Minnesota Vikings News And Links, 12/5

Yes, it's Thursday, ladies and gentlemen, and that means we have the start of the NFL week. Tonight on the NFL Network, the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Houston Texans will do battle in the race for something that, for some people, is even more important than the Super Bowl. . .the #1 overall pick in the NFL Draft. We have a few more days of waiting to do before the Minnesota Vikings take on the Baltimore Ravens, but I think we can make it until then.

Since the last time we brought you an Open Thread. . .

-The Vikings finally decided on a starting quarterback, as Matt Cassel will get the call this week against the Ravens.

-The team made another move as well, as they've moved Erin Henderson back to the weak-side linebacker position, allowing Audie Cole to continue starting in the middle.

From some other outposts around the internet. . .

-At least one person has noticed that the Vikings could probably stand to use a lot of draft picks on their defense.

-Defensive tackle Kevin Williams was the recipient of the team's Ed Block Courage Award for 2013.

-Cornerback Chris Cook was fined $26,250 for his contact with a referee on Sunday. . .a fine that he is appealing.

-Some guy we know is coaching in the Mississippi State High School Football Championship Game this weekend.

The rules of the Open Thread are the same as they've ever been, ladies and gentlemen. . .no religion, no politics, no feeding of the trolls, and keep the bad language to a minimum/use the spoiler tags if you feel that you absolutely must curse.

The Meat Loaf? It's still good.

With that, the beer light is on and the bar is open for this Thursday, folks. We'll have more for you throughout the course of the day, including Eric's picks for this week.