in everything.
This Sunday has the Bears coming in like the Packers last week all banged up. Sunday December 2nd Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher was injured in their OT loss to Seattle. Urlacher has a grade 2 hamstring strain which puts him out for this game and maybe more. I am disappointed because as much as I dislike the Bears, Urlacher is so impressive to watch in action.
The game is essential for the Vikings (6-6) who face an (8-4) Bears team. This game is by no means for first but a Vikings loss drops them 3 behind Chicago and loses the tie breaker to the Bears as well. The Packers are in first place so for now the Vikes are challenging several other teams including the Bears for a wild card spot as the minimum.
The Vikings hold the all-time series lead with 52-49-2 but the Bears have won 6 in a row in the series including this season winning 28-10 in Chicago.
The talk of Adrian Peterson’s game last week just does not get old. I did some reading this week and found these numbers. Peterson’s league leading 1446 yards is now more than 22 other NFL team total. Adrian is leading Marshawn Lynch by 308 yards in the race for the rushing title. He would need to average 138.5 in the last 4 games to get to 2000 yards rushing.
Lets look at some other impressive numbers by Peterson as he tied for 4th with 8 touchdowns. He is also 2nd in the NFL in total scrimmage yards with 1641. I can remember back to fantasy drafts with people taking Peterson lower because of the surgery and not sure what he would be like. The people that took him higher with a risk should be congratulated.
Adrian is 2nd in the NFL in broken tackles with 54. Tampa Bay’s Doug Martin leads the league with 57 and in third is Browns rookie Trent Richardson with 50.
The Vikings as a team are 1st in the NFL with 21 runs of 20 yards or more and also have 4 runs of over 50 yards.
In other Vikings players and numbers and how they rank in the NFL. Blair Walsh is 4th in the league with 41 touchbacks. Chad Greenway leads the league in tackles with 123. Kyle Rudolph is 2nd amongst tight ends with 8 touchdown receptions.
In looking at team numbers the Vikings average 21.8 points per game while the Bears average 24.5. Minnesota averages 335.5 yards per game while Chicago is averaging 304.
The biggest statistical category favors the Bears heavily. Minnesota has created 15 turnovers while the Bears have 34. Minnesota has 7 interceptions while the Bears have 20. The differential heavily favors the Bears who are a plus 14 while the Vikings are a -6.
Minnesota who is 5-1 at home has to make the most of home field and give the Bears their 2nd loss in a row. The fans will be needed more than ever.
I believe the Vikings will move to 7-6 with a hard fought 21-13 win Sunday.
Next up: Thoughts on what needs to happen to get win number 7
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
The last time Chicago invaded Mall of America Field was the last game of the 2011 season on January 1st. The Vikes were 3-12 and Chicago was 7-8 coming in so neither team was going anywhere. It was Jim Kleinsasser’s last game as a Viking player. The game also saw Jared Allen get his sack to break Chris Doleman’s team record. The Bears did win 17-13 without Jay Cutler quarterbacking the Bears. The game also saw Bears lose linebacker Brian Urlacher to injury as well. It was a classic black and blue game with throw the records out and just play a physical hard hitting game.
I remember another positive in that game for the fans. It was New Year’s Day and meter parking in the streets of Minneapolis was free due to the holiday. I always try to look at the positive in everything.
This Sunday has the Bears coming in like the Packers last week all banged up. Sunday December 2nd Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher was injured in their OT loss to Seattle. Urlacher has a grade 2 hamstring strain which puts him out for this game and maybe more. I am disappointed because as much as I dislike the Bears, Urlacher is so impressive to watch in action.
The game is essential for the Vikings (6-6) who face an (8-4) Bears team. This game is by no means for first but a Vikings loss drops them 3 behind Chicago and loses the tie breaker to the Bears as well. The Packers are in first place so for now the Vikes are challenging several other teams including the Bears for a wild card spot as the minimum.
The Vikings hold the all-time series lead with 52-49-2 but the Bears have won 6 in a row in the series including this season winning 28-10 in Chicago.
The talk of Adrian Peterson’s game last week just does not get old. I did some reading this week and found these numbers. Peterson’s league leading 1446 yards is now more than 22 other NFL team total. Adrian is leading Marshawn Lynch by 308 yards in the race for the rushing title. He would need to average 138.5 in the last 4 games to get to 2000 yards rushing.
Lets look at some other impressive numbers by Peterson as he tied for 4th with 8 touchdowns. He is also 2nd in the NFL in total scrimmage yards with 1641. I can remember back to fantasy drafts with people taking Peterson lower because of the surgery and not sure what he would be like. The people that took him higher with a risk should be congratulated.
Adrian is 2nd in the NFL in broken tackles with 54. Tampa Bay’s Doug Martin leads the league with 57 and in third is Browns rookie Trent Richardson with 50.
The Vikings as a team are 1st in the NFL with 21 runs of 20 yards or more and also have 4 runs of over 50 yards.
In other Vikings players and numbers and how they rank in the NFL. Blair Walsh is 4th in the league with 41 touchbacks. Chad Greenway leads the league in tackles with 123. Kyle Rudolph is 2nd amongst tight ends with 8 touchdown receptions.
In looking at team numbers the Vikings average 21.8 points per game while the Bears average 24.5. Minnesota averages 335.5 yards per game while Chicago is averaging 304.
The biggest statistical category favors the Bears heavily. Minnesota has created 15 turnovers while the Bears have 34. Minnesota has 7 interceptions while the Bears have 20. The differential heavily favors the Bears who are a plus 14 while the Vikings are a -6.
Minnesota who is 5-1 at home has to make the most of home field and give the Bears their 2nd loss in a row. The fans will be needed more than ever.
I believe the Vikings will move to 7-6 with a hard fought 21-13 win Sunday.
Next up: Thoughts on what needs to happen to get win number 7
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Wrapping up the Packers game
I get up for every game but the Packer game my heart pounds harder than normal. I don’t care if it is a home game or watching the game on TV when it’s in Lambeau is a feeling like no other. The amount of Packers fans I know makes the game just that much more special. It is so fun to watch this rival game. The hours after the game I am emotionally drained.
I seem to spend extra time in my head trying to figure out just what happened. I have heard nothing but Ponder this, and Ponder that. It is understandable but I just wonder if we could have any kind of passing attack Adrian would get more yards than he already gets.
I am still in shock as I have watched many highlights of the game as we watched Adrian break a Vikings record by getting his 6th straight 100 yard rushing. The Packers had only allowed one thus far until Sunday. The 82 yard run goes down as his longest in his career. The stat I found tonight really is mind blowing.
The fact that since week 7 Adrian is averaging 7.8 yards per carry and Christian Ponder is averaging 5 yards per completion. It makes what AP is doing even bigger.
Agree or disagree, the ability for Peterson to break a long run, look at the scoreboard to see how his pursuers are doing and still stay at a pace to win the race to the end zone is so impressive.
The month of December is when teams make a push for the playoffs. The Vikings in the last 4 games have the hardest schedule in the NFL.
The team is in the playoffs mix yet but I am hoping for a division title. I do not want to back in by watching other teams lose.
It all begins Sunday when the Vikings host the Bears.
The Bears schedule: at Minnesota, then home vs. Green Bay then on the road at Arizona and Detroit to finish their schedule. Yes, 3 of 4 on the road.
Green Bay schedule: home vs. Detroit then at Chicago home vs. Tennessee and then end the schedule by coming to Minnesota. 2 home and 2 away.
It does not matter at all if the Vikings cannot take care of business. I took the loss in Green Bay hard but will believe the team can find a way to get the job done.
Detroit is a hard team to figure after making the playoffs in 2011. Sunday Detroit became the 3rd time in NFL history to lose 3 straight after having 4th quarter leads and all 3 games were in Detroit.
2012 is the year of the unexpected and that is why my heart is saying somehow, someway the Purple will find a way to get the job done even it means Peterson carries this team.
We the fans need to come next Sunday and pour every cent of energy we have and show the Vikings we are behind them 100 percent.
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
I seem to spend extra time in my head trying to figure out just what happened. I have heard nothing but Ponder this, and Ponder that. It is understandable but I just wonder if we could have any kind of passing attack Adrian would get more yards than he already gets.
I am still in shock as I have watched many highlights of the game as we watched Adrian break a Vikings record by getting his 6th straight 100 yard rushing. The Packers had only allowed one thus far until Sunday. The 82 yard run goes down as his longest in his career. The stat I found tonight really is mind blowing.
The fact that since week 7 Adrian is averaging 7.8 yards per carry and Christian Ponder is averaging 5 yards per completion. It makes what AP is doing even bigger.
Agree or disagree, the ability for Peterson to break a long run, look at the scoreboard to see how his pursuers are doing and still stay at a pace to win the race to the end zone is so impressive.
The month of December is when teams make a push for the playoffs. The Vikings in the last 4 games have the hardest schedule in the NFL.
The team is in the playoffs mix yet but I am hoping for a division title. I do not want to back in by watching other teams lose.
It all begins Sunday when the Vikings host the Bears.
The Bears schedule: at Minnesota, then home vs. Green Bay then on the road at Arizona and Detroit to finish their schedule. Yes, 3 of 4 on the road.
Green Bay schedule: home vs. Detroit then at Chicago home vs. Tennessee and then end the schedule by coming to Minnesota. 2 home and 2 away.
It does not matter at all if the Vikings cannot take care of business. I took the loss in Green Bay hard but will believe the team can find a way to get the job done.
Detroit is a hard team to figure after making the playoffs in 2011. Sunday Detroit became the 3rd time in NFL history to lose 3 straight after having 4th quarter leads and all 3 games were in Detroit.
2012 is the year of the unexpected and that is why my heart is saying somehow, someway the Purple will find a way to get the job done even it means Peterson carries this team.
We the fans need to come next Sunday and pour every cent of energy we have and show the Vikings we are behind them 100 percent.
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
Frustration and questions after tough loss
The game is over and all I can say is this week will be a huge talker week about the play of Christian Ponder. It would be a long blog I could write about the frustration we are watching so I will let the media and other fans hammer away. The two words I have are disappointed and frustrated and leave it at that.
I have so many thoughts on what we just watched and I will begin with this was a game that was absolutely winnable. The Packers are so hurt on the offensive line yet they have a huge running game. The Vikings defense is on the field 2 games in a row of over 37 minutes. This is unacceptable.
The number of offsides by the defensive line was very disappointing. I have not played football so it might be easy to say but if the guys would have watched the football and not go by the quarterbacks hard count would have made life on the road a little easier.
I just felt Aaron Rodgers just did not look comfortable almost like he was nervous he was going to get hammered. He made the plays when he had to and that is why he is a good quarterback. The Packers receivers were working their way and finding the opening.
I really thought maybe the biggest swing of momentums came in the second quarter. The Vikings are winning 14-10 and the Packers quarterback Rodgers gets picked off by Jared Allen deep in Packers territory. I jumped off my couch in excitement thinking this is exactly what we need. Wow, hold the horses as the Vikings were called for roughing the quarterback which I thought was questionable. Troy Aikman even made a point to say he did not think so either. It is only a thought and too late now. I was just thinking after the game, what if?
The other back breaker amongst many would come from Packers kicker Mason Crosby. It was early in the game when he banked one of the upright and in and then at half he shanks a kick badly. The Packers I thought were going to go for fourth and 7 and then the fate of Crosby’s future may have changed as he makes the 47 yarder. It was at this point of the game even though the Vikes were still up 14-13 that this is what get the Packers fired up. If he would have missed this and the fans would have been irate wouldn’t that have been great? It just was not meant to happen.
The play of Adrian Peterson once again is incredible. The running back who just does not quit is a subject is so fun to talk about. Teams know all the Vikings have for now is Adrian’s running ability. The teams including the Packers put 9-10 on the line and he still get through.
The runs he had were amazing but on 2 of his long hard runs ended with 2 plays later an interception being thrown.
The stats coming out of the game were just Vikings fans luck. The stat since the year 2000 teams that have a running back go for 200 yards, are 57-2 and now after Sunday 57-3. I found even later that since the year 1960 teams that have running back with over 2000 have only lost 7 games.
I have twitter and follow many media and boy were the tweets flying about Peterson and the thoughts of what he brings.
I found one tweet that said the Vikings should bring in another offensive lineman, bench Ponder and snap the ball to Peterson. This sums up about as many tweets and thoughts by fans.
The talk of the receivers not being able to get open I believe seems to be valid. I was shocked to see Adrian Peterson on a long pass. The fact he was so open only to have the ball underthrown. What if the ball was 2 yards deeper or so? I say, touchdown but again only speculation in a loss.
The other running back running a deep route with Toby Gerhart who I believe was open as well. What a crazy sight was seeing the receivers not get open yet the two running backs run deep routes.
It was nice to see Jerome Simpson catch two balls even though too late but after last week I was happy for him. I also enjoyed Kyle Rudolph make a touchdown catch and do a Lambeau leap.
On the passing theme I watched the game and did not realize that it had been 39 game minutes since Ponder had made a completion. Also the broadcast team point out the last time a wide receiver did not have a catch was back in 2002 done by Houston.
I get teased quite often about why I follow this team when all they do is disappoint. I cannot deny at times I do feel bad but I am a fan and will always be proud of that fact. We the fans do not win or lose the game but it sure is a better feel to watch a win.
One of the areas I would like to give a compliment to is to special teams with the punt team. I love Kluwe’s punts today and even better was the coverage team did on holding Randall Cobb in check.
The miss by Blair Walsh at the 2:00 mark kind of summed up the theme of the game. The guy has had a fabulous season thus far and I do not blame him. It just was a day of frustration.
The Packers-Vikings fans today will have a lot of talking to do all week. I cannot wait for the rematch the last game of the year home at Mall of America Field.
The game is over and I went to listen to the KFAN call in show and Corey Cove says “Welcome to Christian Ponder call in show.”
Tomorrow at work will not be fun but oh well it is part of being a fan. My thought is game lost; bring on the Bears where we are 5-1 at home. The Vikings are still in the playoff hunt.
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
I have so many thoughts on what we just watched and I will begin with this was a game that was absolutely winnable. The Packers are so hurt on the offensive line yet they have a huge running game. The Vikings defense is on the field 2 games in a row of over 37 minutes. This is unacceptable.
The number of offsides by the defensive line was very disappointing. I have not played football so it might be easy to say but if the guys would have watched the football and not go by the quarterbacks hard count would have made life on the road a little easier.
I just felt Aaron Rodgers just did not look comfortable almost like he was nervous he was going to get hammered. He made the plays when he had to and that is why he is a good quarterback. The Packers receivers were working their way and finding the opening.
I really thought maybe the biggest swing of momentums came in the second quarter. The Vikings are winning 14-10 and the Packers quarterback Rodgers gets picked off by Jared Allen deep in Packers territory. I jumped off my couch in excitement thinking this is exactly what we need. Wow, hold the horses as the Vikings were called for roughing the quarterback which I thought was questionable. Troy Aikman even made a point to say he did not think so either. It is only a thought and too late now. I was just thinking after the game, what if?
The other back breaker amongst many would come from Packers kicker Mason Crosby. It was early in the game when he banked one of the upright and in and then at half he shanks a kick badly. The Packers I thought were going to go for fourth and 7 and then the fate of Crosby’s future may have changed as he makes the 47 yarder. It was at this point of the game even though the Vikes were still up 14-13 that this is what get the Packers fired up. If he would have missed this and the fans would have been irate wouldn’t that have been great? It just was not meant to happen.
The play of Adrian Peterson once again is incredible. The running back who just does not quit is a subject is so fun to talk about. Teams know all the Vikings have for now is Adrian’s running ability. The teams including the Packers put 9-10 on the line and he still get through.
The runs he had were amazing but on 2 of his long hard runs ended with 2 plays later an interception being thrown.
The stats coming out of the game were just Vikings fans luck. The stat since the year 2000 teams that have a running back go for 200 yards, are 57-2 and now after Sunday 57-3. I found even later that since the year 1960 teams that have running back with over 2000 have only lost 7 games.
I have twitter and follow many media and boy were the tweets flying about Peterson and the thoughts of what he brings.
I found one tweet that said the Vikings should bring in another offensive lineman, bench Ponder and snap the ball to Peterson. This sums up about as many tweets and thoughts by fans.
The talk of the receivers not being able to get open I believe seems to be valid. I was shocked to see Adrian Peterson on a long pass. The fact he was so open only to have the ball underthrown. What if the ball was 2 yards deeper or so? I say, touchdown but again only speculation in a loss.
The other running back running a deep route with Toby Gerhart who I believe was open as well. What a crazy sight was seeing the receivers not get open yet the two running backs run deep routes.
It was nice to see Jerome Simpson catch two balls even though too late but after last week I was happy for him. I also enjoyed Kyle Rudolph make a touchdown catch and do a Lambeau leap.
On the passing theme I watched the game and did not realize that it had been 39 game minutes since Ponder had made a completion. Also the broadcast team point out the last time a wide receiver did not have a catch was back in 2002 done by Houston.
I get teased quite often about why I follow this team when all they do is disappoint. I cannot deny at times I do feel bad but I am a fan and will always be proud of that fact. We the fans do not win or lose the game but it sure is a better feel to watch a win.
One of the areas I would like to give a compliment to is to special teams with the punt team. I love Kluwe’s punts today and even better was the coverage team did on holding Randall Cobb in check.
The miss by Blair Walsh at the 2:00 mark kind of summed up the theme of the game. The guy has had a fabulous season thus far and I do not blame him. It just was a day of frustration.
The Packers-Vikings fans today will have a lot of talking to do all week. I cannot wait for the rematch the last game of the year home at Mall of America Field.
The game is over and I went to listen to the KFAN call in show and Corey Cove says “Welcome to Christian Ponder call in show.”
Tomorrow at work will not be fun but oh well it is part of being a fan. My thought is game lost; bring on the Bears where we are 5-1 at home. The Vikings are still in the playoff hunt.
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Border Battle added info
Week 13 is here and with that becomes issues for teams with injuries. A fan hates to see their star players out but this is where you are hoping the depth of your favorite team is good enough to keep the wins coming.
Here is a look at the report as of Friday November 30th for the Border Battle
Green Bay Packers
Out
Clay Mathews (LB)
Sam Shields (CB)
Johnny White (RB)
Andrew Quarless (TE)
Charles Woodsoon (CB)
CJ Wilson (DE)
Questionable
Donald Driver (WR)
Probable
Greg Jennings (WR)
Minnesota Vikings
Out
Percy Harvin (WR)
Probable
Harrison Smith (S)
Adrian Peterson (RB)
Jasper Brinkley (LB)
Antoine Winfield (CB)
Kyle Rudolph (TE)
Jared Allen (DE)
A note on the Vikings players that are probable is all were in full participation at Friday’s practice.
Also on Saturday Percy Harvin has been ruled out and will not travel with the team.
As a fan I am disappointed Clay Mathews is out because I would have loved to see how the Vikings offensive line would do agaist his energetic pass rush.
I mentioned in yesterday’s blog that FOX TV has the number one broadcast calling the game. The other news I read is the referee for the game is Ed Hochuli.
I read a very interesting article about Ed and some of his background. Ed went to the University of Texas El Paso where he got his BA also with that came graduating with honors. Hochuli played Linebacker for UTEP from 1969-1972.
He earned a law degree and has been a partner in a firm in Arizona since 1983. The firm is Jones,Skelton and Huchuli, P.L.C. since founded in 1983. He is admitted to practice in Arizona state and federal courts and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.
I found a quote by Hochuli saying “A trial is nothing, pressure-wise, compared to the NFL” also saying “I have so long to make a decision with a million people watching and second guessing (by video) in slow motion. You got to be right or wrong. I love the satisfaction where you are right- and the agony when you are wrong.”
Hochuli finds similarities between the football field and courtroom saying “people on the field like that I am in charge and know what I am doing, but a lot of the time it’s just appearance. I’m going to sell you on my decision. It’s the same in the courtroom. You do not stand in front of a jury and say. “I think my client is innocent.” You say, We’re right!”
Ed is in his 23rd year in the NFL and 21 have come as a ref. His long explanations of penalties and his body build specifically his biceps set him apart from all other referees.
I am looking forward to Aikman and Buck on the play by play and Hochuli explaining all the penalties and hopefully more by the Packers.
Next up: Thoughts after the game
Go Vikes Go
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
Here is a look at the report as of Friday November 30th for the Border Battle
Green Bay Packers
Out
Clay Mathews (LB)
Sam Shields (CB)
Johnny White (RB)
Andrew Quarless (TE)
Charles Woodsoon (CB)
CJ Wilson (DE)
Questionable
Donald Driver (WR)
Probable
Greg Jennings (WR)
Minnesota Vikings
Out
Percy Harvin (WR)
Probable
Harrison Smith (S)
Adrian Peterson (RB)
Jasper Brinkley (LB)
Antoine Winfield (CB)
Kyle Rudolph (TE)
Jared Allen (DE)
A note on the Vikings players that are probable is all were in full participation at Friday’s practice.
Also on Saturday Percy Harvin has been ruled out and will not travel with the team.
As a fan I am disappointed Clay Mathews is out because I would have loved to see how the Vikings offensive line would do agaist his energetic pass rush.
I mentioned in yesterday’s blog that FOX TV has the number one broadcast calling the game. The other news I read is the referee for the game is Ed Hochuli.
I read a very interesting article about Ed and some of his background. Ed went to the University of Texas El Paso where he got his BA also with that came graduating with honors. Hochuli played Linebacker for UTEP from 1969-1972.
He earned a law degree and has been a partner in a firm in Arizona since 1983. The firm is Jones,Skelton and Huchuli, P.L.C. since founded in 1983. He is admitted to practice in Arizona state and federal courts and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.
I found a quote by Hochuli saying “A trial is nothing, pressure-wise, compared to the NFL” also saying “I have so long to make a decision with a million people watching and second guessing (by video) in slow motion. You got to be right or wrong. I love the satisfaction where you are right- and the agony when you are wrong.”
Hochuli finds similarities between the football field and courtroom saying “people on the field like that I am in charge and know what I am doing, but a lot of the time it’s just appearance. I’m going to sell you on my decision. It’s the same in the courtroom. You do not stand in front of a jury and say. “I think my client is innocent.” You say, We’re right!”
Ed is in his 23rd year in the NFL and 21 have come as a ref. His long explanations of penalties and his body build specifically his biceps set him apart from all other referees.
I am looking forward to Aikman and Buck on the play by play and Hochuli explaining all the penalties and hopefully more by the Packers.
Next up: Thoughts after the game
Go Vikes Go
Thanks for reading
Purplestick
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