No longer unbeaten

Last Sunday, the previously undefeated Vikings fell to the Steelers, 27-17 following a highly controversial "tripping" call on Jeff Dugan during a touchdown pass from Favre to Sidney Rice. Here is a link to the video on youtube. The tripping call is followed three plays later by Farve being stripped of the ball and Lamar Woodley taking it back for a TD. On the next Viking drive, Farve threw a short pass to Chester Taylor, who dropped the ball in to the defender's arms as if he had butter on his gloves. The defender also returned for a touchdown. The Vikings fate was sealed after this play and everyone knew it.

The media laid the blame on Farve for the loss, owing to his fumble and interception. I however, would split the blame between the blown call (come on, use instant replay on penalties that determine games!) and head coach Brad Childress. Chilly, you have a lot to learn. You have the best running back in the history of football! Give him more than 18 carries per game! Farve, 50 throws? You've got to be kidding me! Split up the play-calling so that Peterson gets between 25 and 35 carries per game!

What you have to do is get some new plays and use them! Try some reverses to Harvin or half-back options, please, make it interesting. To maximize Peterson's talent give him some different looks, pitches to the outside or screens, and for crying out loud, leave him in for third down. I know Chester Taylor is good, but Peterson is better at short yardage and in every other aspect of the running game. All in all, the Vikings are doing great, but they still have a ways to go to win the Super Bowl.