Favre says that the ankle injury that he suffered against the Saints in the NFC Championship game continues to be swollen and painful. (Cue the superhero music) Dr. James Andrews has been consulted, and upon seeing Favre’s x-rays, MRIs, CTs, ABC123’s, etc., has said that purple #4 will need surgery should he want to play any more football….ever.
“We have spoken,” Favre said in an e-mail. “To play again, I would need the surgery, as I suspected. This decision would be easy if not for my teammates and the fans and the entire Vikings staff. One year truly felt like 10 — much like Green Bay for many years. That’s what I was missing in my heart I suppose, a sense of belonging.”
That statement makes me laugh because of the not-so-veiled shot at the Green Bay Packers organization and their fans. I concur with #4….Suck it, Packers!
All joking aside, this has to move up the timeframe for a decision coming from Favre on playing football in 2010. Its surgery and he will need recovery time to get healthy for training camp,preseason, week 1, after the bye week!?!?! My feeling is that Brett Favre still wants to play football, but does that desire to play outweigh his desire for no surgery? Time will tell….
If you asked me yesterday if I thought Favre would be coming back for the 2010 season, I would have bet at least $10 that he would be coming back to play. Just kidding, I would have bet $20. Seriously though, I was very confident that Favre would be back and would have put it at about 90% (and that was even with me thinking conservatively) that Favre would be back in 2010. Now? I think its 50/50…or less….and I don’t like those odds.
Posted on April 21, 2010 by Purple_PrideComments Off
Never one to shy away from the spotlight, the NFL delayed its announcement of the 2010 season until the days leading up to the 2010 NFL Draft! The Vikings 2010 schedule can be found here. My initial reaction is “Hmmm….15th toughest schedule, that’s not so bad…” My reaction after looking over the schedule is “Daaaammmnnnnn….” You’ll see why below.
A few tidbits about the schedule:
-The Vikes have the 15th toughest schedule based on opponents records in the 2009 season.
-The Vikings will kickoff the NFL season in a rematch of the NFC Championship game in New Orleans on Thursday, September 9. In addition to the 6 games against NFC North foes, the Vikes also face the NFC East (Dallas, @Washington, NYG, @Philly), the AFC East (Miami, @ NYJ, @NE, Buffalo) and the Arizona Cardinals visit the Dome to round out the 16 game season.
-I think the Vikings schedule looks considerably tougher than the 15th ranking indicates. Facing the Lions twice (2-14 in 2009) will do that to a schedule. But the Vikes still face all 3 division winners in the NFC(New Orleans, Dallas, Arizona) AFC East Division winner New England and playoff teams Green Bay, Philadelphia & NY Jets. In short, the Vikes play every other NFC playoff team and 2 playoff teams from the AFC. 8 games total against 2009 playoff teams. Yikes.
-The Vikings bye is in week 4(!)…what is the point of having the bye week after you have played 3 games? I’m sure the NFL wants to minimize the number of teams on bye each week to maximize the number of games played on each weekend, but byes really shouldn’t start until later in the season. Counter that with the Packers having their bye in week 10, which is about right where I would want it.
-If there is a “lull” in the Vikes schedule, I would say it would have to be some kind of combo of games in the later portion on the season starting with the week 12 @Washington (4-12) game, though they have added McNabb at QB and Mike Shanahan as head coach followed by Buffalo (6-10), NY Giants (8-8) & Bears (7-9) coming to the Dome. I’m not saying any of these games will be easy, but compared to the rest of the schedule – this has to be labeled the “easier” portion of the 2010 season.
Key 2010 Matchups:
As always, divisional games are of the utmost importance, especially with the Packers nipping at our heels at 11-5 last year. Obviously, every game in a 16 game season is very important and here are a few that look to be highlights of the season:
Week 1: Vikings @ Saints – Thursday, September 9th: Ho-hum game to start off the season, right? I’m sure that the NFL is hoping that Favre decides to come back for the 2010 season or this game does not have nearly the feel with T-Jack in at QB. Still, this is a rematch of the NFC Championship game in what I’m sure will be a rocking Superdome as they celebrate their Super Bowl Championship. Game is on primetime on NBC and the entire NFL nation will be watching. Let’s set the right tone for the season!
Week 5: Vikings @ Jets – Monday, October 11th: Coming off of a bye week, the Vikes 1st MNF football game of the year is in the bright lights of New York, and the 1st time the Vikes will get a look at the NYJ/NYG brand new, shared Meadowlands Stadium. The Jets, a surprise team last year, won’t sneak up on anyone this year…but will be a clear contender. An already stout defense has added CB Antonio Cromartie and veteran Jason Taylor, along with RB LaDainian Tomlinson, will be a very tough test for the purple.
Week 7: Vikings @ Packers – Sunday, October 24th: The Vikes first Sunday night game on NBC. No surprise there as anytime Favre (hopefully) playing against the Packers is involved, the entire world will go on pause for 3 hours. Even without Favre involved, this is one of the most heated rivalries in the NFL. This game will be an important win as one of these teams take a step close to the division crown.
Week 11: Packers @ Vikings – Sunday, November 21st: The Dome will be rockin’ as the Pack come to Minneapolis for the rematch of week 7. This game will be of the utmost importance to both teams, but even moreso to the team who lost in week 7. Could be an early indicator of who will take the NFC North.
Week 17: Vikings @ Lions – Sunday, January 2nd: If the last game of the year is an important one, I guess I would want it to be against the Lions. 0-16 in 2008 and 2-14 last year, the Lions are not one of the most feared opponents the NFL has to offer…though the Vikes always seem to let them hang around games in recent years. Who knows? Maybe the Vikes will be able to rest some starters in this game as the 2010 regular season comes to a close.
Overall, the Vikes face a very tough road to another NFC North crown & the playoffs. Every team in the Vikes division has improved by leaps and bounds, though the Vikes have also worked (they’d better work harder – Rhys Lloyd & Mike Montgomery are your only FA signings thus far?!?!?) to improve areas on the team as well. Obviously, the biggest factor to the success of the Vikings season is the QB situation. We feel very confident that Brett Favre will be back for the 2010 (2011?!?!?!) season and will be that much more comfortable with his Vikings teammates, coaches and the offense. The loss of Chester Taylor hurts, as well as versatile O-lineman Artis Hicks departure to Washington.
Early predictions: With Brett Favre: 11-5 Sans Brett Favre: 9-7
Posted on March 8, 2010 by Purple_PrideComments Off
YYYEEEESSSSSSSSS!!! Hots dogs....I am for sure re-signing now!
Wow!!! What a news day! The Minnesota Twins have announced the new hot dog to be served at Target Field will be local weiners, Schwiegert Hot Dogs! Sorry, no more Hormel dogs. Thankful college students everywhere are happy to hear $1 Dog night will be retained in the move to Target Field. And a new and expanded hot dog menu will welcome fans on the Twins home opener!
(From StarTribune.com)
Minnesota-made Schweigert hot dogs, a fan favorite when the Twins last played home games outside, has been chosen for the soon-to-be-inaugurated Target Field.
The team also said that Dollar-A Dog Days will continue, moving from Wednesdays to Mondays (except for Opening Day).
Twins officials said that four different Schweigert dogs are filling the void left after the Twins announced late last month that Dome Dogs, made by Austin-based Hormel, were going the way of the Metrodome:
Original Twins Dog: A traditional pork and beef hot dog, it will be made from the same recipe as the ones served in the team’s first ballpark – Metropolitan Stadium – and will be available at many of the park’s concession stands.
Twins Big Dog: The quarter-pound all-beef dog will officially replace the Dome Dog and will be served at portable grills and select concessions stands. As with the Dome Dog, chips are included.
Dugout Dog: An old-fashion pork and beef hot dog in a natural casing, it will be sold in the stands by retro-attired vendors. The dogs will be steamed in vending boxes and placed in a bun when ordered, not pre-wrapped.
Dinger Dog: This extra-long pork and beef dog will also be available at select Hennepin Grille locations at Target Field…..
Posted on February 18, 2010 by Purple_PrideComments Off
I really hope that I at least get a chair in Minnesota while I'm on the bench. I hear that Glen Taylor really treats his players right!
That David Kahn has done it again! Another blockbuster, roster changing move in his quest to mold the Wolves into a championship caliber team,championship contender,playoff juggernaut, playoff contender, above .500 team, above 20 wins…..can we please just win the draft lottery, pick John Wall and trade Ricky Rubio’s rights to the Knicks & have them drastically overpay for Rubio? Is there ever going to be a day where something goes ridiculously in our favor?
Anyway, David Kahn (KKAAAAAHHHHHHNNNNNNNN!!!) has traded defensive stalwart and inside presence Brian Cardinal for the versatile, oft-traveled Darko Milicic!!! Anyone else dreaming of a Rubio-to-Darko combo for the next 13-15 years!! Better than Starbury-to-KG!!
Posted on February 10, 2010 by Purple_PrideComments Off
Just had a reader of BFMV.com write us to let us know that they were exploring the new stadium and even under a blanket of snow, it still looks “Amazing!”
Our reader watched as some testing of the scoreboard was going on, which revealed this possible lineup:
1) Span 2) Hudson 3) Mauer 4) Morneau 5) Kubel 6) Cuddyer 7) Hardy 8 ) Young 9) Punto
Is that our opening day lineup? Time will tell. Thanks for the info, Matt!!
Since we’re talking baseball, this is just a little something to get you in the mood for the season:
$220 million!!! That could buy like all of Denny Hecker's old dealerships!
With our ears on the ground listening for news coming via the footsteps of the pony express, your loyal writers at BFMV.com have heard from an inside source with the team that the Twins have an agreement to sign your hometown hero Joe Mauer (a.k.a. Baby Jesus) to a 10 year contract worth in the area of $220 million!
If our source ends up correct (our fingers are crossed) an announcement is expected today or tomorrow … you heard it here first folks. Happy day during this snow and we’re welcoming Spring Training with what hopes to be a newly signed Joe Mauer in the near future.
FYI – we’ll also have our ears open to be the first to report news of #4 coming back in 2010!!
FYI part II - I feel like Jay Glazer (if I’m right on this … If I end of being wrong, I’ll feel like Ed Werder, Adam Schefter, Chris Mortensen, Sid Hartman, Sal Paolantonio, etc …).
Posted on January 22, 2010 by Purple_PrideComments Off
Enjoyed this video from last night’s game. Marian Gaborik – yes, that Marian Gaborik … got into a fight last night. An no, it wasn’t a fight for the last dollop of salve to rub on his tender groin. It was a hockey fight. Ok, not so much a fight as it was a beat-down – don’t blink or you might miss it. Gabby goes down pretty quick – no wonder we had to keep Boogard on the Wild this year … have to have at least one enforcer after Rocky Gabby left.
Damn, I look good in purple...and you could too! Hey You! Yeah, I'm pointing at you - be my friend on Facebook!!!
Announcing the BFMV.com Refer-a-friend and win bonanza! To all you BFMV.com loyal readers and avid Vikings fans, it’s time to fill up the bandwagon with all of the fans who are now coming out of the woodwork leading up to the NFC Championship game against the Saints. For every friend that you refer that becomes a fan of BMFV.com on Facebook, you will be entered in a drawing for a brand new Brett Favre #4 Vikings Jersey to wear on Super Bowl Sunday!!! Let’s get 1,000 fans before the game on Sunday. So start now and refer all of your friends. And remember, WHO DAT? WE DAT!!! SKOL Vikings.
This from an email from a reader. Really puts a whole new spin on the Vikes game, rather than all of America (i.e. ESPN) basically giving the Cowboys a free pass to the NFC Championship. Don’t they actually have to play this game before a winner can be declared? Don’t the Cowboys actually have to come to Minnesota to play – where the Vikes are 8-0 this year?!?! Enjoy this email, I don’t think it can be laid out much clearer:
…..I’m tired of hearing about the Vikings second half collapse, and about the Cowboys being the hottest team in the NFL right now.
OK…let’s assume the Vikings were better in the first half than they were in the second half.
We all know the Vikings played totally different at home compared to on the road during that second half…..but does anyone really have a feel for how much different?
Taking ONLY the 2nd half games that were played at home…here are some numbers to let you know just how dominant the Vikings have been on their home turf over this stretch.
The Vikings played 5 games at home during the last 8 games of the season: They won all 5 games (indeed they are undefeated in all 8 home games this year….but since the official story line is about the Vikings falling apart the 2nd half I am concentrating only on those games)
In those 5 home games the Vikings scored an average of 34.4 points per game.
The fewest points they scored in any of those 5 games is 27. (T. Jackson and the 2nd stringers got playing time in the 2nd half of all 5 games….so I think it’s safe to assume more points could have been had.)
In those same 5 home games the Vikings gave up an average of 9.2 points per game. The most points they gave up to anyone in any of those 5 games is 10. (Again….many of those points, including the 7 scored by the Giants were against our scrubs)
That means during the second half of the season at home…the Vikings outscored their opponents by an average of 25.2 points per game.
The SMALLEST margin of victory in any of those games was 17 points. (27-10 against the Lions – and that is while giving their 2nd and 3rd stringers significant playing time in all 5 games)
Now let’s look at the other side of this….because not only are the Vikings playing at home…but the Cowboys are playing on the road.
During the last 8 games of the season, the Cowboys had 4 road games. Their win/loss record in those 4 games is 2-2 (50%)
In those 4 games they scored an average of 18 points per game. The most points they scored in any one of those games is 24 points (3 full points less than the fewest points the Vikings scored in any of those home games during the same stretch)
In those same 4 road games they gave up an average of 16.25 points per game. Meaning they have an average margin of Victory of 1.75 points per game while playing on the road over the second half of the season.
So…let’s put these stats side by side and see which team given the current situation (Vikings @ home….Cowboys on the road) looks better.
Average Points scored:
Vikings: 34.4 points/game
Cowboys: 18 points/game
Advantage Vikings by 16.4 points/game.
(Don’t forget…the MOST POINTS scored by the Cowboys in any of those games is 3 full points less than the LEAST POINTS scored by the Vikings in any of those games.)
Average Points given up:
Vikings: 9.2 points/game
Cowboys: 16.25 points/game
Advantage Vikings by 7.05 points/game.
Average Margin of Victory (aka Net points)
Vikings: 25.2 points/game
Cowboys: 1.75 points/game
Advantage Vikings by 23.45 points/game
Again…I can’t stress enough…that during this stretch the Vikings 2nd and 3rd stringers got significant playing time…so one could infer that their dominance could have been even more pronounced…..while Dallas never rested their 1st stringers in any of those games.
Home field advantage is very real folks. Until those last two home games against their hated division rivals NOBODY considered the Cowboys to be a play-off contender….now their suddenly the hottest team in the NFL???!!!!
If we were playing in Dallas, I could understand some of the angst…but this is in OUR house. Given the way the Cowboys have played on the road to end the season, compared to how the Vikings have played at home to end the season I honestly don’t understand how anyone could pick the Cowboys to win this game!!!
Former “slugger” Mark McGwire has come out with the shocking news that in fact, he used steroids. Wow. In other news, the sky is blue. Tell us something we don’t know, Mark.
These after the fact admissions really annoy the hell out of me. This information wasn’t important enough to be honest about when you were testifying in front of congress? Oh, wait a minute – “We aren’t here to talk about the past“….remind me to use that one next time I get accused/caught doing something I’m not supposed to be doing.
My girlfriend: “Did you forget that it was our anniversary/my birthday/Christmas/Valentines Day?”
Me: “Babe, I’m not here to talk about the past….” I don’t see any way how that wouldn’t work.
“I wish I had never touched steroids,” McGwire said in a statement. “It was foolish and it was a mistake. I truly apologize. Looking back, I wish I had never played during the steroid era.” Oh, and by the way – McGwire also used HGH, but didn’t apologize for that.
According to reports, McGwire’s decision to admit using steroids was prompted by his decision to become hitting coach of the St. Louis Cardinals, his final big league team. “I never knew when, but I always knew this day would come,” McGwire said. “It’s time for me to talk about the past and to confirm what people have suspected.”
I’m confused…So now we are talking about the past? (Don’t tell my girlfriend) But just when I want a new job? Or because I woke up this morning and decided to be a stand-up guy?
Baseball is a joke and becomes more and more of a joke as it lets players:
1) Get away with using PEDs by taking a almost laizze faire attitude towards drug testing in history of baseball.
2) Lie about it – See McGwire, Bonds, A-Rod, Canseco, Sosa, Palmeiro, Giambi, Tejada, etc…..
3) Doesn’t punish these players – ok, so you can’t suspend someone who isn’t in the league. But you can ban them from anything associated with MLB i.e. Pete Rose. McGwire cheated for over a decade – and you are going to not only let him be associated with MLB, but let him coach!?!?!?! Are you serious?!?!?
FYI – Don’t be surprised to hear from any of these players with a tearful “I shouldn’t have done this, it was so hard to tell my family, I didn’t honor the game……by the way my book is available at all Barnes & Noble booksellers and I’ll be at the Mall of America this Saturday for a book signing….” type B.S. statement.
And just for reference, here is something that will give you an idea of what would happen to any of you, if you were caught possessing steroids. Not me, though….I am setting records with my blogging. So I’ll get away with it because I need the HGH for all the carpal tunnel symptoms I get from typing up gems like this…
Well, the 2009 NFL regular season has come and gone. It went by a little too quick. But that means that the playoffs are here. And you know what makes the NFL playoffs a lot more interesting? The Vikings are in them! A #2 seed and playoff bye secured, the purple have been resting their weary bodies as the guru behing the Kick Ass Offense has been busy (ahem)game planning for the 3 possible Vikes opponents
So, being that we were basically perfect in our regular season predictions (I hope somebody went to Vegas and used our insight – though as much as it may seem, we are not a gambling website!), here are our head-to-head predictions for the NFL playoffs from your sports blogging idols.
Wild Card Round:
AFC:
NY Jets @ Cincinatti (-2.5) J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets….are going to L-O-S-E, lose, lose, lose. It in Cincinatti, Jets have a mediocre rookie QB at the helm. Expect a low scoring game, both defenses are better than the opposing offenses. Chad Ochocinco’s injury doesn’t sound too serious. Bengals 17-13.
Brett’s_BFF – The case for the Jets: Contrary to the overriding feeling that the Jets are “just happy to be here” after squeaking into the playoffs with a Week 17 victory and some help, the Jet do have two important things going in their favor: 1) Offensively they have one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL. No matter the game, the Jets rushing attack is consistent. Consistently good. As a Fantasy Football Thomas Jones owner, I know first hand the punishment he and his counterparts dish out each week. A heavy dose of running will take the pressure off of their rookie QB and keep the ball out of Carson Palmer and Chad Ochocinco’s hands. 2) They have a shut down cornerback. And I mean SHUT DOWN. Darrelle Revis has my vote for AFC Defensive Player of the year. He’s been on fire all year. Last week versus the Bengals he held Ochocinco without a catch in the first half until he had to leave with a knee injury. We’re looking forward to this rematch always vocal Ochocinco and Sit Down and Shut Up Revis. If the Jets can hit on both of those fronts – minimizing the need to ride Sanchez and remove the Bengals playmaker from the offense – they will win the game.
Baltimore @ New England (-3.5) I have a feeling that the Patriot dynasty is beginning to crumble. Wes Welker, the 2nd most important player on the team (yes, even more important than Laurence Maroney) is out with a shredded knee. He tore both his ACL & MCL. Now unless, one of Tom Brady’s kids can suit up and fill in, I don’t see much offense out of them. Baltimore in an upset 20-16.
Brett’s_BFF – The case for the Patriots: It’s lost a little bit of a glitz and glamour, but the Pats still have fashion faux paux Belichick on their sidelines. They have a challenge gaming-planning now after playboy and new daddy Brady lost his top receiver last week. How will they get Randy Moss the ball? He’s sure to see double teams all day. How will they make sure Randy Moss shows up to play all four quarters? The offensive questions are minuscule compared to the defensive questions. How in the heck are they going to stop Ray Rice? That boy is like a bowling ball on wheels. And the only wheels the Pats defense has is their wheeled chairs waiting for them in the locker room. The case for the Patriots starts and stops with Coach Belichick’s ability to pull a rabbit out of his hat, out-scheme the Ravens and make another run to the Super Bowl – solidifying them as the team of the decade.
NFC:
Philly @ Dallas (-4) Dallas dominated Philly last week in a big game for both teams. The NFC East title on the line, a possible playoff bye for the Eagles. I have to go with the Eagles here, if only for what it makes possible to happen in the divisional round at the Dome….Philly wins 27-20.
Brett’s_BFF – The case for the Cowboys: I know, I know … Wade Phillips has never won a playoff game. And Andy Reid is UNDEFEATED in first round playoff games. And the Eagles scare me (as a Vikings fan, flashback to 2008 playoffs) more than the Cowboys do. But you’ve got to hand it to the ‘Boys – they’ve really turned it up and have been playing unbelievable of late. Their running game with Felix Jones back and healthy has really made Tony Romo and the offense dangerous. Speaking of Romo, he’s no longer always heaving the ball downfield. He’s taking the shorter, underneath routes which has limited his turnovers. A recipe for success. On the other side of the ball, I don’t know if there’s been a better defense the past three weeks of the season. As McNabb can attest, the D-line is possessed and stopping whatever is thrown at them. I actually like the Cowboys in this game after their beat down of the Eagles last week. And would welcome them to Mall of America field for a divisional round game.
Green Bay @ Arizona (-1) Seems like all of America is just slobbering over Green Bay…again. Gag me. I just want them to win so they can come to the Dome and get their asses kicked again. Green Bay wins 31-23.
Brett’s_BFF – The case for the Arizona: It’s been done before, folks. Last year in fact. Everyone’s whipping dog in 2009, the Cardinals proved everyone wrong by catching the fire ignited by Kurt Warner. Can this year be just like last year? It’ll have to be. The Cardinals are without Boldin this week which means Fitzgerald will have to bring a whopper of a game. Look for a more balanced offensive attack against the #1 run defense with Beanie Wells in an attempt to keep Aaron Rodgers off the field. That’s a tall order for Wells and company, especially after the blowout in Week 17. The real question for this game is which Arizona defense will show up? The one who completely dominated our Minnesota Vikings? Or the pansy, disinterested defense that’s shown up throughout the year. We’d love to see the Packers get ousted in the first round … just not as much as them getting ousted by our Vikings at Mall of America field.
Divisional Round:
AFC:
Baltimore @ Indianapolis Has there ever been a player more valuable to a team than Peyton Manning is to the Colts? My guess is they would struggle to be a .500 team w/o him. Baltimore comes off a win in N.E., but can’t muster up 2 upsets on the road in a row. Indianapolis 24-17.
Cincinnati @ San Diego Discovered by the Germans in 1904, they named it San Diego, which of course in German means….a Chargers victory. Thank you, Ron Burgundy. Bar none, the hottest team in the NFL right now. See you in Miami. Chargers 38-14
NFC:
Philadelphia @ New Orleans 2 explosive offenses meet in the Big Easy for the right to play in the NFC Championship game. The “Who Dat Saints” (whatever the hell that means..anyone?) have looked more like the “Oh yeah, I remember…the Aints” lately and haven’t looked like a #1 seed since a beatdown of New England way back in week 11. If Philly is on with McNabb to Jackson/Maclin & Westbrook can come back and play, I expect a big upset – along with shredded defenses. Philly (gulp) wins 38-34.
Green Bay @ Minnesota Oh man, if this happens…it would be like total protonic reversal. Mass hysteria. Would John Madden come out of retirement for this one? I don’t think the Vikes would have as easy a time this go-round, the Packers have been playing some inspired ball. But I will do my part to distract Aaron Rodgers from section 105, row 28. You can thank me later. Vikes win 24-21.
Conference Championships:
San Diego @ Indianapolis Indy’s 14-0 start seems so long ago after a poor end to their season and a tough game against Baltimore. San Diego comes off a shellacking of the Bengals, still a very hot team. The Chargers go into Indy and out score the Colts. Enjoy your cross country flight to Miami. Chargers 31-27.
Philadelphia @ Minnesota Redemption for last year? As long as there is no T-Jack on the field. At home against Philly, I don’t think the Vikes season ends at the hands of the Eagles again. The Purple take this one 34-24.
Super Bowl
San Diego vs Minnesota If only this game were played on turf in a dome, the Vikes would run away with it. But its outdoors, on grass. We’ve all seen how the Vikes have played on the road and on grass. Though this is the same Chargers team that AP ran for an NFL record 296 yards against not too long ago. Maybe AP explodes again? Some Percy fireworks for the Florida fans? Brett Favre shops for a retirement home? All the Vikes need to do to guarantee a win is………..score more points than the Charges. GO VIKES!!!!
Posted on January 6, 2010 by Purple_PrideComments Off
Congrats to Percy Harvin, who was named the AP’s 2009 Offensive Rookie of the Year!!! Good to see all the “character” issues that plagued Harvin coming into the draft have not been an issue as Harvin ran away with the ROY honor with 41 out of 50 votes (2nd place Michael Oher had 6 votes – but he also has a book and a movie about him, what more do you want?!?)
Harvin becomes the sixth Vikings player to win the honor, joining Adrian Peterson (2007), Randy Moss (1998), Sammy White (1976), Chuck Foreman (1973) and Paul Flatley (1963) – Flatley, that sounds familiar…cousins? The Rookie of the Year honors comes a few days after Harvin was named to the Pro Bowl to cap off what has been a great rookie season so far.
The versatile Harvin finished the season with 60 receptions (2nd on the Vikings) for 790 yards and six touchdowns. Not only an important cog in the passing game, Harvin finished fourth in the NFL in kickoff returns, with a 27.5 yard average and two touchdowns. Harvin’s 60 catches tied the Colts’ Austin Collie for most receptions by a rookie in the NFL this season and were the second most by a Vikings rookie, falling short of Randy Moss’ 69 catches in 1998. Most surprising to me is the fact that Harvin set a Vikings single season record for all-purpose yards.
Now, if he can just get a handle on those migraines – maybe he needs some medicinal marij….aspirin.
Posted on December 17, 2009 by Purple_PrideComments Off
Its good to finally hear some positive news about the Vikes stadium discussion and what seems like a step forward to getting this process moving forward — albeit a small step … and again since this process was done a couple years ago too. But like Dr. Leo Marvin says — “Baby Steps”. If it worked for Bob Wiley … then it can work for the Vikes.
Sounds like there were 4-5 proposals that were drawn up by some guy with some guy who knows a guy who has what is some pretty cool software and represented by a guy who apparently loves watercolor paintings. (Maybe it was Bob Ross who did the wonderful paintings?)
The pros of the new (and most likely) of the proposals:
-An $870 million price tag – a lot of money, yes … but down from previous estimates of $954 million. This is due to lower product and labor costs.
-A retractable roof, which makes this facility a year round destination for events like concerts, monster truck rallies, motocross, Billy Graham-type stuff, FINAL FOURS, SUPER BOWLS, among other things…
-Tear down the Dome and build on that site. Keeps the stadium downtown, so Hubert’s can stay in business.
-According to the Metropolitan Sports Commission – Minnesota sports teams have generated $450 million in tax revenue since 1961. Is that a lot? I’m not sure, but I can only imagine that rate will increase just based on the higher amounts spent these days than in the past 50 years. Plus, taxes are going up … so we’ve got that going for us(?)
Anyway, the time for a decision on a new Vikes stadium is here — whether people like it or not. Please get this done, so we don’t have to hear about it anymore. 10 years is long enough….
In other news -
Bengals WR Chris Henry has died from injuries suffered when he was thrown from the back up a pickup truck in what sounds like a domestic disturbance gone way too far….
In other “you-could-not-have-surprised-me-less” news – sounds like Tiger is getting dumped. About time, Elin. Surprised you gave him this long … maybe its the smart thing to do before settling on anything in the divorce proceedings, gives a chance for other “ladies” to comes out of Tiger’s past. Cha-ching!!!
Posted on December 2, 2009 by Purple_PrideComments Off
1. New Orleans (11-0) +1 The Saints are rolling after a thrashing of the Patriots on Monday Night Football. I’m not really surprised by the way the Saints offense walked (or passed) all over the Pats D, but was way more impressed with the way they stifled Tom Brady & New England’s passing attack. Current Super Bowl favorite and likely undefeated regular season. Also on pace to break New England’s single season scoring record. I’m pretty sure Drew Brees birthmark = Samson’s hair. Combined record of Saints opponents: 22-33 (2nd easiest in the NFL). Go luck with all that, NO.
2A. Minnesota (10-1) +1 Another week, another team that is spanked by the Vikes in pretty much every facet of the game. Favre has a huge game, the defense dominates, especially in the 2nd half where I think they allowed a total of 2(!) yards of total offense to the Bears. Domination. A little worrisome is the fumblitis that AP has seen flare up again. I’m ok with his limited (for AP) production, as teams are still stacking the line to stop the run – that opens up the passing game for yards in bunches. Plus, when Chester Taylor has been in games, he has been impressive. If the Vikes can somehow wrangle away home-field advantage in the playoffs, they’ll go to the Super Bowl.
2B. Indianapolis (11-0) -1 Ok, this sounds familiar … A 4th 5th week in a row that the Colts squeeze out a narrow win, but after last weeks win over a very strongPatriots good Ravens team, they continue to build an impressive resume with an 18-15 35-27 win over the Ravens Texans. I’m always going to err on the side of caution, because its so easy for a hiccup to occur in an NFL season, but I do think it is time to seriously consider an undefeated regular season for these Colts the Colts shutting it down and resting their starters. Remaining games: @ Houston, Tennessee, Denver, @ Jacksonville, Jets, @ Buffalo. Combined record of remaining opponents: 28-32 27-28. Keep in mind, though, the Colts have a history of resting starters when they have their postseason seed wrapped up – which could be as early as week 13.
4. San Diego Chargers (8-3) +1 This is where I think the Chargers will peak for awhile in the rankings, but they have been looking really good in the midst of their 6 game winning streak. The most recent victory was a 43-14 win over the Chiefs. I wish I lived in San Diego.
5. Cincinnati Bengals (8-3) +1 The Bengals have swept their division, beating the Ravens, Steelers & Browns twice…5 of the last 6 times that has happened, that team has gone on to win the Super Bowl. Pretty remarkable turnaround in Cincy, but don’t quite see the Bengals as viable Super Bowl contenders – yet.
6. New England Patriots (7-4) -2 As stated above, the Pats got killed in New Orleans. They did not look impressive in any part of the game. Do I still find the Pats very dangerous? Yes. We could have dropped them lower after MNF’s debacle, but would you really put $100 on any of those teams below to beat the Pats?
7. Dallas Cowboys (8-3) +1 A Thanksgiving Day win over the Raiders at the new Cowboys Stadium keeps Dallas atop of the NFC East, holding a 1 game lead over Philly. In other news, Jessica Simpson wants Tony Romo back – Dallas is doomed (well, if Tony takes her back – doubtful, as she is looking pretty homely lately).
8. Arizona Cardinals (7-4) -1 The Cardinals lose to a very hot Titans team 20-17. Though the game was played with Matt Leinart as the Cards QB, and it looks like Leinart will get the start in AZ vs the Vikes this Sunday night. Despite the loss (and likely loss to Minnesota) Arizona still will have the lead in an annually weak NFC West.
9. Philadelphia Eagles (7-4) NR Philly is in a battle for the NFC East with Dallas, trailing by 1 game, though has lost to Dallas already this year. The teams meet in the season finale in Dallas which could be for the NFC East crown (though the loser will probably still get one of the wildcard spots in the NFC). Question for Andy Reid – why in the hell are you still putting Michael Vick in at QB? (More perplexing may be that in 7.5% of ESPN fantasy football leagues, Vick is on someone’s roster)
10. Tennessee Titans (5-6) NR After an 0-6 start, the arm and legs of Vince Young and legs & grill of Chris Johnson have guided the Titans to 5 straight wins and amazingly back in the AFC Wildcard race. Chris Johnson leads the NFL in rushing by a lotand is on pace to run for over 2,000 yards – that on only about 20 rushing attempts/game with his 6.4 YPC average. Just for fun, if the Titans give him the ball 25 times per game at that average for the remaining 5 games…season total: 2,196 yds (and new rushing record) and the guy is only 24 yrs old. Huge game for the Titans @ Indy this weekend.
On the bubble: Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars
Posted on November 28, 2009 by Purple_PrideComments Off
Apologies for getting week 12 Picks and Previews out a little later than usual – we are still feeling the effects of our food coma from Thanksgiving – hope you had a good one. We may also be feeling the effects of a 3-0 week last week. But what have you done for me lately, right?!?! Some very big and very exciting match-ups this week.
SNF: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens (-1.5) (over/under 39) Historically, these have been 2 of the most smashmouth teams in the NFL. Both have been well known for strong defenses and pounding running games, though lately each has evolved a new, explosive offensive attack. The Steelers attack comes through through the air with Ben Roethlisberger targeting talented receivers like Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes and Heath Miller, while the Ravens are guided by the young Joe Flacco and do-everything back Ray Rice.
The Ravens, with young & explosive RB Ray Rice, almost assuredly need a win to keep themselves in postseason contention. With their record of 5-5, a lost would not only put them at 5-6, but 2.5 games behind the Steelers, and 3.5 games 3.5 games behind the AFC North leading Bengals, which puts them well behind in the overall AFC Wildcard race. Ray Rice & Joe Flacco lead the Ravens offense, which has been non-existent at times, but can be a little dangerous – see quarters 1-3 & 4 respectively, against the Vikings for examples. Lately though, they have been on the non-existent, as they failed to score an offensive TD in their loss to Indy last week….for the 2 game in a row.
The Steelers come off an embarrassing loss to the 2-7 (now 3-7) Chiefs, losing 27-24 in OT after blowing a 10 point lead…their 2nd loss in a row QB Ben Roethlisberger, though passing post-concussion tests earlier this week, may still feel the effects of a knee to the head near the end of the KC game. He will play. Troy Polamalu, however, will not.
We’ve talked about the success — or lack there of — for the Steelers without their defensive leader Troy Polamalu in the game. He’s been in and out this year. Sounds like the Ravens will have one of their defensive leaders on the sideline as well. As of Friday Ravens starting linebacker Terrell Suggs was listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game because of a right knee injury. Plus linebacker Ray Lewis (foot) and safety Ed Reed (illness, foot) are both questionable. If that trio doesn’t suit up for the game, we see the Steelers getting back to their traditional bread and butter and grinding out the game on the ground winning the ball control game. Mendenhall will have a good game if the Ravens can’t field their traditional 3-4 defense. Steelers over the Ravens 23-15. UPDATE – Saturday 12:45pm: QB Ben Roethlisberger has been ruled out for this game. Third string QB and second year player Dennis Dixon will get the start. This calls for an extra order of Mendenhall.
MNF: New England Patriots @ New Orleans Saints (-2) (over/under 56) Our team at BFMV.com is most excited about this game during week 12. Not only because it has direct implications on our beloved Vikings squad and its postseason travel schedule, but also because it pits the ‘best’ team (record-wise might we add) against the team of the 2000’s — the Patriots. The Saints come into the game as the only undefeated team in the NFC and as the current #1 seed. However they’re still hearing questions about their strength of schedule and about their defense. Is it for real?
The Patriots come in with numerous seasoned and battle-tested weapons — most namely Brady, Moss … and Belichick. Now I’ve yet to do any reading from the so-called experts on this game (See: Turkey Coma), but I love this match-up…not because of the players on the Patriots, but because of what Belichick will do on offense to see if the Saints defense is for real. What will he have up his sleeve? Our guess is that he’ll attack the injured secondary with all its might. Brady and Moss will have HUGE days — circa 1998-2001 for Moss. Belichick will take a look at a secondary that leads the NFL in interceptions with 20 and attack them straight on. Heck, there’s a reason why Sharper had so many Vikings fans irritated with him play after play last year — he’s lot a step. Or ten. He can’t freelance against Tom Brady the way he did/does younger QB’s like Stafford or Ryan. The only two QB’s this defense has faced this year worth anything have been McNabb and Eli Manning. And they aren’t in the same league as Brady.
Look for this to be a pass happy game with Belichick scheming just enough to hold down the Saint offense and squeak out a win. They took undefeated Indy down to the wire, losing in the final seconds. Coach Belichick won’t make the same mistake twice. Patriots 34 Saints 28. Welcome to the big time Sharper and team.
Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings (-11) over/under 47) Coming off their most complete game of the year – a victory over the Seahawks – the Vikings will look to establish the running game early and keep Our Boy Brett untouched until the third quarter when T-Jack will get some playing time.
Last weeks the Bears — and my fantasy football QB (ouch) — Cutler faired a bit better in a winnable game versus the Eagles. Cutler waited until the last drive to throw an interception this time. Much better than the week before when he threw four. Or was it five? Lost count. Where’s my abacus? Either way, the defensive backs should be pumped for this game and looking for picks.
On offense, reports are out that Adrian Peterson is questionable for the game. Please, please — if he’s not ready don’t let him suit up. Chester Taylor has proven to be a worthy runner this year and hasn’t had much work. Let’s get him in the game and let him roll. The Bears secondary is in shambles and the offense should have its pick of weapon on any play. Play conservative, keep the team healthy and move on to the next game. Does this picture properly encompass how we feel about this game? Vikings 24 Bears 9
Received my #twins post season invoice. $12k spent on season tix isn't enough to get more playoff tix; MLB controls inventory for postseason10:17:46 AM August 30, 2010from web
Amazing restraint by #Twins: We fork over $350 million to help build TField, they wait 0 seasons to raise tix prices. #greedy10:13:43 AM August 30, 2010from web
Never one to shy away from the spotlight, the NFL delayed its announcement of the 2010 season until the days leading up to the 2010 NFL Draft! The Vikings 2010 schedule can be found 
Congrats to Percy Harvin, who was named the 
