Vikings Lose to Bears

In another game dominated by defense and low scores, the Vikings fall to the Bears by a field goal.

...

For the third game in a row, the game was decided by a field goal. This time, the Vikings were short. Also, again the Vikings failed to score an offensive touchdown; the touchdown scored was on an interception. Sure, last week the field goal kicker threw a touchdown pass in a trick play that worked, and I suppose technically that's an offensive touchdown, but I count that as a "special team" instead.

The game was a disappointing show for the offense. Defensively we're finally ready, but it simply seems to be the case that the focus has shifted from offense to defense. Brad Johnson is a fine quarterback. He was a fine quarterback when he QBd for the Vikings before. He went on to greater things, including a Superbowl victory with Tampa Bay. We've got some fine receivers and tight ends, and an exciting new running back, but it doesn't feel like we've got a great offensive package. The line still gives away a few too many penalties, often undoing the bits of work that occur when the offense clicks.

It's going to be a long year if we're going to rely on the defense for points (still think they should get 'em), or if we've got to score 'em all by field goal. As long as the defense can hold the opposing teams this should work, but it makes for a long game, and a longer season.

So the Bears take the lead. The division is broken out by one-game between each team.

So the "worst" outcome that I'd previously mentioned has occurred. Curiously, because Chicago has only played division opponents, they are 3-0 in the division, while the other teams are way behind. This, at least, will even out as the season progresses.

The Vikings next visit the Bills (1-2) while Chicago goes to the Seahawks (3-0). Optimistically, the Vikings should win and the Bears could loose, returning the teams to a 3-1 tie for first.

In the bottom half of the division, the Packers are likely to lose at the Eagles (2-1), and the Lions are probably due for a win, but we hope they'll continue their streak when they visit the Rams (2-1).

If this happens, the division will shape up like this.

If the worst happens again, everyone else wins, and the Vikings alone lose, it'll be a race for second place.

Hold together Vikings.