#3 Posted: 12/31/2011 8:13:32 PM Toby Gerhart has been really solid, showing improvement every week. He's nowhere near the RB that A.P. is, but he's a grinder who is surpisingly good on the screen passes. It sounds like Ponder is starting, but I like the Vikes better with Joe Webb at QB. One thing to note--Vikings TE/FB Jim Kleinsasser is playing in his last game. Though he's a relative unknown outside of the Midwest, the guy is one of the classiest players to ever play in the NFL. A tough, unselfish, punishing blocker who's been a favorite of all Vikings players and coaches over the last decade. The Vikings players and coaches will be UP for this game as they want to send Kleinsasser off on a good note. Coach Frasier has already said they'll give Jimmy the ball if they get it down to the one yard line. A fired-up Vikes team is going to pound the ball on the ground (especially if Urlacher is out) and get off to an early lead. Jared Allen is 1/2 a sack ahead of Jason Babin for the season and still has an outside shot at the Strahan/Favre record. Look for him to get to Bears QBs early and often. If Ponder struggles, they'll give him the hook and go with Webb. Don't understimate the Kleinsasser factor--the Vikings want this game.
Vikes roll and win by 10+
Yes, I live in Minnesota, but I almost always bet Against the Vikes. |