The national outlets seem to love the Packers, but finally the Vikings are getting some love from NFL analysts who work at the big networks.
New to the Vikings’ support group is NFL Network’s Bucky Brooks, who says the Vikings are going to be a “heavyweight contender” in the NFC for the next few seasons.
“Rick Spielman and Mike Zimmer have assembled a championship-caliber roster that features a number of blue-chip talents with a blue-collar mentality at the marquee positions. On defense, the Vikings have a set of energetic pass rushers (Griffen and Barr) to complement a rock-solid defensive tackle adept at swallowing up blockers (Joseph). Smith is the NFL’s best-kept secret between the hashes. The fifth-year pro is not only a wily ball hawk, but he delivers devastating blows to pass catchers venturing over the middle. With Rhodes showing promise as a CB1, the Vikings’ defense can spearhead a Super Bowl push with little assistance from an offense that’s led by the unstoppable Peterson.”
Brooks’ top five talented teams include the Seahawks, Steelers, Panthers, Broncos and Vikings.
While Brooks loves what the Vikings are bringing this season, Vegas oddsmaker Bovada thinks the Packers will win the division. Green Bay is the 2-to-3 odds-on favorite to win the division while the Vikings have 9-to-4 odds. The Bears and Lions both have 9-to-1 odds.
We’ll see if the talented roster results in a bunch of wins and a playoff appearance, but right now the Vikings are starting the first of ten organized team activities. Those will be followed by mandatory minicamp in June and then training camp in late July.
Earlier this week, Everson Griffen, Teddy Bridgewater and other players toured U.S. Bank Stadium for the first time. Watch the video right here.
