Gee Whiz - I bleed purple myself, but the above apocryphal news story almost feels true considering the comments of many on this board and other Vikings internet resources.
I am glad that people have posted about negatives on Monday's game. They were certainly there. But there were also positive, so likewise I am glad that these have been discussed.
Only one game.
Nothing that is beyond the realm of improvement.
The Coach just might see how the second half, like last years final game with Denver, really seems to be a more effective approach for this talented group of vets and youngsters. Mix the passing game to more than just Berrian, even when BB is going long sometimes, then fire up our horses playing to the unique strengths of our running backs, etc. I think there is a good chance that TJack will get back the rhythm that he was beginning to establish during pre-season. Yes, there will be challenges at LT while McKinney is out (and even then he will have his troubles now and again, but I believe he will be improved after facing JA in practice). Could be worse, we just might lose a bunch of games of these first five just on the basis of the teams we play alone. Would be worse if we suffered due to McKinney's loss later on, against easier competition.
DE's don't get sacks every down, and Green Bay was making adjustments for the threat of JA (didn't it seem like Rodgers pocket rolled away from him - creating more space?). Just like teams adjusting to AD last year, we will have to make countering adjustents.
The good news is that it seemed like the coaches were making some adjustments (granted, perhaps not enough), but at least sooner in one game, rather than weeks later (citing the example of opening up the offense at the end of the last game last year - should have tried that much earlier).
Just breath. And don't jump. Put down the razor blades. it will be okay. Obviously things could go either way - but there is plenty of reason for optimism.
And just so you know. I am a Vikings fan AND a Mental Health Professional AND I read Ski Magazine (the latter being an inside family joke). So I know about these things.
Now just don't get me started on Special Teams.
After all, my office is on the second floor.......
