Grade the Vikings' first pre-season performance.

[trotsky]

Offense: A-. A minus only because the first team didn't run the ball all that well. Culpepper looked GREAT, and Burleson looks ready to step up. Travis Taylor could be a surprise this year too!

Defense: Incomplete. Some great stops (Udeze's goal-line stuff was awesome to see) but WAY too many 3rd-and-longs were allowed to be converted). Maybe when Smoot is healthy that will make a difference. Still, you'd like to see them be able to handle when a starter or two is out. Overall the tackling seemed improved, though.

[KitchenWitch]

1. Unfortunately I was unable to watch the game

I am more optimistic about the team than I have been in years however, even though I think we need a new head coach!

[trotsky]

3. With the right coordinators,

I think Tice will do fine as head coach. Especially without the Moss distractions. Tice is good at relating to the players and brings emotion to the game - something Denny sorely lacked.

Cottrell is great as D coordinator, now it remains to see how Loney does on offense. If Friday night's playcalling is any indication, I think it'll be fine.

[Stephist]

2. It Was Solid

It's always tough to grade these things because teams play their basic stuff. But i would give it at least a B :) a little concerned about the new D but I'm still not sure. At least I get to wear my Brad Johnson jersey again.