An Open Letter to Brad Childress

by Gonzo on Sep 14, 2008 8:02 PM CDT in Vikings Comment 67 comments

Chili-bk_medium

Dear Brad Childress,

At one point of today's Vikings' game, a game that my Beloved Purple lost by a final score of 18-15, I honestly thought that the mighty Peyton Manning and company were going to come into our building and leave with a loss. I believe it was right after Ryan Longwell hit his fifth field goal of the afternoon, one that came from 28 yards out to make the score 15-0 in favor of the Vikings.

Yes, at that point, I thought that the Vikings were going to come out victorious and avoid the dreaded 0-2 start.

And then, the folks at CBS made the mistake of showing a shot of you on the sidelines.

It was at THAT point that I knew we were screwed.

See, prior to that point, the Vikings' defense had held Manning and Harrison and Wayne and Addai to zero points in 40+ minutes of football. It was the first time that the Colts had been shut out through the first half in almost two calendar years. He was harrassed, he was throwing interceptions, he was getting sacked, the crowd was electrified. At that point, Harrison and Wayne had a combined ONE catch for FOUR yards. Joseph Addai had NEGATIVE rushing yards.

But I knew that somehow. . .some way. . .that you, Brad Childress, creator of the prevent offense and master of losing close games in situations where you clearly should not, would find a way to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory this afternoon. And, clearly, you did not let me down.

Were you really so naive or arrogant (or both) enough to think that the Minnesota defense, as good as it is, was going to be able to stop Peyton Manning for an entire game? Did you really think that you could keep sending Ryan Longwell out there on possession after possession and have that be good enough to beat a team the caliber of the Indianapolis Colts? Did you think for one second that when you got the ball back on your own 2-yard line with less than two minutes left and Indianapolis having all three of their time outs that you could NOT EVEN MAKE AN EFFORT TO GET A FIRST DOWN and be able to just coast into overtime?

See, Mr. Childress, anyone that's watched the Vikings for any amount of time over the last 2+ years knows that these are the kind of games that you excel at losing. In this, your third season as the Vikings' head coach, you've been on the sidelines for 34 games. . .14 victories and 20 losses. Of those 20 losses, 13 of them have been by seven points or fewer, and in the majority of those games, the Vikings have had an opportunity to either tie or take the lead in the closing minutes. And they have not. . .and that's, largely, because of you.

I have never, ever, in my life seen a more unimaginative and more uncreative offense than the offense that I've seen from the Minnesota Vikings over your tenure as head coach. I think that a half a dozen of my readers, armed with nothing more than a copy of Madden '09, a case of Mountain Dew, and a few large pizzas, could put together a far more creative and far more coherent offensive game plan than what we've seen for the last 2+ years. Hell, Dan Dierdorf was calling the plays in the CBS booth before the ball was being snapped. . .and he was nailing it EVERY. . .SINGLE. . .TIME. If he knows what's coming, don't you think that everyone on the other sideline knows what's coming, too?

As of today, Adrian Peterson is on pace for 2,152 rushing yards. . .and 8 touchdowns. The fact that that guy can do anything in THIS offense is a testament to his unbelievable ability and talent, and it frightens me to think about what the guy would be capable of in an offense that could put up points in the Big Ten Conference, never mind the National Football League. I guess that there are some things that not even you are capable of screwing up. Lord knows that you've probably tried, but you haven't managed to do so yet.

Now, I'm sure that you're of the understanding that many people will attempt to place the blame for the offensive ineptitude at the feet of your quarterback, third-year player Tarvaris Jackson. And I'll admit that Jackson has had his struggles as a starting quarterback. He's immensely talented, but for some reason just doesn't seem to "have everything together." At least, that's how I'm sure it would look to an outsider. But how, exactly, do you expect the guy to "get it" with the way you run an offense?

In the season opener in Green Bay, the Vikings threw 7. . .SEVEN. . .passes in the first half. How in the heck is a quarterback supposed to develop any sort of rhythm when he only throws the ball seven times in one half of play? In today's game, young Jackson threw just nine passes in the first half, completing five, including two beauties at the end of the half to get the Vikings into position for. . .you guessed it. . .another field goal.

In addition to that, there is no "mid-range" passing game in this offense. At least, that's the impression I'm under. Every pass that you allow Jackson to throw is either a 3-yarder or an attempt at a 50-yarder. There's nothing in between. How on earth do you expect anyone to develop any sort of rhythm or rapport with their receivers if you're constantly expecting them to throw low percentage passes?

Oh, and do you think we could maybe mix in a play-action pass occasionally? I don't mean the type of play-action passes that you're used to, where our QBs and our RBs get within 4 yards of each other and try to make people think that anyone's going to buy that sort of crap. I mean a real, honest-to-goodness play-action pass. You'd think that with a running game that you haven't managed to screw up yet that this would be the foundation of our passing game, but it doesn't appear as though that's the case. It should be.

Finally, it's not just Tarvaris Jackson. Since you took over in Minnesota, Mr. Childress, there have been four different quarterbacks in charge of your alleged "kick-ass offense". . .Brad Johnson, Brooks Bollinger, Kelly Holcomb, and Tarvaris Jackson. And you know what I've noticed? They've ALL looked AWFUL. Even WITH the immense talents of Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor behind them. . .even WITH an outstanding offensive line in front of them. They've all looked terrible within the confines of your offense.

Most coaches tailor their offense to fit their personnel. You seem to be hell-bent on doing exactly the opposite.

And that's why I, alone in my thought process though I may be, refuse to throw Tarvaris Jackson under the proverbial bus at this point in time. It's clear that Jackson has talent. . .he's mobile, he's got a strong arm, and he appears to be a relatively bright guy. All of that stuff leads me to ask myself how much better he could be if he wasn't hamstrung by one of the most inept offenses I've ever had the displeasure to witness. Let the guy loose and let him make plays. We heard all off-season about his improvement and his progress. . .let him prove it on the field.

Don't get me wrong, Mr. Childress. . .I love my team. I always have. It's been a 25-year love affair with myself and the Minnesota Vikings, and even your ineptitude isn't going to be enough to change that. Therein lies the only small joy that I can derive from this. Either things will change and the team will get things turned around. . .or you'll continue to waste the immense talent that you've been surrounded with over your time in Minnesota, and you'll be standing in the unemployment line shortly after Week 17. In any event, it's a win-win situation for the Minnesota Vikings and their fans.

Mike Tice was fired by Zygi Wilf, and he accomplished far, far more with far, far less than you've been given in your time as the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings. At this point, I would be more than happy to welcome ol' Meathead and his pencil back to the Minnesota sidelines in your stead.

Please. . .for the sake of everybody's sanity. . .get this together and pointed in the right direction.

Sincerely,
Christopher Gates
Head Blogger, DailyNorseman.com and lifelong Minnesota Viking fan

4 recs | Comment 67 comments | Share

Story-email Email Printer Print

Comments

Immediately after the game was over, I deleted it from my Tivo.

I really wish I hadn’t.

I want to watch it over again and see how many passes Tavaris had that weren’t side dumps to AP. The play-calling again was atrocious on offense. The defense held very well for the most part. And the worst part I know, is that members of the defense will blame themselves publicly for the loss. This loss is entirely on Childress’ shoulders, and sadly, I don’t expect that to change throughout the season.

So, do you think Bill “The Chin” Cowher will be available after this season is done? I’m just curious.

by Robert Rence on Sep 14, 2008 8:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Nice Picture!

You hit it right on the head there mr. gates. Enter Bill Cowher! Chilly,…I will see you at BK!!!

by Gornara on Sep 14, 2008 8:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

exactly

I don’t understand why everyone can’t see this

by enfuego29 on Sep 14, 2008 8:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Call Me

I think that a half a dozen of my readers, armed with nothing more than a copy of Madden ‘09, a case of Mountain Dew, and a few large pizzas, could put together a far more creative and far more coherent offensive game plan than what we’ve seen for the last 2+ years.

I’m in.

by JasonAve6413 on Sep 14, 2008 9:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'll do it as well.

Without the Mountain Dew.

Twins Fix
http://www.twinsfix.com

by Andersklasen on Sep 14, 2008 11:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think we could pick 12 plays

That’d be what… 5 more than what Childress ran?

by Robert Rence on Sep 14, 2008 11:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

if 9-7 with half the talent = fired what the hell is this

I don’t think anyone was shocked with the Tice firing, but this is the better solution? I just don’t see how the owner can stand by this coach. Whether Jackson is terrible or his play is a result of these horrific play calls, it doesn’t matter to me anymore. Either way, childsIQdress is the root of the problem. He and his boy Bevel should be gone by Monday, Frazier should be made temporary Head Coach and we should bring someone in with knowledge of the west cost offense.
Only two things happen if we do that, we either eat it for a year while we adjust, or this super talented team starts getting wins and by the time the playoffs come they are well versed in the new coaches ways. This may seem crazy, but I have a pretty good (actually this is bad) feeling that we are about to eat another year of watching the team dominate everything but the score board and passing game while childsIQdress talks about consistency.
This is the most painful thing I have seen since Green had the team take knee for OT in 98. I am freaking sick.

by VikesSince85 on Sep 14, 2008 9:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

brilliant

take, that

by sdot on Sep 14, 2008 9:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

ego

childress will only have a qb with no brain play for him, he does not want the qb to question play calls, or change plays, he wants all the credit, he should now get all the blame, was it the tin man or the scarecrow who needed the brain? which is T-Junk

by ztavike on Sep 14, 2008 10:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

McNabb vs. Jackson

The dazzling ego of Childress is never brighter than when he tries to claim responsibility for the performance of Donovan McNabb and believed he’d be able to mold Jackson into the same player. McNabb, a four year starter for a NCAA Division I school, three time offensive player of the year, THE 1990s offensive player of the decade in the Big East Conference and the 2nd pick of the 1999 draft class. Brad Childress convnices us to trade away two 3rd round picks to move up into the second round to grab a player that NO ONE, not even the player himself, expected to be taken until the 4th round.

But Chili is smarter than everyone else you see, because only he knows how awesome his abilities are. And after three years of being a head coach he will continue to be the only one that sees his genius.

by dwarg on Sep 14, 2008 10:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Chili Potter and the Hamstrung Quarterback

In 2006 it was thought the Vikings needed a change. Scandals were abundant and wins were scarce. Zigi Warbucks sent off a terse letter to the media firing the bumbling Tice after a victory over the Chicago Bears, finishing the season with a 9-7 record (A mark Childress has yet to match). While Tice’s wife answered the media’s questions about her family’s future, Tice was being informed of what everyone else already knew. The new Vikings organization was going to need a “class act” to lead them to the new stadium-filled promised land. And that wasn’t Ticey. But who?

What does a real estate mogul from Jersey know about hirin’ football coaches? So he puffs on his cigar then offers one to his buddy Paul Tagliabue and says, “Pauley, I was thinkin’ you could help me out. You got a head coach waitin’ in the wings somewheres?” Paul took a long sniff as he slid the rolled Cuban leaf across his upper lip, which drove Zigi crazy since he always sniffed and chewed and licked his cigars but never lit the damn things.

“There’s this fella in Philly” said Tagliabue. “A strange little sort with a mustache but he’s good with colored quarterbacks they say.”

“I got me one of those!!!” said Zigi excited. “Leastways I used to… He got his knee busted up but I reckon he’ll run again.”

“Then we’ve got a match” muttered Paul absently. “Childress is his name… Err Brad, I think… anyway that’s your man. You take care now.” he said as he stepped out of Zigi’s office lightly teething his new cigar.

Zigi chuckled, “looks like he’s eating a dog turd” he thinks to himself… His eyes cross momentarily as he looks at the end of his cigar clenched in his teeth and the smile fades from his face.

As the camera fades to black.

by dwarg on Sep 14, 2008 10:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Now that is funny..and creative

I blog the Carolina Panthers at www.catscratchreader.com

by Jaxon on Sep 16, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Amen

Spot on, Gonzo.

Skol Vikings!
+Rev. Vike
Alexandria, VA

by Rev. Vike on Sep 14, 2008 10:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I can't wait until Zigi dumps this clown

And I think it will be mid-season.

by chacabuco on Sep 14, 2008 10:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Sick of this

Took the words out of my mouth. Especially about the offense and the terrible play calling. Hey well if this keeps up we get a new coach next year on the bright side.

by Zoxide on Sep 14, 2008 10:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Seriously

email this to the entire organization. Stand outside the dome every day and pass out copies of this. Email this to the commish. Even Roger has to have some sympathy on us, right?

Utter brilliance. Nice work Gonzo.

Twins Fix
http://www.twinsfix.com

by Andersklasen on Sep 14, 2008 11:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

THIS JUST BUMS ME OUT...

Its so true and undeniable… we will eat another season, scaithing by with hopefully a 9-7 record. Thats what bums me out… if something happens it’ll be next season. And a season after that before progress is made… sometimes i wish i could just say, i’m not gonna be a fan no more, but i can’t. Cuz no matter what, i love the vikes…

by Macdaddy4508 on Sep 14, 2008 11:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

A Season Is A Terrible Thing To Waste...

Adrian Peterson’s talents are being squandered in a most horrific way…here he can gain 160 yards despite being thrown straight up the middle almost every play…have they ever thought to design plays to get him into open field…this is the most frustrating team I’ve seen in a long time…I have no faith in the head coach, he doesn’t seem to have a clue

by sle71r on Sep 14, 2008 11:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Holy crap Gonzo

Are you reading my mind? Because I swear that’s almost exactly what I’ve been thinking since Game 1. Great read about a horrible situation.

Any chance we can trade Clueless for Shanahan, a guy who can actually run an offense and has a pair?

Oh, and consider me in on the Madden 09/mountain dew/pizza deal too.

As always, in AP I trust.

http://img110.imageshack.us/img110/4156/farva2af5.jpg

by FarvaForTheVikings on Sep 14, 2008 11:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You got it

You hit the nail right on the head. This is exactly how I see and I find it to be the most frustrating thing in the world. There is so much talent and this team should be able to do so much more.

"We're so bad right now that for us back-to-back home runs means one today and another one tomorrow." - - Earl Weaver

by Gorilla Bird on Sep 15, 2008 12:33 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

IT HURTS

boys and girls, i just drank the night away. it still hurts, im the only vikings fan around here, all i did was get ragged on. this is my team till i remember football, these are my boys, i love them . this cant keep up boys, they are too good to be 0-2 and one game from the season being done, too good. last year i got hated on for saying AD is better then reggie bush, He showed them wrong. guys this cant happen , they can not miss and all these loser teams make it. not this year, i felt it , i said it to everyone, this was suppose to be our year, and 0-2. it hurts bad, and im ready for the worst. T-jacks got it man, i know he dose, he just hasnet got the play calling that he needs. COME ON, AD did what he needs to do, how can we be losing to indie when we dominate like that, this reminds me of the bears when they made the super bowl vikings had them and messed it up. PLEASEEEEEE ALLLL I WANT IS THIS, ALLL I DREAMED OFFF. PLESASEE T JACK, NOT THIS YEAR. GO VIKINGS

by Canadian_viking on Sep 15, 2008 2:13 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Beautiful Post

I hope this website is Ziggi’s home page when he logs on to his computer. He needs to realize the lack of coaching ability Childress has. Pathetic….simply pathetic.

by JRockItsAllGood on Sep 15, 2008 6:36 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

If you could read my mind!

I sat downstairs in my “man cave” wondering WHY do we still have this coach… If Ziggy is as competative as everyone says he is, it begs to ask the question…. after watching Mr. BK (Childress) screw up yet another Viking win! I don’t understand…. I am new to the web site as of this morning and Thank God I found it…. Another reason I won’t have to read the rants and raves of stupid sports reporters who don’t come clean on what is really happening to our team… I am sick of them and I’m sick of Mr. BK! Thanks gang…. Look forward to reading more on what is really happening to our team!

by Vikesforever on Sep 15, 2008 8:28 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

If Dierdorf could predict the play call....

you fail as a coach – no ifs, ands or buts. I think Jackson could succeed with the right system, and you make a great point about nobody being able to fit into the system. Johnson definitely wasn’t happy with the system that first year, if I remember right. But what does Brad Johnson know about success?? Oh wait…. No idea who the next head coach should be, at least maybe Linehan can come back as OC for next year (he’ll probably be looking for another job…). How ’bout a poll on that??

by MSA on Sep 15, 2008 8:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

trade Chilli for Kiffin?

Just kidding…but something need to be done His “kick-ass” offense is offensive and he should have his ass kicked out the door. (please refer to Gonzo’s rant for specifics) The season can stil be saved but we need to make changes NOW!!!

by Odin on Sep 15, 2008 9:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I really really

do hate this man. It must be a gift to poop on so much god given talent and somehow have them lose. Any time you show fear in the NFL (which Chilly does weekly in his play calling) the other team will feed on it an use it against you.

by Jepp The Viking on Sep 15, 2008 10:27 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

What about Griffin?

Was I the only one that noticed Manning completely abusing Cedric Griffin on nearly every pass play? Once Winfield got the first pick, Manning never looked in his direction the rest of the game. With each Colts completion, there was Griffin, always a minute too late. If Griffin continues to play the way he did yesterday, McCauley will be coming off his injury, right into the starting lineup.

On a side note. How about bringing Brian Billick back to Minny? He’s certainly a better coach than he is an announcer.

by VIKES311BOY on Sep 15, 2008 10:37 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Billick should've been made HC after 1998

After D.Green muffed things up in the NFC Championship game, Billick should’ve been given the reigns.

But we gave him to Baltimore and he won them a Superbowl instead.

by DelawareBerserker on Sep 16, 2008 12:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Viking fans bought the preseason hype hook, line, and sinker..

This team is the exact same team I saw last year, they have the best running back in the NFL and that’s about it. I’ve been a Viking fan long enough to know not to get to excited about any upcoming season, but really Vikings and the media have sold a big fat lemon to the fans and most fans bought it.

by d_marschke on Sep 15, 2008 11:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

With all that said...

I am not a fan of Childress… however, if the FG was good and the Vikes went up 18 to Zip.. we wouldnt be having these conversations. I am still depressed over the conservative play calling, not allowing Jackson use his abilities and the bone head decisions of Childress (like using a challenge at the 1 inch line) but at the same time I cant swallow a few facts.

1. The Ref’s blew 2 key calls. The Pass interference when Wade was trying to move the chains.
2. The final field goal.. if u look at the replays from the kickers viewpoint, the center for Indy completely held and tackled someone trying to advance to block the kick. That was an obvious holding call that would have pushed them back 10 yards.
3. How can we spend that much money for Berrian and not get him at least 1 catch? That may be on Jackson not wanting to make any mistakes.
4. Fans boo Jackson for the dumbest things. Would u tell your kid he sucks and then expect him to go out and do well? How about a little support for crying out loud!

0-2.

Completely outplayed both opponents.

WTF.

by stellarfungk on Sep 15, 2008 11:36 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

That or...

Berrian is only running Streaks and Hooks.

Forget the skinny-Post, Post, Flag, Slant or any other aggressive West Coast passing route… they’re too successful

by DelawareBerserker on Sep 16, 2008 12:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The only good news

is that the Panthers looked very beatable on Sunday against the Bears. The Vikes have much more talent then the Panthers. This is the second week in a row that the Panthers have pulled out a fairly lucky win. Thanks to Greg Olsen (Bears TE), aka Mr. Butterfingers, for his two critical fumbles. (I think we got the better of that draft.)

The Vikes can and should beat the Panthers, even on the road, by seven points.

by jayinchicago on Sep 15, 2008 12:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I apologize

I meant to refer to Greg Olsen as Mrs. Butterworh.

by jayinchicago on Sep 15, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That logic might stand

if not for the return of Steve Smith. Make that a jacked-up Steve Smith. Is the Vikings defense better than the Bears? I don’t think so. Is your passing offense? Debatable. Vikings by 7? Hmmm…if I were a betting man I’d take that.

I blog the Carolina Panthers at www.catscratchreader.com

by Jaxon on Sep 16, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Very nice Gonzo...couldn't agree more!

Great article! Let me pose a few questions.

Do you think that Childress should address the media this week and publicly reclaim the offensive play-calling duties? If Bevell is calling these plays, does Childress need to first approve of them? Should Bevell maybe be back up in the booth where he can see the field and how his offense is absolutely sucking, getting no seperation, and running the same play over and over?

Personally, if Childress wants to keep his job, I think he should reclaim the play calling and make a very conscious effort to NOT SUCK! Show us your offensive “genius” before Mr. Wilf says, “Hey, we like your drafting/scouting abilities….why don’t you focus more on that while we offer this 15 year old madden phenom a coaching job.”

by jswen on Sep 15, 2008 1:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

No offense...

But when I saw this bald headed, mustache wearing guy at the podieum being introduced as the next head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, I didn’t have a great feeling about it. He just seems completely unapproachable, and quite frankly, I have never EVER heard a player come out and back him or stand up for Childress. In college I played on a team that had an extremely powerful defense, but the offense sputtered. There is nothing, and I MEAN NOTHING, more frustrating for team morale when there is no points being put up on the board. And what is even worse, when the inept offense is being run by the head coach, the respect plummets. I can’t even imagine the contempt these players must harbor for their inexperienced, unapproachable, unproven, and jerk of a coach Mr. EGO himself Brad Childress. Bring back Dennis Green. Go after Cowher. But don’t try to find the next great head coach. At this point, after two failures of Tice (who I loved) and this guy, we need a proven vet who can take the reigns and garner respect and motivation the minute he steps onto the practice field. It is not a matter of if for Childress, its a matter of when and who can we get. Start lobbying Zygi.

by iowa_cyclone on Sep 15, 2008 1:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

follow up...

I know Childress isn’t the “official” offensive cordinator, but he is responsible for the final calls. All of the headsets are ran through Childress’ ear and he has the ability to say yes or no, or make calls. And don’t be fooled. I bet his O cordinator is treated just like the QB, a puppet regime with the strings being pulled by Coach Ego.

by iowa_cyclone on Sep 15, 2008 1:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

New COach, New QB

Dear Santa,
Please, oh PLEASE get us a new FREEKIN’ coach. If I haven’t been that good at least give me a top 20 QB. You better hurry because someone is going to buy this team and move it to Southern California where they like this mediocrity.
I love my Vikings but it’s so hard to watch.

by StAlphonzo on Sep 15, 2008 1:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

This season

…is in the same category as the Les Steckel year. Childress and Bevell need to be fired ASAP.

by versailles viking on Sep 15, 2008 2:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Between the photoshop

and this:

I think that a half a dozen of my readers, armed with nothing more than a copy of Madden ‘09, a case of Mountain Dew, and a few large pizzas, could put together a far more creative and far more coherent offensive game plan than what we’ve seen for the last 2+ years.

I am going to come here more often.

In all seriousness, I don’t mean to take pleasure in your misfortune (I’m from APC, the Packers’ SB Nation site). I really don’t.

"I'm so clean, cats think I sip Ajax."

by Mitchell_M on Sep 15, 2008 2:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It’s a good time here for the most part. The trouble is we get the occasional nut job from APC that makes the rest of you guys look bad.

Did you have any luck watching your game on the net this past week?

by Robert Rence on Sep 15, 2008 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pathetic Play Calling

Ok, let’s see. It’s 2nd down and 2 yards to go. I’ve got a great offensive line. I’ve got Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor in the backfield. I’ve also got an incredible run threat from the QB position. Common sense and percentage football dictates that you run the football to get the first down! So what do the Viking do? They violate the KISS (keep it simple stupid) principle by calling pass plays, thereby turning a manageable situtation into a cacaphony of errors! What a waste of talent and effort!

by RichmondVAVike on Sep 15, 2008 2:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

glory be......people are finally seeing the light

I’ve bitched about this coach and this QB since day one….everyone had an excuse for both of them…..

“Tj’s new…let him learn the system”

" Jackson needs some more experience"

“All TJ has to do is play average….just manage the game”

“the coaches don’t have the talent to run the offense Childress wants to”

“the OC should be calling all the plays”

heres the Bottom Line….

this coach is unable to make game time adjustments…..he’s been over his head since Day One, and continues to make blundering play calls…..he states the he completely believes in his Division 1AA “project”, yet is too egotistical to recognize that it’s impossible to mold the player to the system….Jackson wasn’t even a good college QB, yet Childress saw something in him that told him this kid could run his “kick ass offense”….and to this day, through all his first season struggles, Childress still has Jackson’s back….

Jackson will never succeed under Childress because he is the complete opposite of what is required of a QB to run his WCO…..we needs a passer to run this offense…not an athlete…ACCURACY is the number one ingredient in any system’s QB, and Jackson has proved his whole career that he anything but accurate….his mechanics have historically been his biggest problem, which lead to short throws and overthrows….don’t blame the WR’s for not getting the ball….this kid just plain SUCKS, and the longer he stays starting, the more games we lose….

Gus should take over this team, or let Booty loose to takes his lumps…..maybe in two years he will turn into something…..I’m almost sure that JD Booty could run this offense better than Jackson does…

by Hilton Head viking on Sep 15, 2008 3:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

TJ was new and he did deserve time to learn the system.

The problem is the system he’s in sucks. You can’t call that few of an amount of passing plays and be successful.

by Robert Rence on Sep 15, 2008 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fire Childress during the season?

I’ve actually seen some people opposed to firing Childress during the season, because they believe firing a coach mid-season never helps. I don’t buy into that. Even though we are 0-2, the season isn’t lost. A decent coach could take over and get something out of what I consider to be a pretty talented group of players. Even if (and I don’t think it is) it is too late for this season, the players would then have almost a full season under their belts with a new system by next year. Is that too much to ask?

We are all Vikings fans here, and patience is one of a Vikings fans best virtues.

The Minnesota Vikings - Undefeated in the Playoffs at Lambeau Field!

by BaldViking on Sep 15, 2008 4:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Problem with mid-season firing

If you get rid of your coach mid season you can’t talk to any currently employed coaches, coordinators, etc. without their teams permission. So your pool of potential replacements is rather shallow. If you want to salvage the season with a replacement coach he’s going to have to be a great one that has already retired and wants to get back into the NFL. These coaches tend to be expensive, but I do believe Zigi isn’t afraid to spend money—that’s something nice I can say about the organization.

Fire Childress!

by dwarg on Sep 15, 2008 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is it possible that there are intelligent Vikings fans?

I thought that was an oxymoron, but then a friend sent me here. It seems my theory that none of you knew anything about football has been proven inaccurate.
I hear Jeff Garcia is available, which might make the divisional race interesting again.
In the meantime, Go Pack Go!

by totalpackers on Sep 15, 2008 4:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Curious

As to what a Packer fan is doing on a Viking blog. But that aside I hope the team DOES get pissed. Look what happened after that 34-0 fiasco at Lambeu last year. Bottom line is take off the god damned hand cuffs on T Jack and lets see what he can do with an ENTIRE NFL PLAYBOOK. If he sucks, whatever start a new QB. If he does good, then AD will melt faces. Either or is better than sitting back in the Prevent Offense. I’d rather be decapitated then bleed out slowly.

by Jepp The Viking on Sep 15, 2008 5:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

If you want to talk about wasted talent...............

…………. as I am a Brewers fan, I am your guy. At least they got rid of the problem by firing Ned Yost. Maybe you guys are in the same type of situation.
By the way, great photoshop work. And I am curious where this “Kick-Ass Offense” thing came from?

I know you will hate me for it but, “Go Pack!!!”

"Get up, get up, get outta' here, GONE!!!"

by BrewerLover on Sep 15, 2008 5:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

kick-ass offense

It is a reference to what Childress promised Viking fans the day he got his HC job. I don’t remember the exact quote, but it has been a running joke since then.

by Odin on Sep 16, 2008 5:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

wtf?

why in the phuck do we care about the friggin brewers? LOL

Gonzo…you need to hire a blog screener

by Hilton Head viking on Sep 16, 2008 8:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Because they are/ were failing

despite great talent. Much like the Vikings.

"Get up, get up, get outta' here, GONE!!!"

by BrewerLover on Sep 16, 2008 9:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

exactly

Now, I’m sure that you’re of the understanding that many people will attempt to place the blame for the offensive ineptitude at the feet of your quarterback, third-year player Tarvaris Jackson. And I’ll admit that Jackson has had his struggles as a starting quarterback. He’s immensely talented, but for some reason just doesn’t seem to “have everything together.” At least, that’s how I’m sure it would look to an outsider. But how, exactly, do you expect the guy to “get it” with the way you run an offense?

EXACTLY
ooooh, Im so frustrated today

by DedicatedFollowerOfFashion on Sep 15, 2008 5:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Gonzo

That’s one of most inspiring things I’ve ever read. You are the heart and soul of the Minnesota Vikings.

Daily Norseman is the blog in SB Nation.

Gonzo2

by Gonzo2 on Sep 15, 2008 5:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Introduce myself!

I am a Panther fan and would just like to introduce myself. I will be causing havoc here for the next week leading up to Sunday’s game… j/k. But seriously, I would like to know how you all feel about going up against the Panthers this week? A team that is 2-0, by beating 2 of the NFLs best defenses, without its best player… who is well rested and now returning. We feel real confident here in Carolina… which, to be honest, could work in your favor. The Panthers are great choke artists when they are favored. And I am sure the Vikings will be fired up for a win… I am a little worried.

Jack Sutherland
SouthTunnel Web Development
http://www.southtunnel.com

by southtunnel on Sep 15, 2008 8:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

you are wrong about one thing, jackson is not bright. and unfortunately for us viking fans, niether is brad childress.

by norsemenxpress on Sep 15, 2008 11:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Childress's Mentor Andy Reid in Philadelphia

Would at least have the balls at the press conference after the game to say “I screwed up the play calling, we should’ve won this game.” And I’m not talking about once. Andy Reid has faced the Philly media (which is harsh, and its fans harsher still than in MN) and took the loss square on his shoulders.

Who else is to blame!?!?!

-AP ran for over 160 yds
-Defense scored 2 turnovers which led to points
-TJack protected the ball and produced ZERO turnovers and had a rating over 80. Which, if i’m not mistaken is all this team needed to do in order to win it all?
-Allen had a Sack and the DL created pressure

In the 4th quarter I remember seeing the same freaking play action- roll out right play that this offense has run 50% of the time this year. Pressured, TJ passed the ball (on 3rd down no less) to Tahi who was barely at the line of scrimmage when he needed 7+ for a first down. Why did Jackson check down and now throw downfield you ask? NO ONE WAS RUNNING A ROUTE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE FIELD outside of Tahi. No one past the line of scrimmage, no one past the first down marker, no one past GO- do not collect 200 dollars.

We have Berrian and Rice- two good wideouts. Allison is a natural slot receiver, and wade has proven to be successful as a slot receiver his whole career. We have a stellar offense line. Why not line up in a 4 WR spread package every now and then and throw a quick slant and challenge the opposition’s nickel and Dime Cornerbacks? Quick 3 step passes to loosen up the defense, do it enough and then run AP or CT on a draw?

Frustrated- I could go on and on…

As for Madden- NFL Head Coach lists Childress an an “Analyst”-type coach. It’s time he became one and analyzed his failures first and foremost.

by DelawareBerserker on Sep 16, 2008 12:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

just read the NFL.com Artical with comments from Childress about Jackson...

And it pisses me off to no end that you have to read a comment from Someone like Darren Sharper who I blame for the GreenBay loss.. cause instead of simply falling on the GB fumble.. this veteran and leader of the D decides to try and pick up the ball and run… which we never recovered the fumble because of it. He says “we dont want to be in the position we were in last year having to win games to make the playoffs”???? U wouldnt be if u know how to fall on a loose ball!

by stellarfungk on Sep 16, 2008 11:05 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I completely agree!

Childress is the bigger issue, not Jackson (as much).

Time to make a move at the top.

Purple Kool-Aid

what you say here can, and will, be used against you

by GopherNation on Sep 16, 2008 12:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Jackson is not the guy..........

I don’t care what we have to do, but there is no way we can go into a game this weekend with Jackson at QB. At least Frerotte can read a defense and make a few throws. I’m sure most of you watched the game this weekend, and maybe it’s just me but there were several instances that Jackson should have audibled out of the play they were in and he didn’t. Now either he did recognize the defense or didn’t know what to do if he did recognize it. Here’s an example. We have a 1st and 10 on the Indy 26 (not sure of the exact spot but that’s close). Indy has 8 in the box already and then they walk Sanders up so we have 9 in the box. Rather than check out of the play, Jackson turns around hands it Peterson and he gets killed at the line of scrimmage. The reason I bring this play up is that as Peterson is walking back to the huddle you can see he’s yelling at Jackson. Now if our 2nd year running back can recognize when they need to audible shouldn’t our quarterback???? I know some say we should open up the play book, but to be honest I don’t think Jackson know’s the offense to open it. My guess is the coaching staff is comfortable with maybe 30% of the playbook with Jackson in there. JMHO…..

by mills423 on Sep 16, 2008 12:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Do you know for sure...

that Jackson is given the liberty to call audibles? Looking at it from the outside… appears that he is executing the play just as it’s called for a reason. He’s in control of the puppet master!

by stellarfungk on Sep 16, 2008 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In his third year

if our QB isn’t able to make a simple read or isn’t allowed to call an audible, then that falls on the coaching staff. If we can only use 30% of our playbook for the third year guy who spent the last two off seasons as “they guy” then somebody should have recognized that long ago. I’m not defending Jackson or declaring him a future superstar, but the biggest problem this team has is who is wearing the headset. Then we’ll worry about who is QB.

And please don’t great Frerotte like anything other than a below average QB. In 2007 he made 4 starts averaging 1.75 TDs per game, 2.75 INTs and completing 58% of his passes which ranks about 20th in the league. He doesn’t give us any better chance of winning than TJax does. His 2007 QB rating of 58.3 is worse than TJax in 2007 or 2008.

what you say here can, and will, be used against you

by GopherNation on Sep 16, 2008 3:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In Gus' defense

He was behind the Rams O-Line then. Now he’s behind the Vikings O-Line. You’d like to think that would count for something. Just take a look at Manning’s stats over the past two games with a beat up Indy O-Line.

by Robert Rence on Sep 16, 2008 4:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good point......

I agree it’s the coaching staffs responsibility but he still has to do it on the field. Here again I think we need someone to manage the game and make a throw when necessary. It does come down to O-line and the players around them. Frerotte didn’t have AP or a decent line to play behind which he does now. It’s worth a shot to put him in. We are 0-2. In order for us to become a contender we need to take the pressure off our defense and expect our offense to score something more than a FG. I honestly don’t care what kind of stat or passer rating Jackson has, he cannot make the throw or decision when it counts.

by mills423 on Sep 17, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs