Image courtesy of NFL

What to watch for: 

Christian Ponder’s performance: This is easily the toughest defense Christian will see all season. The secondary is fantastic with the likes of safety Dashon Goldson and cornerback Carlos Rogers, not to mention the linebacking corps of Navarro Bowman and Patrick Willis – one of the most ferocious linebacking core in the NFL. Factor in DE/DT Justin Smith as a dominant run-stopper, and up-incoming, pass-rushing star OLB Aldon Smith. This group is dominant and fantastically coached. If Ponder can throw for 250+ in this game (Rodgers threw for 303, Stafford threw for 230) it would be a great testament in his improvement. But Ponder is yet to show he can play at an elite level like Rodgers and Stafford. While the optimist in me hopes that Ponder can throw a 52-yard pass to Stephen Burton again, that was preseason and in reality doesn’t mean anything. The biggest worry is protecting Ponder with both pass protection and while on the run. A shot from linebackers Patrick Willis or Aldon Smith could take Ponder out of the game due to injury.

Vikings defense: A week after playing the Vikings, Blaine Gabbert reverted to playing like Blaine Gabbert. Andrew Luck, who struggled against the Bears defense, got his first home win against a Vikings defense that crippled in the final minutes for the second straight week. While it’s deceiving as the Vikings’ defense is ranked 10th overall at the moment and have only given up 26 first half points compared to 18 second half points, they have given up game leading/winning drives in the final minute of both games. While the secondary is getting more pass deflections, the lack of a pass rush is giving the quarterback time to find wide receivers in the zone. Whether or not we’ll see more man-coverage is yet to be seen, but it’s clear that the play-calling by defensive coordinator Alan Williams calls for more aggressive pass defense. What is to be seen is if the talent is there to play adequate enough man-coverage. With only 2 interceptions in the last 13 games it’ll be a miracle if we see an interception by this secondary. The Vikings have struggled against mobile quarterbacks, and Alex Smith is no exception. One of the reasons Alex Smith was picked in the draft over Aaron Rodgers (however wrong that was) was because of Smith’s 40-yard dash.

Vernon Davis: While tight ends haven’t gotten huge yardage on the Vikings they have certainly found the end-zone. Marcedes Lewis scored on the Vikings in week 1 and Dwayne Allen scored in week 2. Vernon Davis has 3 touchdowns already and they weren’t just 1-2 yard touchdowns. He is a deep threat. At 6’3″ he’s not a tall tight end like Jimmy Graham and Rob Gronkowski of the league, but his speed and strength separate him as a legitimate receiving threat. Jim Harbaugh has even said that Vernon is the fastest player on the team – He did run a 4.38 40-yard dash at the combine. This guy runs as fast as wide receivers and catches just as good as any receiver. Regardless, guys like SS Harrison Smith are gonna have to be all over him if the Vikings have any hope of shutting down Davis, especially with Erin Henderson being ruled out against the 49ers.

Randy Moss’s Return to the Metrodome: Two years ago when I went to Randy Moss’s first game back with the Vikings at the Metrodome (not including the away game against the Jets obviously) I remember how awesome it felt to finally have the guy back. He’s been my hero in terms of athletic skill and accomplishment ever since he was drafted. With that said a lot of people have had problems with his personality, having it all culminate at the end of the season with a Titans team that was starting a struggling and unfit 3rd-string quarterback. Moss is 50/50 at this point with Minnesota fans. There will be a lot of cheers and maybe just as many boos, but no doubt he was one of the greatest Vikings to ever live. Randy Moss said that he can’t wait to come back because he just loves the environment so much – Love him or hate him – He’ll be out there and he’ll try impress Vikings fans at least one more time. At this stage in his career, he’s not going to put up light’s out numbers. It’s clear that Crabtree and Manningham will be the main wide receivers on Sunday.

Will it be a blowout?

With the defense that the Niners have, along with a solid running game and game-managing quarterback, it’s very much possible that we could see the defense destroy the Vikings and have a total blowout. The Niners passing game, like the Vikings passing game, isn’t exactly vertical. While they have had bigger plays than the Vikings this year, the 49ers have been really smart with the football relying heavily on Frank Gore and the running game. Alex Smith has gone over 200 passes without an interception. Although that sounds good, Smith can be overly cautious with the ball, and if kept contained is willing to just fall over and take the sack.

Predictions: 49ers win 27-14.

Alex Smith: 25/33 261 yds, 2 TDs, 3 carries for 18 yds. 0 INT, 0 fumbles, 1 sack, longest comp: 32 yds

Mario Manningham: 6 rec for 72 yds, 1TD, 0 fumbles

Frank Gore: 18 carries for 91 yds, 1 TD, 2 rec for 17 yds, 0 fumbles

Christian Ponder: 23/33 249 yds, 2 TD, 2 carries for 7 yds, 1 INT,  1 fumble, 3 sacks, longest comp: 27 yds

Percy Harvin: 11 targets 8 rec for 81 yds, 1TD, 2 carries for 9 yds 0 fumbles

Adrian Peterson: 11 carries for 33 yds, 0TD, 0 rec, 0 fumbles

Why?

The Vikings are still young and will probably come together near the end of the season. The Niner’s defense shut down two of last year’s elite offenses (Packers and Lions). It’s hard to believe Ponder will strike gold or Peterson will run wild against such a stout defense. After losing this game I do see the Vikings potentially playing well against the Lions and could get a division win against either the Lions or the Bears. It is a long season and the Vikings are one of the youngest teams in the NFL. I still think the team can finish 6-10 (being optimistic). But it’s going to have to improve marginally after each game, which is certainly possible.

Quick Hits

• Vikings receiver Michael Jenkins will look to extend his streak of 54 consecutive games with a reception in which he’s played in.
• From 2003-12, Vikings DT Kevin Williams trails only 49ers DT Justin Smith in sacks by defensive tackles. Smith has tallied 57.5 sacks while Williams has recorded 54.5.
• The Vikings are seeking their 5th straight home win against the 49ers.
• The last time the Vikings and 49ers met was in Week 3 of 2009. Vikings QB Brett Favre connected with WR Greg Lewis for a 32-yard touchdown in the final seconds to give the Vikings a 27-24 win at Mall of America Field.

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Vikings Notes: 

• Kamar Jordan broke his hand and his chances of making the team are  basically dead. The Vikings brought back wide receiver AJ Love after Greg Childs went down with two Patella Tendon injuries.
• Vikings CB Nick Taylor and Vikings WR Greg Childs are the only players on IR so far.
• Jordan Todman is not looking likely to play against the 49ers in this week’s pre-season game. He will be evaluated on Thursday.
• Percy Harvin caught a nice 25-yard touchdown catch in practice yesterday yet had to leave early due to cramps.
• Lex Hilliard has been getting a lot of the second team running back touches and will most likely be Toby’s back-up as of this week. He was praised by coach Frazier for his special teams ability – something the Vikings are looking for in their 3rd string back.
• George Stewart (Wide Receivers coach) recently spoke about WR Emmanuel “Manny” Arceneaux. He stated that Manny was the most improved wide-receiver he’s ever worked with. In the initial depth chart, Arceneaux is 4th in the split-end race. He is behind Jerome Simpson, Michael Jenkins, and Devin Aromashodu. The depth chart is early, and will be more finalized as the season opener draws closer. Look for Arceneaux to move up the depth chart if he is able to prove himself during the pre-season.
• Don’t expect Vikings to add any receivers until cuts start happening.
• Former Vikings player and current Seahawk Sidney Rice is expected to miss the season opener – He’s had 3 concussions in the last year and had surgery on both of his shoulders.
• Legendary Vikings defensive end Chris Doleman was inducted into the Hall of Fame on Saturday. Doleman had the sack record (21) for years until Favre was “sacked” by Michael Strahan. Last year Jared Allen came up short to beating Strahan’s record and will look to break the record this season. Doleman and John Randle gave the Vikings a ferocious defensive line for many years.

Wolves Notes: 

• Robbie Hummel isn’t expected to play for the Wolves this year. He’s finalizing a contract to play in Spain for the Obradoiro club.

We at Minnesota SNN would like to offer our condolences to Tim Allen’s family and friends. The Canis Hoopus writer passed away last night. We all respect Tim and with heavy hearts bid him farewell. His humor in his reporting and love for the Wolves was unseen in this day and age when most beat writers cannot be fans of the teams they write for. Tim kept it fair and was humorous. Rest in peace.

Twins Notes: 

• Nishioka has not looked good this year – In the series against the Indians, Nishioka finished 0-12 with multiple errors, including losing a ball in the sun. It will be a shock if he isn’t on the bench or demoted soon.
• The Twins took 3 out of 4 against Boston and 2 out of 3 against the Indians. The Twins are 6-4 in their last 10.
• Joe Mauer and Ben Revere are right behind Mike Trout for the American League batting title.

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Vikings Wide Receiver Greg Childs, likley out for season.

As it stands as of right now. Vikings wide-receiver Greg Childs is out for the season and potentially for the rest of his career. Early reports are saying that Greg Childs has suffered two torn patellar tendons. If that is the case, it takes over a year for one. But to do both? Difficult.

In April, Childs was drafted in the 4th round after Arkansas teammate Jarius Wright. Childs was the initial favorite to start at the split-end in place of free-agent signing Jerome Simpson who played for the Bengals for 4 seasons. Simpson is suspended for 3 games this season after being charged with possession of marijuana.

Here are the other options at this point:

• Stephen Burton: Nothing exciting speed wise, average hands, but a very tough/grinder.  Vikings wide-receivers coach George Stewart said that he would compare Burton to a younger Terrell Owens but without the mental issues. He was projected to be in the running for the 3rd-5th wide-receiver and at this point, it all depends on his performances in practice and during the pre-season.
• Emmanuel Arceneaux: Dominant in the CFL, spent last season on the practice squad, just saw his chances of making the team skyrocket. He’s had to adjust to the speed and style of the NFL, but hopes are high that he could contribute this year if he continues to do well in camp. Look for him to compete for a split-end roster spot.
• Michael Jenkins: reliable hands. Always been a solid possession receiver and was the #1 target up to his knee injury which ended his season. A lot of speculation that he may not make the team. Throw that out the window, he’s staying.
• Devin Aromashodu: Has experience in the offense and some speed. Really see him on the free agent wire at the end of camp.
• Kamar Jordan:  Injured at the moment.  Good hands in college. He’ll be lucky if he makes it to practice squad.
• Kerry Taylor: Speed guy. He is by no means a bad option and has gotten enough snaps in camp. He’ll be in the mix for the 4th-5th receiver.
• Jarius Wright:  Think Steve Smith. Could get moved outside when he’s not backing up Percy at the slot. He’s got the speed to do it.

All in all, yesterday was a sad day. Vikings fans may have lost an important part of this teams rebuilding and if they don’t do well this year as expected, you can say ”Welcome to Minnesota Robert Woods and/or Keenan Allen and/or Justin Hunter.”

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After an 8-year drought from the playoffs, the Minnesota Timberwolves are finally on the cusp of breaking the current longest and most notorious streak in the NBA.  Until the season starts and we can see the progress that the Wolves front office has made, however, here is a brief recap of an offseason sure to excite the fans.

• Kahn confirmed that he is done making off-season moves until after the Olympics. He does have a potential trade lined up that he called “significant”, but this will most likely be nothing more than a glorified sixth man.
• Glen Taylor is selling the Timberwolves with a clause that will ensure that the team and the Lynx cannot be moved. Taylor hasn’t yet revealed a name but he did state that this new minority partner is not a Minnesotan and that this individual will gradually take over more of the team with each coming season.
• The two newest Timberwolves, Andrei Kirilenko and Alexey Shved dominated the Great Britain in the opening round of the Olympics and helped lead a more balanced and dominant attack on China earlier this morning. Kirilenko had 16 points, 9 rebounds, 4 steals, 1 block against China while Shved had  14 points, 6 assists, 1 rebound, and 2 steals. Shved finished his time on the court with a beautiful reverse 2-handed slam and while Kahn has stated Shved will play the 2, don’t be surprised if that changes. He’s looked really smooth running the offense at the 1 and could play in Rubio’s spot until he’s healthy.
• Sorry to disappoint but Brandon Rush is on the verge of re-signing with the Golden State Warriors. The SG/SF, while not as highly coveted as a player like Andre Iguodala, was scouted very carefully by the Wolves.
• Willie Green also agreed to a sign-and-trade to the Clippers. Willie Green was linked to a possible move to Minnesota, but due to the Wes Johnson trade and the Andrei Kirilenko signing, that move became something of an afterthought.

That’s it for now. Vikings should be dominating the feed the next few weeks as training camp is currently going on and pre-season will start soon. Stay posted.

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According to Darren Wolfson, the Wolves have stopped their pursuit of Willie Green a 3-point specialist who last played for Atlanta. Willie Green’s camp was informed that the Wolves front office has bigger and better plans, which he does not fit into. Green, a 44% 3-point shooter last year is by no means a terrible outside shooter. After passing on Green, here are a few probable targets.

Brandon Rush (SG/SF, RFA): A pretty solid scorer who shot 45% from three point range last season ,making nearly 100 of his attempts. He was on pace for 803 points in an 82 game season, and frankly the guy can score. Rush averaged approximately .9 steals per game last season and he is an improving player. Rush ought to be on the top of Minnesota’s list, and fans would certainly be intrigued by his offensive minded game.  His PER 36 is solid at 13.3 ppg and Rush is athletic enough to catch the highlight reel Alley’s. Although Kahn did speak with his agent, it is not clear as to what was discussed or if any contract terms were brought up.

Dominic McGuire (SF/PF, UFA): A defensive-minded guy who has had mixed results, McGuire is a mediocre scorer who plays nothing more than your typical NBA “defense”. Best current player comparison is to a poor man’s Kenyon Martin; he can’t score or defend at K-Mart’s level, but any upgrade on the defensive side of the ball is an immediate improvement for the Wolves. The team was 10th on offense last year but fell to 25th in overall defense by the end of the season, a drastic fall from 15th at the All-Star Break. Would be a good addition, but nothing to write home about.

Andre Iguodala (SG/SF, currently playing for the 76ers): Ever since a report came out about the Wolves possibly being offered Andre and his terrible contract for Martell Webster and pieces, Wolves fans have been wondering why the trigger wasn’t pulled. Iggy’s contract is crazy-expensive and the Sixers do have some buyer’s remorse for that (similar to the remorse Denver had to signing Nenê. It is worth it to mention that if Kahn could have done it for Martell, he probably would have. But that contract is just obscenely large ($15 million per year). With the Wolves officially signing Alexey Shved and Greg Steimsma, completing the trade for Dante Cunningham, and set to announce the deal with Brandon Roy on Tuesday, there doesn’t seem to be any room for Iguodala’s contract. Iggy is playing with Love at the Olympics right now and I’m sure that if their friendship is any indication and Iggy opts out of his contract next season (which is possible), Love could rally Iggy to join him in Minnesota. But until then, the only real way to acquire Iguodala is by giving up what many would deem too many assets and contracts.

Andrei Kirilenko (SF/PF, currently playing for CSKA Moscow):  A very reliable defender and having his best season yet in Moscow, Kirilenko could be lured here by both the money and recent acquisition of Alexey Shved. I’m sure Mr. Gets a Free Pass from his Hot Russian Pop Star Wife could be had for a decent price.

Ronnie Brewer (SG/SF, UFA): Was supposed to be Minnesota-bound as of a week ago but not a peep has been said since. He shot at around 43% (.427 rounded up) with his true shooting percentage right around 47% (.465 rounded up). His offensive performances are steadily declining, but he can rely on his defense and athleticism to compensate. He’s a guy who could very well benefit from a guy like Ricky Rubio or Alexey Shved passing him the ball and would certainly be an upgrade on the defensive side of the ball.

Trade Assets the Wolves Have:

• Jose Juan Barea: JJ has been a disappointment but there is hope for him here if he stays healthy. If JJ would stop and think about some of his passes or driving to the lane with a guy clearly in front of him, he is one of the better players on the team.
• Luke Ridnour: He’s been there through the worst and people want to root for Luke. He’s got an underdog mentality and took great strides this year. He’s consistent and likeable and a lot of people, despite not being as efficient as JJ, say he is a good locker room guy and keeps people motivated.
• Derrick Williams: Derrick Williams has been in virtually every trade discussion the Wolves have been in since February of this year. And after a rough Summer League against the NBA’s scraps he could be losing value and losing it quickly. He’s not squaring up on his shot properly, he’s looking confused on the court, and is turning the ball over at a disturbing rate. Look for the Wolves to trade him before his trade value is completely diminished.
• Wes Johnson: Despite coming off a mediocre season, he seems to be more liked by Adelman because for one, he was one of the better defenders on the team. If Adelman and Kahn actually managed to land Courtney Lee, Wes would have been gone. But in Summer League he looked good and hopefully his performances can boost his trade value.
• Memphis 2013 first-round pick (top-14 protected) via Houston Shane Battier trade, Jazz 2013 first-round pick (top-12 protected), and whatever pick they get this year depending on their performance.
• Malcolm Lee: Good defender, iffy on a few other things. Could be great with the right coaching. Will be stuck behind Rubio, Shved, Ridnour, Barea, etc…so don’t expect much besides a warm bench.

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Center Greg Steimsma as seen here for the Boston Celtics.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have signed restricted free-agent Greg Steimsma to an offer sheet which Boston has said they will not match.  While some have reported 1-year, $3 million, you cannot sign a restricted free-agent to a 1-year contract. It is possible however that this contract is $3 million per year OR that it could be a 1 year deal if the Celtics decide to withdraw their sheet.

This signing comes after the failed attempt at getting restricted free-agent small forward Nicolas Batum, whose contract was matched by the Portland Trail Blazers in what was an aggressive move by Kahn to drive up Batum’s price. Steimsma provides a solid defender and will provide a good 10-15 minutes off the bench behind Nikola Pekovic.

There is a clear culture change approaching Minnesota for a defensive-minded team as the Wolves have also been linked to small-forward Dominic McGuire and shooting guard Ronnie Brewer.

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All-Star Power Forward Kevin Love playing in an Olympic exhibition game.

When it was announced that All-Star power forward Kevin Love had been selected for the 2012 USA Olympic Basketball team, there was a pronounced excitement among Timberwolves fans. It was the first time that a Timberwolf had been on the team in over a decade (2000 to be precise). Yet Love’s minutes, or more appropriately the lack there of, have been disturbing to some Wolves fans and has led to speculation on why Coach K would not play a big line-up on a team that is short in bigs.

Many have speculated that Coach K doesn’t like Love’s defense and with reports saying that Love hasn’t been shooting well in practice, there certainly isn’t a ton of incentive to play him. With comments by Coach K dismissing Love’s importance to the team, it is blatantly obvious that Coach K just doesn’t care for Love.

With recent comments that imply Love will go elsewhere if free agent moves aren’t completed to his satisfaction, many see the Love situation as a potential Kevin Garnett to Boston 2.0. There is a lot of fear in the fan base that after 2014-2015 season comes to an end, that Love may seek un-restricted free agency to play in places such as Oklahoma City or Los Angeles (specifically, the Lakers). While this is exhibition time for Team USA, the recent comments by Coach K suggest that either Love isn’t as good as people think or that he is definitely mistaken for not giving him more minutes. All of this is pure speculation at this point however; we will just have to wait and see how the Olympics and the matchups play out.

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Vikings added depth to a secondary that has developed a reputation for playing poorly the past 2 years by signing 2 players coming off mediocre seasons despite playing decently in years past. The signings culminated in Zackary Bowman, former Bear, and Chris Carr, former Raven. It’s time to take a look at the players and see if they benefit the Vikings.

Chris Carr: Carr has been a starter and a relatively successful one. In his time with the Ravens he
developed a reputation as a dangerous returner and due to injuries in 2011 did not record much for
stats (19 tackles, 1 sack). Where in his contract year the year before he recorded 61 tackles and had 2
interceptions. This is by and large an upgrade if he can play anything like he did in 2010. Carr has a chip
on his shoulder and could be a surprise to leap frog over Winfield in the CB depth chart. Worst case
scenario he’s the 3rd-4th corner on the team. But is a guarantee to play better than the likes of retired
cornerback Asher Allen or waste of space Benny Sapp.

Zackary Bowman: Was the left cornerback in the Bear’s Cover-2 over Charles Tillman (the left in the
Cover-2 means that the corner is the superior cornerback). And one of the best qualities Bowman has
that gives him a good chance of making the team is his length. At 6” 1’ he can cover taller receivers
than shorter corners in terms of match ups for jump balls. And at his best in 2009 he recorded 6
interceptions. And was the cause of a lot groans for Vikings fans in 2008 where he had a game-winning
fumble returned for a TD that helped the Bears win the game. At his best he is by and large a better
corner than Carr. But his drop off is staggering and may end up to be the teams’ 4 th cornerback unless he
really flashes in training camp.

Overall: The signings do provide better depth than what the Vikings had last year. Both Carr and
Bowman can start easily on bad teams and Bowman especially has the physical tools to be a great cover
corner as evidenced in his 2009 campaign. However his drop off in performance was so drastic it’s
almost a risk. But if he impresses in camp he could be in the rotation at corner and be a contributor to
the Vikings. Carr’s speed could help him in the defense to quickly tackle or catch up to receivers. Both
are better than the likes of Cedric Griffin and if the injury bug bites the Vikings, they will have a lot more
help this time.

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