The NFL season began last night in the “BIG EASY,” with the defending world champion New Orleans Saints holding off Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings.
Favre and the Vikings were frustrated by the Saints’ excellent defensive game plan throughout the game, and they were unable to overcome some shortcomings caused by questionable officiating.
Vikings Pass Offense
Grade: C+
When the Saints sent in 5 rushers to pressure Favre, he had an abysmal 15.9 QB rating.
Vikings Run Offense
Grade: B
Adrian Peterson was able to avoid any costly mistakes vs. the Saints. He seems to have finally discovered the art of “holding onto the pig skin.”
Vikings Pass Defense
Grade: D
Drew Brees was able to terrorize the depleted Vikings secondary whenever he wanted.
Vikings Run Defense
Grade: D
The Vikings shut down the Saints’ run offense early in the game, but were unable to stop the Saints late in the game, giving the gunslinger a shot to win it.
Vikings Special Teams
Grade: D
Berrian looked absolutely lost trying to return punts, nearly giving the Saints a fumble recovery deep in Vikings territory.
Overall
Grade: D
Were these the “real” Vikings for the 2010 season? If they are, they’re in for an epic disappointment this season. Favre is still trying to get in sync with his receivers, and the Vikings will return their 3 missing defensive backs over the next few weeks. If Peterson truly has discovered the art of holding onto the ball, then the Vikings will be far improved this season.
