Min at DET post-game

[The negotiator]

I know I'm a broken record but I think the major issue is Cousins deficiencies. You put Russell Wilson on this team and the OL will look much better, the running game will be more effective, the defense would resemble last year. Wilson would take this team to another level. . Yeah, I got a man crush.

Wilson is arguably a top 3 QB in the NFC, top 5 for sure. It's a travesty he got snubbed for Rodgers. He would certainly elevate the offense but a Wilson would never be available on the market. Even a guy like Cousins (top 10-15) is a rare occurrence.

So the Vikings had to overpay to get a decent QB. That's just the way it is. The problem was Rick's inability to realize Cousins would need help and can't work with a patchwork line.

Well stated

[Mothman]

Wilson is arguably a top 3 QB in the NFC, top 5 for sure. It's a travesty he got snubbed for Rodgers. He would certainly elevate the offense but a Wilson would never be available on the market. Even a guy like Cousins (top 10-15) is a rare occurrence.

So the Vikings had to overpay to get a decent QB. That's just the way it is. The problem was Rick's inability to realize Cousins would need help and can't work with a patchwork line.

I agree about the line, although I think an even bigger problem lies behind "that's the way it is". They needed to overpay to get a QB because they didn't successfully draft and develop one. I know I harp on this but Spielman spent 3 first round picks in 7 years on the QB position and none of those players are even on the roster. While a player like Wilson isn't going to hit the market in his prime and it's relatively rare for even a QB of Cousins' age and ability to be available, players like that can be found on the second and third day of the draft. Spielman literally passed up the opportunity to draft Wilson, Cousins and Nick Foles in 2012 and drafted Josh Robinson in R3. I realize hindsight is 2020 but it is his job to see that kind of potential and he hasn't exactly been shrewd about handling the QB position. It would have been reasonable to draft a developmental QB with real starting potential at that time. Ponder was in his second year and while they wanted to be supportive of him, he obviously wasn't a sure thing. Joe Webb was the primary backup. McLeod Bethel-Thompson was the #3. It would have been a good time (and a smart move) to draft a "Plan B", like Wilson, Foles or Cousins.

[PurpleMustReign]

Wilson is arguably a top 3 QB in the NFC, top 5 for sure. It's a travesty he got snubbed for Rodgers. He would certainly elevate the offense but a Wilson would never be available on the market. Even a guy like Cousins (top 10-15) is a rare occurrence.

So the Vikings had to overpay to get a decent QB. That's just the way it is. The problem was Rick's inability to realize Cousins would need help and can't work with a patchwork line.

I agree about the line, although I think an even bigger problem lies behind "that's the way it is". They needed to overpay to get a QB because they didn't successfully draft and develop one. I know I harp on this but Spielman spent 3 first round picks in 7 years on the QB position and none of those players are even on the roster. While a player like Wilson isn't going to hit the market in his prime and it's relatively rare for even a QB of Cousins' age and ability to be available, players like that can be found on the second and third day of the draft. Spielman literally passed up the opportunity to draft Wilson, Cousins and Nick Foles in 2012 and drafted Josh Robinson in R3. I realize hindsight is 2020 but it is his job to see that kind of potential and he hasn't exactly been shrewd about handling the QB position. It would have been reasonable to draft a developmental QB with real starting potential at that time. Ponder was in his second year and while they wanted to be supportive of him, he obviously wasn't a sure thing. Joe Webb was the primary backup. McLeod Bethel-Thompson was the #3. It would have been a good time (and a smart move) to draft a "Plan B", like Wilson, Foles or Cousins.

He also sent high picks to Philly for Bradford... Which was a needed move but Bradford isn't even playing in the league right now.

[Mothman]

He also sent high picks to Philly for Bradford... Which was a needed move but Bradford isn't even playing in the league right now.

The first round pick spent on Bradford was included in the three I mentioned, although I think that trade also cost them a 3rd round pick.

[S197]

Wilson is arguably a top 3 QB in the NFC, top 5 for sure. It's a travesty he got snubbed for Rodgers. He would certainly elevate the offense but a Wilson would never be available on the market. Even a guy like Cousins (top 10-15) is a rare occurrence.

So the Vikings had to overpay to get a decent QB. That's just the way it is. The problem was Rick's inability to realize Cousins would need help and can't work with a patchwork line.

I agree about the line, although I think an even bigger problem lies behind "that's the way it is". They needed to overpay to get a QB because they didn't successfully draft and develop one. I know I harp on this but Spielman spent 3 first round picks in 7 years on the QB position and none of those players are even on the roster. While a player like Wilson isn't going to hit the market in his prime and it's relatively rare for even a QB of Cousins' age and ability to be available, players like that can be found on the second and third day of the draft. Spielman literally passed up the opportunity to draft Wilson, Cousins and Nick Foles in 2012 and drafted Josh Robinson in R3. I realize hindsight is 2020 but it is his job to see that kind of potential and he hasn't exactly been shrewd about handling the QB position. It would have been reasonable to draft a developmental QB with real starting potential at that time. Ponder was in his second year and while they wanted to be supportive of him, he obviously wasn't a sure thing. Joe Webb was the primary backup. McLeod Bethel-Thompson was the #3. It would have been a good time (and a smart move) to draft a "Plan B", like Wilson, Foles or Cousins.

I'm with you on that and have always said Spielman's biggest mistake was lack of contingency at QB all the way back to when Favre was here. You have a 40+ year old QB and don't draft anyone? Crazy. I even used the RG3/Cousins example a few times as an example of proper draft strategy.

If you exclude Joe Webb, who was really meant to play WR, the ONLY backup Spielman's drafted is John David Booty. Everyone else was either UDFAs (Thigpen, Heinicke, Sloter, etc) or need based 1st rounders.

All that said, there were some funky things along the way, like with Ponder where we didn't know if there would be a season. Or Teddy's freak injury and Rick's ability to dodge a bullet in passing on Manziel who many wanted.

Rick definitely could have had a better draft strategy at QB that possibly could have prevented our predicament but after last year, I understand going all in on Cousins. While QB and OL are questionable, Rick has assembled quite a roster everywhere else. Which is why this year's draft was so tough and something I can't let go. He literally got this roster 90% of the way and then proceeded to fall on his face right before the finish line. It's baffling.

[Mothman]

I'm with you on that and have always said Spielman's biggest mistake was lack of contingency at QB all the way back to when Favre was here. You have a 40+ year old QB and don't draft anyone? Crazy. I even used the RG3/Cousins example a few times as an example of proper draft strategy.

If you exclude Joe Webb, who was really meant to play WR, the ONLY backup Spielman's drafted is John David Booty. Everyone else was either UDFAs (Thigpen, Heinicke, Sloter, etc) or need based 1st rounders.

All that said, there were some funky things along the way, like with Ponder where we didn't know if there would be a season. Or Teddy's freak injury and Rick's ability to dodge a bullet in passing on Manziel who many wanted.

Rick definitely could have had a better draft strategy at QB that possibly could have prevented our predicament but after last year, I understand going all in on Cousins. While QB and OL are questionable, Rick has assembled quite a roster everywhere else. Which is why this year's draft was so tough and something I can't let go. He literally got this roster 90% of the way and then proceeded to fall on his face right before the finish line. It's baffling.

It's Rick! For all his strengths, he can't seem to get out of his own way.

Good post, Landon.

[PurpleMustReign]

He also sent high picks to Philly for Bradford... Which was a needed move but Bradford isn't even playing in the league right now.

The first round pick spent on Bradford was included in the three I mentioned, although I think that trade also cost them a 3rd round pick.

OH I see. Either way... Thsts a lot of first round picks that didn't work out.

[808vikingsfan]

Wilson is arguably a top 3 QB in the NFC, top 5 for sure. It's a travesty he got snubbed for Rodgers. He would certainly elevate the offense but a Wilson would never be available on the market. Even a guy like Cousins (top 10-15) is a rare occurrence.

So the Vikings had to overpay to get a decent QB. That's just the way it is. The problem was Rick's inability to realize Cousins would need help and can't work with a patchwork line.

Well stated

Just proving a point that Cousins deficiencies are a problem on THIS team. So to answer your question Negotiator, Yes, another qb would make a difference on this team. Even a Foles or Keenum would elevate this team. Don't like Cousin's head space. I think a lot will be answered Sunday. I hope he proves me wrong.

[808vikingsfan]

I know I'm a broken record but I think the major issue is Cousins deficiencies. You put Russell Wilson on this team and the OL will look much better, the running game will be more effective, the defense would resemble last year. Wilson would take this team to another level. . Yeah, I got a man crush.

Wilson is arguably a top 3 QB in the NFC, top 5 for sure. It's a travesty he got snubbed for Rodgers. He would certainly elevate the offense but a Wilson would never be available on the market. Even a guy like Cousins (top 10-15) is a rare occurrence.

So the Vikings had to overpay to get a decent QB. That's just the way it is. The problem was Rick's inability to realize Cousins would need help and can't work with a patchwork line.

Watching the Broncos game, man, I miss Keenum. He's a fighter. I'm sure there are a lot of QBs in this league that could've won at least 8 games on this team. Doesn't have to be Wilson but he's at the top of the list.

My fear with Cousins. Even with a good OL, he'll still struggle when it matters. His record against winning teams and prime time games can't just be a coincidence. Really reminds me of Ponder under pressure.

[PurpleKoolaid]

I know I'm a broken record but I think the major issue is Cousins deficiencies. You put Russell Wilson on this team and the OL will look much better, the running game will be more effective, the defense would resemble last year. Wilson would take this team to another level. . Yeah, I got a man crush.

Wilson is arguably a top 3 QB in the NFC, top 5 for sure. It's a travesty he got snubbed for Rodgers. He would certainly elevate the offense but a Wilson would never be available on the market. Even a guy like Cousins (top 10-15) is a rare occurrence.

So the Vikings had to overpay to get a decent QB. That's just the way it is. The problem was Rick's inability to realize Cousins would need help and can't work with a patchwork line.

This is the second time Rick has done this type of crap move that just leaves us another 2-3 years behind again. He did the same thing with Bradford. I hated that move and I hated the Cousins move. Some people act like Case would have just forgotten everything he just did as a Viking. What kind of GM over pays a QB that much, and doesnt realize the guy is almost imobile? With ur Oline. I just cant believe it.

Thats what Rick thought when he over paid for the QB who had only beaten 4(?) winning teams in his career. I want Rick gone. That ticks off some people but I cant help that. Nor can I help when someone wants to goad me. Im not going to sit back like they are right. The Vikings are too important to me.

[The negotiator]

Wilson is arguably a top 3 QB in the NFC, top 5 for sure. It's a travesty he got snubbed for Rodgers. He would certainly elevate the offense but a Wilson would never be available on the market. Even a guy like Cousins (top 10-15) is a rare occurrence.

So the Vikings had to overpay to get a decent QB. That's just the way it is. The problem was Rick's inability to realize Cousins would need help and can't work with a patchwork line.

This is the second time Rick has done this type of crap move that just leaves us another 2-3 years behind again. He did the same thing with Bradford. I hated that move and I hated the Cousins move. Some people act like Case would have just forgotten everything he just did as a Viking. What kind of GM over pays a QB that much, and doesnt realize the guy is almost imobile? With ur Oline. I just cant believe it.

Thats what Rick thought when he over paid for the QB who had only beaten 4(?) winning teams in his career. I want Rick gone. That ticks off some people but I cant help that. Nor can I help when someone wants to goad me. Im not going to sit back like they are right. The Vikings are too important to me.

I can understand how you feel Mike and Tom. A new qb has to earn your loyalty through performance and wins.
I respect your passion about Keenum. I had fun watching the few games I got to see him play. It’s what makes us all fans of the game and having our favorites. I wish Keenum nothing but the best with the Broncos. I only know what I’ve watched over the last ten years. I hope over the next couple of years the Vikings as a team can make a deep run. I hope we can agree on that. Merry Christmas to all.
A lot going on in the world right now and I know our family has a lot to be thankful for.

[purplehaze]

The hail mary before the half was beyond huge in the change of momentum in this game. Lions were dominating us in every aspect before that play. And we are lucky they did not call offensive pass interference on Robinson for his push off in the endzone. Helps that Rudolph is 6'6" also. Oh well I will take the win we looked great in 2nd half. Defense kept us in the game like always.

[Raptorman]

Wilson is arguably a top 3 QB in the NFC, top 5 for sure. It's a travesty he got snubbed for Rodgers. He would certainly elevate the offense but a Wilson would never be available on the market. Even a guy like Cousins (top 10-15) is a rare occurrence.

So the Vikings had to overpay to get a decent QB. That's just the way it is. The problem was Rick's inability to realize Cousins would need help and can't work with a patchwork line.

This is the second time Rick has done this type of crap move that just leaves us another 2-3 years behind again. He did the same thing with Bradford. I hated that move and I hated the Cousins move. Some people act like Case would have just forgotten everything he just did as a Viking. What kind of GM over pays a QB that much, and doesnt realize the guy is almost imobile? With ur Oline. I just cant believe it.

Thats what Rick thought when he over paid for the QB who had only beaten 4(?) winning teams in his career. I want Rick gone. That ticks off some people but I cant help that. Nor can I help when someone wants to goad me. Im not going to sit back like they are right. The Vikings are too important to me.

So tell us, who you would have picked for the Vikings QB of the future.

[PurpleMustReign]

This is the second time Rick has done this type of crap move that just leaves us another 2-3 years behind again. He did the same thing with Bradford. I hated that move and I hated the Cousins move. Some people act like Case would have just forgotten everything he just did as a Viking. What kind of GM over pays a QB that much, and doesnt realize the guy is almost imobile? With ur Oline. I just cant believe it.

Thats what Rick thought when he over paid for the QB who had only beaten 4(?) winning teams in his career. I want Rick gone. That ticks off some people but I cant help that. Nor can I help when someone wants to goad me. Im not going to sit back like they are right. The Vikings are too important to me.

So tell us, who you would have picked for the Vikings QB of the future.

Is this a serious question?

[StumpHunter]

I know a lot of people are complaining about how the offense started and it was pretty terrible. However, I don't see it as a problem. Sometimes when a game starts the plan doesn't work. It's super encouraging to see the offense make adjustments and turn it around. I could complain about Cousins but that's silly at this point. Salary aside Cousins isnt a "great" qb but he's good enough if he doesn't have to carry the team. He performed as expected. Not great, not terrible.

The defense was terrific and held up until the offense finally figured themselves out. Not much else to say. Couldn't have asked for much more out of them.

Next week we'll learn if the improvement in the offense is real or we just played Miami and Detroit (which the 'old' offense beat too). Here's hoping!

My big concern about the slow start is that against a better team, 4 drives like that would have put the vikings in a hole they couldnt have gotten out of. I also dont know if there were adjustments made that got things figured out, or if the Lions quit after the first TD was scored.