Preseason thought process on the Vikings

By Krupka  |   Tuesday, August 21, 2007  |  Comments( 15 )

Minnesota Vikings
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It's only been two preseason games, but some things are starting to fall into place for the Minnesota Vikings. There is still a long way to go before the Vikings' Week 1 game against the Atlanta Falcons, but so far this is what I think about the team.

I think...

Ray Edwards should be the starting defensive end opposite Kenechi Udeze.

I know the Vikings have stated that Erasmus James wouldn't lose his starting position because of an injury, but it's something we hear about quarterbacks every year. And every year, a quarterback gets injured and loses his starting job to a backup playing well. If it isn't broke, don't fix it. Edwards has been phenomenal throughout training camp and thus far into the preseason, earning himself the opportunity to start. He has helped increase a pass rush that was nonexistent for most of last season. The former Purdue standout has double-digit sack potential, which should help improve upon last years putrid 17.5-sack output from the defensive line.

Brian Robison was a steal in the fourth round.

Like Edwards, the 6-foot-3, 267-pound defensive end out of Texas has done nothing but impress. He has a non-stop motor and tremendous work ethic that is paying off already for the Vikings. In Friday's preseason game against the Jets, Robison cashed in on a bad snap by pushing quarterback Kellen Clemens out of the way as Clemens attempted to pick up the loose ball, scooped it up himself, and scampered for a 3-yard touchdown. Although unlikely to happen, it would be intriguing to see how he plays on the left defensive end side, as a line starting both Robison and Edwards at the end spots could provide a suffocating pass rush.

Bobby Wade wasn't a bad signing after all.

While nobody will deny that Minnesota overpaid (five years, $15 million) for the 5-10 wide receiver, Wade is a veteran presence among an otherwise inexperienced receiving corps. Despite a dropped pass last Friday, he has established a great rapport with quarterback Tarvaris Jackson and has been a good influence in the locker room. Wade is currently slated to be the No. 1 receiver, although he would be better suited to play in the slot. In any event, Wade is a solid route runner and should have a good season.

Adrian Peterson's health is not an issue.

Peterson's 43-yard run against the Jets, preseason or not, was phenomenal, and it showed that his collarbone and shoulders are completely healed. The rookie first-round pick from Oklahoma ran off-tackle to the right side, then made a videogame-like spin move to elude Andre Dyson, got to the outside and showcased his speed by flying past linebacker Jonathan Vilma, then lowered his shoulder and barreled over safety David Barrett.

Brad Childress is the right coach for Minnesota.

Toward the end of last season, his first at the helm, Minnesota's head coach caught a lot of flak from fans and media. Childress, as well as anyone, knows it comes with the territory and the 2-8 finish will upset a fan base. However, he has a great football mind and has earned the respect of his players. Childress has given up the play-calling duties, which was one of the main gripes of his detractors, allowing him to manage the entire situation going on in a game. The team is improving, and it has the chance to surprise this year. Minnesota is heading in the right direction under the guidance of Childress.

-You can reach Eric Krupka at ekrupka@realfootball365.com

Get more Vikings coverage at RealFootball365.com
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CommentsComments: 15  |  Sign Up  View all comments
No.1
Archangel		10:44 AM
08/21/2007
Agreed. I think that they are going to be the biggest surprise of the season. Top defense. The only thing that worries me is...
No.2
Vikadonis Mike		10:49 AM
08/21/2007
I watched the game against the Jets, and while it was "only preseason", I still saw alot to be excited about the upcoming season....
No.3
Brandon Hendrickson		11:47 AM
08/21/2007
I dont think we have to wait till next year or the year after to be a superbowl pic, I think we could be in the superbowl this...
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