The Wake

The Minnesota Vikings 2004 season ended with a defeat at the hands of the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the NFL playoffs. The defense was the Achilles heel for the 2004 Vikings squad, which put the focus on defensive improvements for next season. The Vikings have had a very active offeseason, in which they have added five defensive starters. The 2005 Vikings squad is in position to win the NFC North Division barring any major setbacks due to injury.

4 D’s for 2005

1) Discipline. The Vikings must have a disciplined team because they have all the pieces of the puzzle to win the North Division this year. The Vikings won’t have any excuses for midseason blunders this year as their defense is vastly improved.

2) Daunte. Doctor Culpepper must have another big year for the Vikings’ offense to be successful moving the ball. Daunte also must control the ball and manage the game well since he is now Moss-less.

3) Defense. The Vikings defense must come together and play up to their potential for the Vikings to win the division and prosper in the playoffs.

4) Draft. The Vikings have two first-round picks in this year’s draft, which must be used correctly. The Vikings have the seventh and 18th overall draft picks, one of which may be used to draft another receiver. The Vikings should have the option to draft Braylon Edwards, Mike Williams or the impressive Matt Jones. Matt Jones is a genetic freak who is 6 feet 6 inches, runs a 4.4 sec. 40-yard dash and played quarterback for Arkansas. Jones is expected to play wide receiver, and the Vikings should have the ability to draft him as a work in progress.