The big news today. . .other than the fact that it's the day before that big game in Tampa. . .is that this afternoon the voting will be announced for who will be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame for 2009.

As we've mentioned, three Vikings are up for the honor this season. . .wide receiver Cris Carter, guard Randall McDaniel, and defensive tackle John Randle.

ESPN.com's Pat Yasinskas seems to think that Carter is a lock for this year, while McDaniel and Randle are both a bit of a long shot to get in.  I have a tendency to agree with that assessment.  Quite frankly, it's ridiculous that Carter. . .who, in case you've forgotten, is the best wide receiver in the history of the NFL not named Jerry Rice. . .didn't get inducted last year, and if he doesn't get in this year, they should just shut the Hall of Fame down entirely.  He should pretty much be a lock to have his name called this afternoon.

The other two gentlemen are in a bit of a logjam. . .McDaniel's main competition appears to be former Steelers center Dermontti Dawson, while Randle will surely be compared to former Chiefs pass-rush specialist Derrick Thomas (another guy who, quite frankly, should be in already).  McDaniel will likely get in at some point, and Randle probably should, but I'm not sure if either of them will get the call this year.

No official time has been put out there for when the announcement is to be made. . .just "this afternoon."  After it comes out, we'll be here to congratulate Cris Carter (and everyone else that made it, but especially Carter) and discuss it.  Continue enjoying your Saturday until then, folks!