Greatest Viking Of All Time Tournament: (2) Jared Allen vs (7) Pat Williams

The second round of our Greatest Viking Of All Time Tournament continues, ladies and gentlemen! In this round, a pair of outstanding teammates from recent Minnesota Vikings history face off. . .one of whom is known for getting to the quarterback, and the other better known for stopping opposing runners in their tracks.

Jared Allen

Alma Mater: Idaho State University (or the Culinary Academy, depending on when you ask)
Acquired by Minnesota: Trade with Kansas City Chiefs before the 2008 NFL Draft
Seasons in Minnesota: 5 (2008-2012)
Position: Defensive end
How He Got Here: Defeated Fred Zamberletti 114-44 in Round 1

The centerpiece of a blockbuster trade for the Minnesota Vikings that has really worked out nicely, Jared Allen has been wreaking havoc on quarterbacks ever since he put on the purple and gold. In just five seasons with Minnesota, he has averaged nearly 15 sacks a season (74.5 in five years), including making a run at the single-season sack record for the Vikings' dismal 2011 team. Currently the National Football League's highest-paid defensive player, he may be looking at his last season in Minnesota. If the first five years are any indication, it should be another good one for #69.

Pat Williams

Alma Mater: Texas A&M
Acquired by Minnesota: Signed as free agent prior to 2005 season
Seasons in Minnesota: 6 (2005-2010)
Position: Defensive Tackle
How He Got Here: Defeated Rick Spielman 149-59 in Round 1

As half of the famed "Williams Wall" that held down the middle of the Vikings' defense for six seasons, "Phat" Pat may have been the best run-stuffing defensive tackle of his era. When paired with Kevin Williams, it was nearly impossible to run up the middle against the Vikings' defense. Though he was never known for his pass rush, he was so thoroughly dominant as a run stopper that he made the Pro Bowl three times from 2006 to 2008, and was a second-team All-Pro in 2007.

If you need a primer on how the voting for our contest works, we have one for you at this link here. Remember, rec the comments to register your vote. Putting "Vote - Name" in the subject line of a post does not count.

If you want to vote for Jared Allen, rec the comment that says "Vote - Jared Allen"
If you want to vote for Pat Williams, rec the comment that says "Vote - Pat Williams"

Voting is open for 24 hours, just like always, folks. Have at it!