Minnesota Vikings
2007 Record: 8-8
ATS: 7-7-2
Super Bowl Odds: 22-1
Minnesota surprised a lot of experts last year by making a strong push for a playoff spot, ending the year with an 8-8 record. RB Adrian Peterson had a stellar rookie year and established the Vikings’ running game as one of the best in the leagues, with almost 6 yards per carry on average. Minnesota’s run defense also stood out, allowing only 7 rushing TDs all year. The reason they did not get into the playoffs with those numbers was that the Vikings were very one-dimensional on both sides of the ball.
QB Tarvaris Jackson posted an 8-4 record as a starter, but finished 28th among NFL QBs with a 70.8 passer rating, tossing 12 interceptions. Overall the team allowed with 264 yards per game. O/U bettors pretty much broke even as the Vikings were 8-7-1, but they did play over 6 times at home. Looking ahead to 2008, the Vikings made a big move and a few little ones to fill their holes.
The Vikings traded for DE Pro-bowler Jared Allen then signed former Bear Bernard Berrian at wideout & drafted S Tyrell Johnson in the 2nd round. Minnesota also signed CB Benny Sapp and safety Madieu William during the offseason. A profitable 2008 campaign for the Vikings hinges on Jackson’s development as a QB. Many consider him the weak link in what looks to be an otherwise strong Vikings team. They have the running attack to force defenses to play run first, & that should give Jackson plenty of play-action opportunities.
The Vikings should run over the weaker teams on their schedule, but teams like the Colts, Saints 7 Giants will take full advantage of their weak secondary. If the Packers struggle, expect Minnesota to rise to the top of the North.
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