A Good Analysis of the Team

**Big Daddy** · 08-31-2004, 04:49 PM

From FoxSports.com

PLUS FACTORS: The Vikings might have the NFL's most explosive offense. QB Daunte Culpepper enjoyed his best training camp as a professional and has carried his sharp play into the preseason. He also has more weapons than ever. In addition to WR Randy Moss, there is 6-3 WR Marcus Robinson and new TE Jermaine Wiggins, a skilled receiver. Assuming RB Michael Bennett doesn't miss significant time with a sprained knee, the team will be able to score in every conceivable fashion. P Darren Bennett's accuracy inside the 20 is exceptional, mostly because of his ability to make the ball bounce away from the goal line. The team has completed its three-year restructuring on the defensive line and now boasts three first-round picks and LE Kenny Mixon, a noted run stopper. Ts Kevin Williams, who had 10 1/2 sacks as a rookie last year, and Chris Hovan worked well together in camp, and rookie RE Kenechi Udeze immediately stepped in as the starter. Udeze's pass-rush skills are developed enough that he is moved to left end in nickel situations.

MINUS SIDE: Two of the starting linebackers, MLB E.J. Henderson and WLB Dontarrious Thomas, are new, and the third, SLB Chris Claiborne, is coming off of a heel injury. Henderson has made steady progress and is a strong hitter, but he must prove his maturity and show leadership skills. Thomas is fast enough to make up for some of his mistakes. CB Brian Williams' knee sprain in the exhibition opener exposed a lack of depth at the position. Nickel back Ken Irvin is a capable short-term fill-in and Rushen Jones is solid, but the team could experience difficulty if a major injury occurs. K Aaron Elling had an up-and-down camp. Coaches hope the return of holder Gus Frerotte will help smooth the edges.

SEIFERT'S BOTTOM LINE: Other than at linebacker, there are no obvious question marks in the starting lineup. Some positions, including receiver and defensive line, have exceptional depth. Much of coach Mike Tice's staff has been together for three years, and the addition of defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell provides more credibility. The team's talent stacks up with that of any potential challenger in the NFC. It is fair to expect a division championship and a deep run into the playoffs from this group.

I think this is fairly accurate and I do think we can beat anyone on any given day. :cheers: The days of being overmatched are over and now we will only have ourselves to blame.