Big Time Defense With a Shot of Peterson

The only thing missing from last year's record setting Vikings defense was a pass rush. Without QB pressure the Patriots exposed the Vikings and provided the NFL with a blueprint for a poor season. That all changed in week one with new defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier. After watching this defense dismantle the Falcons and pressure Harrington into multiple bad decisions, I'm thinking playoffs.

With the Lions, the pathetic Chiefs and the offensiveless Packers on the schedule before a true test away at the Bears, the Vikings have a legitimate chance of being 4-1 or 5-0 before a tough stretch with the Cowboys, Eagles and Chargers to wrap up the first half.

For the first time in a long time I'm excited to see what this defense can do, if Peterson will stay healthy and put up 1,300 yds with 12 TD's and how Jackson and Rice will develop. It was fun to see how much fun the players where having on the sidelines in the fourth quarter. Everyone seems more comfortable with Childress, his system and just how good this team can be.

Then again it was the Vickless Falcons.

Up next, a chance to give the "10 win" Lions a reality check. I can't wait.