It seems like all the media attention here in Austin, TX has been focused on the Cowboys meltdown on Sunday.

Or I should say, a 44-6 beatdown of a Cowboys team that was “supposed” to be Super Bowl or bust this season.

Bust is the key word.

But I happened to catch a phone interview with Visanthe Shaincoe over the radio (1300AM The Zone – might’ve been Jim Rome Show, I wasn’t paying terribly close attention) here in Austin tonight, and Shiancoe dispelled some of the rumors surrounding the Vikes win over the Giants.

Something to the effect of: “The Giants were playing to win, even in the 4th. We beat them when we had to. We’re a team that’s finally starting to gel.”

He then went on to say something about teammates pranking him about the whole FOX news camera debacle – and that he was actually offered a role in a porno BECAUSE of it, although it was likely a publicity stunt by the production company (Bubble Butts 2 – something or other). And teammates leaving sausages in his locker, rulers out on his table during team meetings, etc.

Some old fashioned ribbing – the kind that’s harmless and good for morale.

I guess my final comment on Shiancoe is that I’ve been a fan of his since the beginning of the season, mostly after I heard about his dedication in improving his ball handling/catch abilities after practice. You know, catching an additional 100-200 balls, staying late, working with his coaches, and showing the kind of commitment that each player on the Vikings squad should be showing each and ever day.

So yeah, I expect Shiancoe to be a huge contributor in the future, and admire his character and drive greatly.

And FINALLY, let me lead the charge for this week.

GO VIKES! SKOL VIKES!

I hope he will be a huge factor this week against the eagles as they will probably blitz 90 percent of the time, the giants blitz us 80 percent accrding to the satr tribune, so i look for a huge game as he should be a hot read over and over again. i beleive in a purple victory and hell even a SB appearance, hey im highly optumistic, so lets start here with an eagles team that maybe shouldnt be here. i the the Peice of shit bears can beat them, we got this

Shank has really proven himself to be an asset to the team. What a great clutch catch on third down on Sunday. The vikes are lucky to have him.

Congratulations on the NFC North crown and good luck in the playoffs.

I LOVE the fact that everyone is picking the Eagles. That Shiancoe interview AustinVike is talking about was on Fox Sports Radio—I heard it on my XM Radio last night. I also listen to the Steve Czaban show at work during the day, and they have a recurring saying when they’re picking NFL games: Run to the smell.

This means that when everyone seems to be picking a certain team, the other team must stink…which is precisely when you should bet on the team that stinks. And it usually works.

All four road teams are favored this weekend. You really think all four home teams are going to get beaten in their own stadium? I sincerely doubt it. As long as we can break even or win the all-important turnover battle, I see the Purple heading to Carolina next weekend.

SKOL VIKINGS!!!

I’ll be at the game doing my best to turn it into a Thunderdome!

but I live in Virginia. Vikes take this game and I will be cheering them on in Carolina.

I ordered a new Viking shirt yesterday. I hope it gets here in time for the game on Sunday!