FOF 2007: Purple Pride

[Wonder Bear]

2006 - 2007 Minnesota Vikings

Introduction:
This is the first time that I'll be documenting a dynasty of FOF2k7 on this forum. I've been keeping up with a few others and have really been enjoying them ( I need to actually start commenting on them). In this dynasty I took control of the Minnesota Vikings in 2003 and simmed (to 2006) using real draft classes. I have not touched anything in this dynasty, and I simmed 3 season to give the league a little bit of history and to mix things up a little. Comments are very welcome!

Game Settings:

• X-Factor On.
• Personality profiles and team chemistry activated.
• Using Nilodor's draft/roster files.
• Injuries set at 100.
• Cap increase ranges from 75 to 95.

I will be providing updates every four game weeks. I feel that updating every four weeks rather than after every game or so will give more of an overview on the current season, rather than going into too much detail on one isolated game. Depending on if I make the playoffs or not, the update following the end of the regular season will probably be regarding offseason plans. The updates will come in the following order:

1. Start of Preseason (Current Update)
2. End of Preseason
3. End of Week 4
4. End of Week 8
5. End of Week 12
6. End of Regular Season

Start of Preseason Update will include:
2003-2006 League Summary
2003-2006 Minnesota Vikings Summary
2006 Preseason Roster/Expectations
2006 Staff Evaluation
2006 Season Goals
2006 General Team Information
Additional Team News



2003 - 2006 League Evaluation:The three year evaluation tracks regular season W-L record, Division Titles, Playoff Births, Super Bowl Appearances and Super Bowl Titles. There is also a brief summary of each team going into the upcoming season. I decided to do a league summary in order to give me a better feel of where the league is going, and felt it would make it easier for anyone that chooses to follow this to see the state of the league and give the league a more personal feel.

AFC North

1. Baltimore Ravens (32-16), 2 Division Titles, 2 playoff appearances, 1 Super Bowl Championship.
Defending Super Bowl Champions. The Ravens are led by their defense and the steady play of Ray Lucas (92.9 Passer Rating). As long as the offense doesn't lose the game, the Ravens always stand a chance. One of the younger teams in the league and should be competative for years to come.

2. Cincinnati Bengals (26-22), 1 Division Title, 1 playoff appearance.
Had a very slow start to 2005, beginning the season 2-6. Caught fire after the Week 9 bye and finished the season 7-1. The potential of Carson Palmer [52/94] and arguably the league's best receiver in Chad Johnson [89/89] make the Bengals a dangerous team entering 2006.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers (22-26).
The Steeler defense is a highly talented unit. Led by All-Pro defenders SLB Jerry Porter [71/71] and Troy Polamalu [86/86], the defense can compete with anyone in the league. The achilles heal of the team is the offense, which averaged only 15.4 ppg (30th in the league). The Steelers drafted rookie RB Terrence Whitehead and have handed the reins of the offense over to second year QB Charlie Frye. If the Steelers plan on breaking into the playoffs, the offense needs to step up.

4. Cleveland Browns (18-30).
The Browns have shown encouraging signs each of the past three years, improving on their win total (4, 6, 8) every season. On the offensive side of the ball, the Browns will be leaning heavily on rookie RB Chris Taylor [44/58] and two time All-Pro (03, 04) Randy Moss [76/76]. DB Chris Gamble [70/73] and WLB Demarcus Ware [64/65] anchor a young defensive unit looking to improve. If the Browns stay on course, they could find themselves right in the middle of the playoff hunt.

AFC South

1. Indianapolis Colts (32-16), 2 Division Titles, 3 playoff appearances, 1 Super Bowl appearance.
The Colts seemingly had the perfect set of ingredients to make a second straight run for the AFC Title in 2005, but that dream was cut short when 2005 NFL MVP QB Peyton Manning was injured in a Divisional Round playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Prior to Manning's injury the Colts flexed their offensive muscle in 2005, averaging 27.8 ppg (1st in the league). Manning's injury was not the only major loss the Colts faced in 2005. Talented WR Reggie Wayne has been oft-injured for the past two years, and it looks like has has lost a step or two. This team has the talent to make a title run, but the window is closing.

2. Tennessee Titans (32-16), 1 Division Title, 3 playoff appearances.
The Titans live and die on the shoulders of Iron Man (and two time league MVP) Steve McNair. Air McNair has carried the Titans to three straight playoff appearances, and they still remain among the league's elite. McNair is coming off of a serious knee injury acquired in an opening round playoff loss in Miami. The offensive line needs to be better (48 sacks allowed, 5th worst) to keep McNair healthy and their quest for a Super Bowl alive.

3. Houston Texans (20-28).
There's no reason for optimism in Houston. While WR Andre Johnson [93/93] shines in the Lone Star State, the rest of the team remains dull. After three lackluster season from David Carr, the Texans are turning to second year, 1st round pick Aaron Roger [10/59]. Johnson should be able to help Rogers if the offensive line can give Rogers any time at all.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars (19-29).
The Jaguars posses a reliable defense and an efficient offense. On offense, the Jaguars focus on feeding the ball to RB Willie Parker [66/71] and limiting mistakes with David Gerrard and the passing game. WR Mark Bradley [36/61] is going into his first season starting, and should help stretch the field and keep defenses honest. If the Jaguars are able to win some close games, they could be looking at a Wild Card birth.

AFC East

1. New England Patriots (27-21), 1 playoff appearance.
The Patriots began 2005 with a record of 8-2, but a lackluster performance down the stretch (2-4) knocked them out of the playoffs for a second straight year. The offense, led by all-everything Tom Brady (4,450 passing yards in 05), finished with a ranking of 1st in passing yardage and 7th in rushing yards last year, and also scored the 3rd most points in the league. The addition of rookie TE Vernon Davis [46/70] provides another option to an already lethal offense. They were a middle of the pack defense last year, but don't necessarily need to improve very much. As long as the defense can provide a few timely turnovers, the Patriots should return to the playoffs.

2. New York Jets (27-21), 1 Division Title, 2 playoff appearances, 1 Super Bowl appearance.
Over the past 3 seasons the Jets win total has dropped every year (12, 10, 5). Though this trend is a downward trend, the Jets were in most games during the 2005 season. They lost 5 games by 6 points or less. The defense is average with a very weak LB core. Sean Ellis [85/85] is the focal point of the aging defensive unit. On the offensive side of the ball, the Jets must look to get the ball to big play WR Santana Moss. Moss and RB Lamont Jordan must be a large part of the offense if the Jets intend on returning to the playoff race.

3. Buffalo Bills (26-22), 1 Division Title, 1 playoff appearance.
In 2005 the Bills began the year 1-6, but they were able to fight their way back to finish 7-9 on the season. The offensive and defensive units are both equally as strong on this veteran squad. The Bills (the oldest team in the league) will be able to make one last playoff push if they can give vetern Drew Bledsoe time in the pocket. Efficient play of Bledsoe, coupled with hard running by RB Willis McGahee (17 TDs in 04) will be the make or break of the 2006 Bills.

4. Miami Dolphins (24-24), 1 playoff appearance.
The 2005 AFC East Champs are back, but repeating won't be easy. The offense is the clear stregnth of Miami. The receiving core is lead by the dynamic duo of Larry Fitzgerald [63/72] and Chris Chambers (8 TDs in 05). TE Randy McMichael [67/67] is also a valuable weapon for QB Ben Roethlisberger to use. On the ground, Ricky Williams [66/66] viable source of production. As long as the D can hold opponents around 20, the Dolphins have a legitimate shot of at least winning the AFC East crown.

AFC West

1. Denver Broncos (26-22), 1 playoff appearance.
The Broncos were lead by their defense in 2005, which gave up a league leading 14.4 ppg. Though the defense is stingy, it is aging and doesn't have many years left. On offense, RBs Clinton Portis and Julius Jones shoulder the load. In 2005 they combined for 1,992 yards and 13 TDs. Ball control and limiting Jake Plummer's mistakes will be the key to success.

2. Kansas City Chiefs (25-23), 2 Division Titles, 2 playoff appearances.
QB Tony Banks was the story of the 2005 AFC West Champs. Banks came out of nowhere, starting 10 games for the Steelers and posting a 73.1 QB rating in 2004, and then starting 16 games for KC in 2005 while putting up a 95.7 QB rating. Banks was helped by RB Larry Johnson (league leading 424 carries) posting a 1,700 yard season. Improved play from the defense and the health of Larry Johnson are most important to a second straight AFC West Title.

3. San Diego Chargers (21-27), 1 Division Title, 1 playoff appearance.
The Chargers only managed 16.3 ppg in 2005, and this was mainly due to Drew Brees' inconsistancy. If Brees is able to throw the ball more effectively and open up running lanes for RB LaDainian Tomlinson [86/86], San Diego will be extremely difficult to stop.

4. Oakland Raiders (19-29).
The Raiders lost the final 9 games of the 2005 season, and this was due to an painfully stagnant offense. Oakland has to hope that rookie QB Omar Jacobs [34/67] (2nd pick ovr) can jumpstart the offense. The defense is a respectable unit, with a pair of cover corners, Charles Woodson [68/68] and Nnamdi Asomugha [67/67], that rival any in the league.

NFC North

** 1. Minnesota Vikings (26-22), 2 Division Titles, 3 playoff appearances.
Evaluation below.

2. Green Bay Packers (25-23), 1 Division Title, 1 playoff appearance.
The 2005 NFC North Champions were kept in games because of their defense (15.6 ppg). Age is a concern with this team, and the window of opportunity may be shut. If Ahman Green and Brett Favre have enough left in the tank, the Packers are a dangerous team.

3. Detroit Lions (22-26).
An average but young defense will need to step up in 2005 if the Lions plan on making the playoffs. Rookies Kellen Clemens (QB) and Maurice Jones Drew (RB) are both starting, and will need time to adjust. The faster these guys adjust to the NFL, the better the chances for the Lions.

4. Chicago Bears (9-39).
After three straight miserable seasons, things are starting to look up for Chicago. On the offensive side of the ball, QB Rex Grossman [62/76] will look to generate most of the offense. He'll be aided by 2nd year RB Frank Gore [47/65] and a pair of rookie receivers who are very promising. On defense, LBs Lance Briggs [55/74] and Brian Urlacher [73/73] will lead the front seven. SS Mike Brown (7 ints in 05) and LCB Bryant McFadden [51/70] will keep offenses honest. For the first time in years, Chicago has something to look forward to.

NFC South

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (28-20), 2 Division Titles, 2 playoff appearances, 1 Super Bowl Championship
15-1 to 2-14 in a matter of three years is unheard of, but the Bucs were able to pull it off. The Bucs used their first pick in the draft to select RB Laurence Maroney [60/67] in hopes that he will bolster the offense and take some pressure off of second year QB J.P. Losman. The OL is a unit that can get the job done to both provide running lanes for Maroney and time for Losman to throw. The defense is still good, but is aging. Rebuilding on the defensive side of the ball is needed.

2. Atlanta Falcons (25-23), 1 Division Title, 2 playoff appearances.
The Falcons are a relatively weak team on both sides of the ball, with a couple of stars on each side. The offensive line is a good group aside from a glaring weakness at LT. TE Alge Crumpler [79/79] and rookie WR Santonio Holmes [38/76] will enable some big plays. SS Bryan Scott [69/73] and WLB Teddy Lehman [68/68] are the young stars on an older group.

3. Carolina Panthers (25-23), 1 playoff appearance.
The Panthers have battled around .500 for the past three years, and that's because of their tough defense (1st in takeaways in 05). To help the defense, the Panthers selected RB Leon Washington [54/68] to control the clock and let the defense rest. As long as QB Matt Cassel can put up some decent numbers, the Panthers should be in the playoff race.

4. New Orleans Saints (18-30).
The Saints were 8-8 last year, and look to take the next step into the playoffs in 2005. Running backs Deuce McAllister [54/54] and rookie Mike Ihmo [36/59] will provide a dynamic aspect to the offense. This running game combined with Kellen Winslow Jr. in the pass game should make for at least an efficient offense.

NFC East

1. Philadelphia Eagles (32-16), 3 Division Titles, 3 playoff appearances, 2 Super Bowl appearances, 1 Super Bowl Championship.
The 2005 Eagles had their worst regular season to date (9-7) but were able to make a run all the way to the Super Bowl. The defending NFC Champion returns all of the important playmakers of 2005, and there is no reason to think that the Eagles, led by McNabb, can't stay on top for a couple more years.

2. New York Giants (21-27), 1 playoff appearance.
The Giants are an all around average team. Solid offensive line play will always give them a chance to execute. Running back Tiki Barber [50/50] is still running strong (1,300 yards in 2005), but QB Kerry Collins needs to improve upon a QB rating of 65.6 if the Giants have any postseason dreams.

3. Dallas Cowboys (20-28).
The biggest move for the Cowboys in the offseason was the drafting of fan favorite Texas QB Vince Young. Young has a strong back behind him in Steven Jackson [60/68] and a deep receiving core. The defense is mixed with some young talent and some aging players, and is all around respectable.

4. Washington Redskins (18-30).
The Redskins have a talented defense, but it is beginning to wear down. Offensively they have a strong OL that should be able to protect 2nd year QB Alex Smith [36/58]. Big play receiver Lavernaues Coles should see a lot of balls thrown his way as Smith leans on him as he gets a better feel for the NFL.


NFC WEST

1. Seattle Seahawks (34-14), 2 Division Titles, 3 playoff appearances.
Offensively the Seahawks are one of the most potent teams in the league. The Seahawks rely heavily on the running of 1,500 yard RB Shaun Alexander [72/72] and arm of Matt Hasselbeck [71/71]. Behind the blocking of Steve Hutchinson and Walter Jones Shaun Alexander looks to put up another great year, and lead the Seahawks closer to the Super Bowl.

2. St. Louis Rams (28-20) 1 Division Title, 2 playoff appearances.
The Rams will be making another run at the NFC West crown, relying heavily on QB Kurt Warner. Warner's ability to create big plays with WRs Torry Holt (14 TDs in 05) and Shaun McDonald [64/64] is going to carry the Rams.


3. Arizona Cardinals (21-27).
The Cardinals, who finished 2005 with a record of 7-9, have gotten a little younger. They are going with rookie QB Drew Olson [12/50] out of UCLA, and offensively this team doesn't have many weapons. They are starting another rookie, WR Chad Jackson [35/53], opposite of All-Pro receiver Anquan Boldin [71/71]. This season is going to be more about seeing what the Cardinals have rather than winning and losses.


4. San Francisco (20-28).
The 49ers are one of the older teams in the league, and have about average talent on both sides of the ball. Offensively they are led bytwo of their youngest stars, QB Phillip Rivers [40/61] and rookie RB Andre Hall [53/63] out of South Florida. The 49ers will be battling to make it to .500.


2003-2006 Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have made the playoffs each of the last three years, but it's more because of a weak NFC North than a strong Vikings team.

2003, 7-9 Division Champs, Wild Card L 17-44 vs. Seattle Seahawks
2004, 9-7 Division Champs, Wild Card W 27-24 vs. Atlanta Falcon, Divisional L 10-27 @ Philadelphia Eagles
2005, 10-6 Wild Card Birth, Wild Card W 34-13 @ Atlanta Falcons, Divisional W 10-6 @ Seattle Seahawks, Conference Champ. L 6-27 @ Philadelphia Eagles.

Though the Vikings have made the playoffs the last three years, I don't know if I consider this encouraging. Clearly for at least two of the three years we were mediocre, and only made it because of a weak division. Over the past three seasons I have noticed two glaring negatives in my eyes.

• Dante Culpepper failed to live up to expectations. He was around [32/32] when I first began and was never able to beat out Ferotte for playing time.
• After 2004 the AI chose to let Randy Moss go, which made me a little disappointed. He was coming off a 127 catch, 14 TD season, so I'm sure he was demanding quite a bit of money.

Some of the positives that I have found:

• Fan support in general and support for a new stadium is quite high.
• The AI has provided me with plenty of cap room to work with and has also given me the youngest team in the league.

2006 Roster Preview

Minnesota Vikings Offense

 Player                #   Pos   Start Exp  Current Estimate  Future Estimate 
Batch, Charlie          11  QB          9    33                33
Marsh, Kenneth          10  QB    QB    4    13                45
Smith, Alex             18  QB          4    10                42
Hawkins, Ben            1   QB          1    13                46

After the departure of 2005 starter Michael Vick, the QB position is one of our weakest going into 2006. With not much current talent, 4th year man Kenneth Marsh has been given the start. Hopefully with his high volatility (73) he can improve enough to hold down the starting job.
Position Grade: D+

Player                #   Pos   Start Exp  Current Estimate  Future Estimate
Bennett, Michael        33  RB          6    39                39
Toefield, LaBrandon     40  RB    RB    4    34                45
Williams, Moe           43  RB          11   21                21
Echemandu, Adimchinobe  25  RB          3    34                43
Tapeh, Thomas           38  FB    FB    3    33                34
Cruz, Ronnie            26  FB          2    13                30

Toefield and Bennett will be sharing carries at about a 60/40 rate for the 2006 season. If neither of them are able to produce a consistent option on the ground, going outside of the organization for some help on the ground will be necessary.
Position Grade: C-

Player                #   Pos   Start Exp  Current Estimate  Future Estimate
Kleinsasser, Jim        89  TE          8    51                51
Benn, Bennie            85  TE          4    23                41
Miller, Heath           88  TE    TE    2    62                69

Second year TE Heath Miller should be a very reliable option for Kenneth Marsh as he gains some NFL experience. Miller is one of the league's many talented young TE's and has a bright future ahead of him. Kleinsasser is a good backup and could start on a handful of NFL rosters.
Position Grade: B

Player                #   Pos   Start Exp  Current Estimate  Future Estimate
Davis, Nick             82  FL          5    38                38
Newhouse, Reggie        83  FL          3    21                37
Edwards, Braylon        86  FL    FL    2    61                62
Ford, Carl              84  FL          2    18                36
Burleson, Nate          80  SE    SE    4    59                59
Becker, Steven          81  SE          1    15                51

Braylon Edwards and Nate Burleson are one of the most talented receiving duos in the NFL. Behind Edwards and Burleson we have rookie WR Steven Becker who has the potential to be a very serviceable receiver. The receiving core as a whole is not very deep, however, and if Burleson or Edwards goes down it could prove disastrous.
Position Grade: B

Player                #   Pos   Start Exp  Current Estimate  Future Estimate
Birk, Matt              51  C           9    37                37
Withrow, Corey          54  C           7    41                41
Mangold, Nick           57  C     C     1    27                66
Smiley, Justin          67  LG    LG    3    47                47
Liwienski, Chris        70  RG          9    20                20
Setterstrom, Mark       63  RG          1    18                54
Stevenson, Dan          73  RG    RG    1    27                37
McKinnie, Bryant        78  LT    LT    5    64                64
Snyder, Adam            69  LT          2    34                41
Krug, Otis              76  LT          1    8                 53
Lozano, Craig           61  RT    RT    1    18                57

Aside from Bryant McKinnie, not much can be expected from this line in 2006. With three rookies starting on the O-Line there is a very high chance for some growing pains. If each of these three are able to live up to their potential, the growing pains should be worth it.
Position Grade: D+


Offensively it looks like we'll be running primarily to the left side of the line, behind LT Bryant McKinnie (71 run blk) and LG Justin Smiley (52 run blk). Toefield and Bennett are quick and elusive, but aren't necessarily the most talented backs in the league. Pass blocking from the line as a whole isn't very strong, and is especially weak on the right side. Because of this (and the inexperience at the QB position) targeting short/intermediate passes looks to be the goal of the passing offense. Talented WRs and TEs should help out Kenneth Marsh this season. Limiting mistakes and generating a ground game will be the main focus on offense in 2006.
Total Offensive Grade: C-


Minnesota Vikings Defense

Player                #   Pos   Start Exp  Current Estimate  Future Estimate
Idonije, Israel         71  LDE         3    31                48
Haralson, Parys         90  LDE   LDE   1    26                58
Wimbley, Kamerion       94  LDE         1    25                48
Hali, Tamba             75  RDE   RDE   1    29                61
Hawkins, Brent          74  RDE         1    21                47
Williams, Kevin         99  LDT   LDT   4    59                70
Drame, Kader            91  LDT         1    16                50
Pynter, William         98  RDT         4    21                41
Tornberg, Cris          97  RDT   RDT   4    29                51
Burns, Calvin           79  RDT         1    17                47

Though the Viking D-Line is young (2 rookie starters), it has a lot of promise. The line will be anchored by fan favorite Kevin Williams. Tamba Hali has the potential to be a fierce pass rusher very soon. The youth of the line will be the weakness going into 2006.
Position Grade: C

Player                #   Pos   Start Exp  Current Estimate  Future Estimate
Hayes, Gerald           50  MLB   MLB   4    28                55
Henderson, E.J.         96  MLB         4    38                39
Ulmer, Artie            59  MLB         10   28                28
Barton, Eric            93  SLB         8    40                40
Pope, Derrick           58  SLB         3    30                43
Williams, Jamar         55  SLB   SLB   1    41                66
Gooch, Jeff             52  WLB   WLB   11   38                38
Grootegoed, Matt        53  WLB         2    18                40
Woodley, Jackie         56  WLB         1    12                52

The loss of WLB Nick Rogers [54/54] to free agency was certainly a tough loss. Rookie Jamar Williams (26th pick ovr) will be thrust into the starting lineup, and is already the best LB on the team. Aside from Williams, both Gooch and Hayes will need to step up big time to help the defense. Jackie Woodley is a very raw player with a lot of talent, he could see increased minutes if Gooch disappoints.
Position Grade: D

O'Neal, Deltha          20  LCB         7    39                39
Wansley, Tim            37  LCB         5    25                40
Hall, DeAngelo          44  LCB   LCB   3    57                67
Williams, Brian         34  RCB   RCB   5    38                47
Lynn, Matt              31  RCB         1    21                45
Chavous, Corey          36  SS    SS    9    63                63
Offord, Willie          35  SS          5    32                49
Ohalete, Ifeanyi        29  FS          6    41                41
Shaw, Brad              41  FS    FS    4    61                61
Shields, Walter         32  FS          1    21                52

The secondary is easily the strength of this weaker defensive unit (accounted for third most INTs in 05). Led by stars DeAngelo Hall and Corey Chavous (120 tackles in 05), it is one of the toughest secondaries in the league to attack. This year we'll need to be able to find a way to hide Brian Williams, as he is the only weak link in the secondary.
Position Grade: B+


The defense will struggle this year simply because of the lack of experience. Generating a pass rush will be difficult this year, as the front seven just simply doesn't have enough technique to rush the passer. The run defense should be mediocre, if not a little bit better. All I'm hoping to see out of the D in 2006 is growth. The players are young and need time to gel.
Total Defensive Grade: C


2006 Minnestoa Vikings Staff Evaluation


Levon Reese, Head Coach

• Notable: (29-25) last 3 years with Vikings
  
• Contract: $4,500,000/2 years
• Age: 67

Reese is a solid head coach who has led the Vikings to three straight playoff births. We'll see what he's able to do with a team that has marginal talent.


Carl Davidson, Offensive Coordinator

• Notable: 21.5 ppg over last 3 years
• Contract: $2,330,000/1 year
• Age: 41

Davidson will be judged by the development of the offensive players this year. Davidson's job is riding on the performance of QB Kenneth Marsh and the O-Line as a whole.


Kendall Gammon, Defensive Coordinator

• Notable: First year as a DC. Young and enthusiastic, should bring a spark to the defensive side of the ball.
• Contract: $1,510,000/2 years
• Age: 38

Developing the D-Line and LB core is key the Viking success in 2006, and Gammon looks like a promising coach.


Malcom Bendjya, Lead Scout

• Contract: $300,000/1 year
• Age: 50

Bendjya is a solid scout, but his inability to judge QB talent has left the Vikings in a very tough spot going into 2005. If there are better options available next year, Bendjya could be entering his last year with the Vikings.



2006 Minnesota Vikings Season Goals
Entering 2006, it is evident that this is a much different team than the one that reached the 2005 NFC Championship Game. As the youngest team in the league, it will be important that we gain game experience and grow collectively as a team. Specific goals will include.

• Win at least 6 game.
• Average at least 18 ppg.
• Allow under 20 ppg.
• Obtain a record of at least 3-3 in the NFC North.
• End the season with a positive turnover margin.

Though the bar is not set very high, it will be very important to reach every one of these goals.


2006 Minnesota Vikings General Team Information

Attendance: 63,200 (98.7%), 3rd in the league.
Franchise Value:

• $621,470,000, 19th in the league.
• Stadium (57) Good, 7th in the league.
• Roster (3) Poor, 32nd in the league.
• Fan Support (93) Excellent, 7th in the league.
• Economy (41) Average, 24th in the league.

2006 Season Tickets: Sold 62,700 of 64,000.
Cap Room: $64,140,000, 1st in the league.
Salary Cap: $123,800,000


2006 Minnesota Vikings Team News

As of now there isn't much team news, but this will soon be filled once the season begins.
Injuries: N/A
Misc: N/A
FA Signings: N/A
Trades: N/A
Rumor Mill:

• The Buffalo Bills have contacted the Minnesota Vikings about the availability of CB DeAngelo Hall. Buffalo officially offered a 2nd round pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. The offer was declined.
• The Minnesota Vikings have reportedly looked into acquiring St. Louis Rams backup QB Marc Bulger. Developments will be reported during next update.
  

[MizzouRah]

Wow, nicely done so far.

[Wonder Bear]

2006-2007 Minnesota Vikings: End of Preseason Update

1. Start of Preseason
2. End of Preseason (Current Update)
3. End of Week 4
4. End of Week 8
5. End of Week 12
6. End of Regular Season
7. Playoffs (if necessary)
8. Offseason Report
   

End of Preseason Update includes:
* Preseason Power Rankings
* Preseason Minnesota Vikings Summary
* 2006 Regular Season Schedule
* Team News, Notes & Stories


Preseason Power Rankings:
The experts have released the first Power Rankings of the 2006 season and, as expected, the Vikings have taken quite a fall since the end of 2005. Who are the contenders? Who are the pretenders? Just how far did the Vikes tumble? Those questions and a whole lot more answered below.



Apparently the national media is already doubting the 2006 Vikings. Who could blame them? The youngest team in the league. Three rookies starting on the O-Line. First year starting quarterback Kenneth Marsh. Maybe the Vikings should start planning for that No. 1 pick next April...


Preseason Summary:

• L 17-24 @ Oakland Raiders
• W 27-17 vs. New York Jets
• L 14-23 vs. New England Patriots
• L 17-19 @ Denver Broncos

Preseason proved to be a mixed bag of results in 2006. The team finished with a record of 1-3, staying competative in every game. Defensive play was strong while the offense might have more questions than answers.

A brightspot of the preseason for the team was second string wideout Nick Davis. Davis finished the preseason with 13 catches for 281 yards and 2 touchdowns. Davis is currently battling rookie Steven Becker for the third spot on the receiving core.

The quaterback situation in Minnesota has been the talk of the town this preseason. Starting quaterback Kenneth Marsh showed that he is ready for the challenges that the NFL brings. Marsh was able to lead the Vikings on two opening series touchdown drives, and was able to keep mistakes to a minimum. Preseason is a far cry from the regular season, however, and the true judgement of Marsh's progress will be seen when the Vikings travel to Green Bay opening week. Nine year vet Charlie Batch secured the backup spot behind Marsh. If Marsh falters, Batch is a smart, reliable option who has plenty of starting experience to lead the young squad.

2006 Vikings Regular Season Schedule:
During the year a lot will be added here. Additions such as pregame matchups, game previews, game summaries, standings and more will be made.

Team News, Notes & Stories:

QB Marsh shows flashes, still streaky
First year starter Kenneth Marsh needs to come up big for the Vikings in 2005. During his first three years in the league, Marsh has been able to sit back and watch what it takes to win. Now the pressure is on him. Scouts around the league have agreed that Marsh is among the weakest starters in the NFL, and many fans in Minnesota are voicing their concern. When asked what fans could expect in 2006, Marsh assured fans that they'd be getting their money's worth. "Me? The fans don't need to worry about me. The only people that need to be worrying about me are the Packers on September 10th." For a first year starter who only managed to complete 50% of his passes in preseason he's quite confident. Marsh would be better served to let his play do the talking in 2006.
Preseason Numbers:
62/124, 713 yards, 4 TDs, 3 Ints, 72.3 QB rating.


Trade talks fall through. Rams, Vikings go their separate ways.
Rumors swirled throughout the preseason about the possibility of the Minnesota Vikings acquiring Rams backup quaterback Marc Bulger. Bulger, highly regarded by general managers around the league, will be staying in St. Louis. Talks between the two teams collapsed when the Rams refused to move Bulger without receiving two number one
picks in return. Vikings GM Craven LeWins declined to comment.

Injuries: Going into the season injury free.
Misc:

• Starting RB LaBrandon Toefield reportedly became disgruntled by the possibility of splitting carries with running back Michael Bennett. Toefield quickly regained composure and apologized to coaches and teammates. Apparently Toefield forgot he was LaBrandon Toefield.

FA Signings: No recent FA signings have been made.
Trades: N/A
Rumor Mill: N/A

[Emiliano]

Nice! And welcome to FOFC.

[MizzouRah]

Keep it up Wonder Bear! I'll be checking in on your Vikes.

[Wonder Bear]

2006-2007 Minnesota Vikings

1. Start of Preseason
2. End of Preseason
3. End of Week 4 (Current Update)
   
4. End of Week 8
5. End of Week 12
6. End of Regular Season
7. Playoffs (if necessary)
8. Offseason Report

End of Week 4 Update includes:
These will be broken up into multiple posts. Expectations will be posted at the end of this initial post. Each week will have it's own reports and will be broken up into different posts (i.e. week 1 will have it's own post, etc.). League leaders, power rankings and standings will all be included in the same post. GM commentary will conclude this update.

• GM Expectations for Weeks 1-4
• Pre/Postgame Reports & News
• League Leaders
• Updated NFL Power Rankings
• Updated NFL Standings
• GM Commentary/plan for weeks 5-8

NOTE: There are a number of things I have to get done for this update, so things will be posted as they are completed over a matter of days.

Opponents (Weeks 1-4):

1. at Green Bay Packers (+8)
2. at NY Jets (+11)
3. at Washington Redskins (+5)
4. Bye

GM Expectations Weeks 1-4 Overview:
First, let me explain what I will be doing in terms of gameplanning. As the AI chose what players to bring in for this year, I will be letting the AI control all gameplanning (minus depth charts) for the first four weeks. This will give me a good idea of where the team is at and what is/isn't working.

If I said I was optimistic about the 2006 season, I'd be lying. While my team does have some very young and talented players, (Bryant McKinnie, DeAngelo Hall, Braylon Edwards, Kevin Williams) it is a group that is average at best, and should struggle a bit on both sides of the ball. Starting the season with three straight road games shouldn't help matters much, either.

On defense, our front seven is the worst in the league. Aside from Kevin Williams, who is [64/70], we don't have anyone rated above 44. This should lead to problems in the air and on the ground. Currently, no one can rush the passer consistently (aside from Williams), which will put a ton of pressure on the secondary. While the secondary is a good group, weak link Brian Williams [40/40] will struggle if forced to drop back in
coverage for a prolonged amount of time.

Offensively is where things could get ugly. I'm giving Kenneth Marsh [14/45] in hopes that his high volatility will lead to some kind of Kurt Warner-like breakthrough. While this is unlikely, it's worth a shot. If things get too ugly too quick, Batch will most defanitely see some playing time depending on if I think the team has any chance at all to be competative. Neither Batch nor Marsh seem to fit into my plans for the future of this
organization and I'll most likely be targeting a QB in 2007, but I'm getting ahead of myself. LaBrandon Toefield seems like a solid option in the backfield if he gets the touches he needs. I'm going to try to get him at least 15-20 carries a game this season to see where he's at. I expect nothing less than high quality play from both Burleson and Edwards, each is very talented and should open up defenses. The O-Line is below
average at best, but it's the youngest part of the team and needs time to grow.

Over these next four weeks I'd expect to come out (1-2) or if we catch some breaks maybe even (2-1), but I understand the very real possibility of starting off (0-3). If we do start slow, the bye during Week 4 should be very helpful.

[Wonder Bear]

NFL Week 1 (Note: Formatting changed.)

• Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers

How they match up:


Key Player Matchup:

-MN DB Brian Williams vs. GB WR Javon Walker-


-Minnesota Defense vs. Green Bay Offense-

• The Vikings have one of the stronger secondaries in the league, and will be a good test for the high flying passing attack of Green Bay. Two things need to happen in order for Minnesota to shut down the Packer air assault. The first thing is the front seven needs put pressure on Favre. If that happens, he will be forced into mistakes, leading to turnovers. Secondly, defensive back Brian Williams has to be able to contain Javon Walker. Williams is the weak link of the secondary and the Packers will look to exploit him.
  

• The problem the Vikings will have when going against the Packers on Sunday is the fact that their front seven isn't all that strong. They're weak against the run and don't have any stand out pass rushers. If the front seven is unable to step up on Sunday, this could very well lead to two things happening. A big day from Brett Favre. If Favre is able to stand in the pocket and throw, he will pick the Minnesota defense apart up and down the field. The Vikings will also have their hands full trying to stop Ahman Green. Green is a powerful runner who hits the hole with speed and percision, and will undoubtly cause the Vikings trouble.

Edge:

-Minnesota Offense vs. Green Bay Defense-

• Green Bay's front seven is one of the league's best when it comes to rushing the passer. Ends KGB and Aaron Kampman will be after Kenneth Marsh all day long. Along with Kampan and Biamila, the entire linebacking core, which consists of Hannibal Naives, Nick Barnett and Dwayne Rudd, all know how to get after the quaterback. The Packer front seven isn't the strongest against the run, but this won't matter much. The Vikings are starting three rookies on the offensive line and this unit is certainly going to be shaky for a few games.

• Mike McKenzie and the rest of the Packer secondary can't wait to go up against Kenneth Marsh and the Minnesota Vikings. "We'll see how tough he is when we step on the field Sunday," McKenzie said, in response to remarks made by Marsh earlier in the week. Marsh will need to be careful with the ball and try not to force anything. The Vikings aren't asking him to be a world beater.

Edge:

Marsh struggles, Ahman Green and Packers roll over Vikings

Sept. 10, 2006
GREEN BAY - It didn't take long for veterans Brett Favre and Ahman Green to show they can still perform at a Pro Bowl level.

Playing with the speed and tenacity of players in their prime, the two didn't wait long to start carving up the Vikings defense. Favre and Green were involved in all four Packer touchdowns as they opened the season with a 34-10 win.

"It's always good to get that first win under your belt," said Favre, who seriously considered retirement in the 2005 offseason. "I'm still able to play this game at a high level, and it's great to know that we've got a great group of guys that want to improve week after week."

"We had a mind-set just to come out here and show the NFL what we're all about and we did," RB Ahman Green said. "I couldn't think of a better start to a season than this," added Green. Green finished the day with 98 yards and 2 touchdowns on 27 carries.

The Packer offense wasn't the only success on the day. The Packers sacked Vikings quarterback Kenneth Marsh four times, forced two turnovers and held the Vikings to just 69 yards rushing.

"We fell behind," Marsh said, "and then we fell apart. There's not much more to be said."

Marsh was 19/29 for 223 yards and also threw two interceptions on the day. It was a very disappointing start for the fourth year man out of USC. Marsh made a few headlines during the week for his tough talk leading up to the showdown against Green Bay. Marsh was never able to find his groove after throwing a first series interception to defensive back Mike McKenzie. McKenzie finished the day with two interceptions.

"We're not going to let one game ruin our season," said head coach Levon Reese. "We'll be back. We may have to change some things here or there, but we'll be back."

Reese better come up with something for the sake of his team. Things aren't going to get any easier, as next week Minnesota travels to New York to take on the Jets.


Most Valueable Viking:
In an otherwise dull day on the offensive side of the ball, Braylon Edwards was able to clock in a very respectable day at the office. Edwards, who is entering his second season in the NFL, looks to improve on a solid rookie campaign. Edwards worked hard to get open for Marsh, who found him nine times for 101 yards. "We've come to expect that kind of play out of Braylon," coach Reese commented, "I don't see any reason why he's not going to be great in this league. He's dedicated, he's smart and he's physically gifted." If only the rest of the Viking offense had such upside.

Rest of the NFL:
Carolina at Atlanta: 16-3 Atlanta
Cincinnati at Baltimore: 40-10 Baltimore
Cleveland at Pittsburgh: 30-3 Cleveland
Detroit at Chicago: 38-16 Detroit
Jacksonville at Indianapolis: 38-7 Indianapolis
Kansas City at Denver: 20-14 Denver
Miami at Buffalo: 24-16 Buffalo
NY Giants at Dallas: 20-6 Dallas
NY Jets at New England: 27-10 NY Jets
Philadelphia at Washington: 20-7 Philadelphia
San Diego at Oakland: 21-17 San Diego
Seattle at Arizona: 28-23 Seattle
St. Louis at San Francisco: 19-6 San Francisco
Tampa Bay at New Orleans: 31-7 New Orleans
Tennessee at Houston: 27-10 Houston