Minnesota Vikings News and Links: November 26, 2018

Happy post-win-against-a-hated-division-rival-Monday, everyone!

Most of you know that I love Mondays. You know what I love more than Mondays? That’s right, post-win Mondays. You know what I love even more than post-win Mondays? Right again, post-win-against-the-Packers Mondays! The team got a big win last night against a division rival, in a game that some would say was a must-win game. With the current state of the NFC, I wouldn’t go that far, but a loss would have made reaching the playoffs much more difficult.

The team came up big in a big game on prime time, and walked away with a W. They kept the NFC North crown within reach, and are in position to control their playoff destiny. The first three drives against the Packers O had me a little nervous, but the defense played tough after that, and didn’t allow Rogers and company much at all. Coverage was outstanding (mostly), and they played tough against the run. Rogers was even a bit frustrated, and the pass rush started getting to him as the game wore on and he had nowhere to throw. The one major negative for the defense was seeing Rhodes go down toward the end of the game. It sure looked to me like it was an injury to his hamstring, but I I’m not a doctor and I hope I’m wrong. I’m guessing we’ll know soon.

The offense found some rhythm last night, which was needed after an abysmal showing in Chicago (especially for Cousins) last week. While last night’s game was against a less-than-stellar defense, I was encouraged by how well they moved the ball through the air. Cousins had a tremendous night with nearly 350 yards passing, 3 touchdowns, and zero completions to the wrong team (although he needs to learn how to slide, that $84 million is guaranteed). The running game was flat, but Cook had some big plays in the passing game to contribute. I do wish DeFilippo would do a better job in using the running game. There is nothing wrong with simplicity at times, just give your RB the ball & let him find a crease & get yards. It seems he gets too creative with the playcalling sometimes, and makes something more complex than it needs to be at times, but maybe that’s just me. I like simple. In the end, it was a win, and fans should like what they saw from the Vikings passing attack. Oh, and what about that catch by Diggs that sealed the win? THAT was a clutch catch by a clutch player. I love Diggs.

Special teams came up big toward the end to recover a punt that was touched by the Packers, and Sherels had one nice return. Also, I’m starting to dislike kickers. SKOL!!!!!!!!

Around the DN since our last open thread:

Chris has your post-game wrap-up.

Randy Moss received his Hall-of-Fame ring at halftime of last night’s game,

Luft Krigfare posted Good Morning Gjallarhorn Episode 034 - It’s Packers Week.

Chris shared a cool video. John Randle and Brett Favre are cruising around Minneapolis, talking about their days of playing against one another.

Vikings news from other sources and news from around the rest of the NFL:

At Vikings.com, watch Randy Moss receive his Pro Football Hall-of-Fame ring, watch all the highlights from last night’s game, catch Coach Zimmer’s post-game presser, and there’s a lot more to look through in the media vault.

From the Sporting News, the 49ers released Reuben Foster yesterday, a day after Foster was arrested (again) in Tampa Bay on charges of domestic violence.

From ESPN, and for our friends north of the border, eh, the Calgary Stampeders won the Grey Cup (yep, that’s the real name of the championship trophy) with a win over the Ottowa Redblacks (yep, that’s their real name. Nope, I don’t know what a redblack is).

John Harbaugh isn’t ready to name his starting QB for next week, per NFL.com.

NFL.com takes a look at the latest NFL playoff picture.

Catch up on the NFL week 12 scores and highlights, courtesy of CBS Sports.

We come to today’s media selection:

It gives me great pleasure to follow our DN tradition on post-win Monday. Strike up the band!

Again, we all know the rules, but in case someone is new:

• No discussion of politics or religion
• No feeding of the trolls
• This isn’t a male version of The View, so leave the gender hatred at the door
• Keep the bad language to a minimum (using the spoiler tags, if you must)
• Speaking of which, if discussing a newer show or movie, please use spoiler tags
• No pictures that could get someone fired or in serious trouble with their employer
• If you can’t disagree in a civil manner, feel free to go away
• While navigating the open thread, just assume it’s sarcasm

With that, the beer light is on and the bar is open. Belly up and tie one on. Don’t forget to tip your waitress, and try the grilled cheese