tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77622494444247891932024-03-07T21:35:55.542-08:00Christopher JChristopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.comBlogger294125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-11144805354824558072023-04-08T18:18:00.001-07:002023-04-08T18:18:25.281-07:00The Best 50 New York Yankees of All TimeThe best 50 New York Yankees in history
Trying to rank the best Yankee players in franchise history isn't easy. The top four are pretty obvious, but placing the others is not. There are a number of variables to look at, including length of service, career statistics, single season records, individual awards, and contributions to championship teams.
Taking all those factors in account, below are the best fifty players to wear the pinstripes:
50) Allie Reynolds, P: "SuperChief" had a 131-60 record, a .686 winning percentage, with a 3.30 ERA and 27 shutouts during his eight years with the team, 1947-1954.
49) Frank Crosetti, SS: Crosetti played 1,516 games at shortstop in 17 years. A member of six World Championship teams in the 1930's and early 1940's, he led American League shortstops with .968 fielding percentage in 1939. His 792 walks rank tenth all-time on the Yankees.
48) Clete Boyer, 3B: An excellent fielder who led the American League's third basemen in range factor each season from 1961-66, Boyer appeared in 1,068 games during eight years with the Yankees.
47) Waite Hoyt, SP: A 157-98 record - a .616 winning percentage - and 15 shutouts as a starter from 1921-1930 lands Hoyt among the best Yankees of all time.
46) Bob Shawkey, P: A 168-131 record with a 3.12 ERA and 26 shutouts from 1915-1927 places Shawkey among the best Yankee starting pitchers in their history.
45) Herb Pennock, SP: From 1923-1933 Pennock posted a 162-90 record, a .643 winning percentage, along with 19 shutouts as a starting pitcher. He also had a 5-0 record with a 1.95 ERA in five World Series games.
44) Reggie Jackson, OF: In 653 games in his five years with the team Jackson batted .281 with 144 home runs and 461 RBI's, although his true value was in October when he batted .328 with 12 homers and 29 RBI's in 34 post season games, contributing to world championships in 1977 and 1978.
43) Robinson Cano, 2B: During nine years and 1,374 games in pinstripes Cano hit .309 with 204 homers and 822 RBI's. He was five time All Star and a Gold Glove winner in 2010.
42) Red Rolfe, 3B: Playing his entire ten years, 1,175 games, in the majors with the Yankees, Rolfe was a member of five world championship teams in the 1930's and batted .289 with an on-base percentage of .360 during his career. His fielding average of .956 was higher than the league average of .943.
41) Mel Stottlemyre, P: In eleven years Stottlemyre tossed 40 shutouts, good for second in team history. A five time All Star, he compiled a 164-139 record with an outstanding 2.97 ERA while pitching for some not so good teams.
40) Dave Righetti, P: The American League Rookie of the Year in 1981 and two time All Star during eleven seasons, Righetti tossed a no-hitter in 1983 but was then converted into a closer. He ended up second in team history in saves with 224.
39) Bobby Richardson, 2B: Winner of five Gold Gloves and named to seven All Star teams, Richardson played in 1,412 games during his 12 seasons, contributing to three world championships in the late '50's and early '60's.
38) Roger Maris, OF: A three time All Star and a Gold Glove winner in 1960, in 850 games during seven years with the Yanks Maris batted .265 with 203 home runs and 547 RBI's. He won two American League MVP awards and contributed to two World Championships.
37) Joe Gordon, 2B: Gordon played 1,000 games at second base from 1938-1946, contributing to four World Championships. Named an All Star for six consecutive years, Gordon won the MVP award in 1942. He averaged .271 and hit 153 home runs and drove in 617 runs during seven seasons with the Yanks.
36) Hank Bauer, OF: Appearing in 1,196 games in right field during his 12 years with the team, Bauer hit .277 with 158 home runs and 654 RBI's in his Yankee career. He was a three time All Star, and contributed to seven World Series titles in the 1950's.
35) Bill Skowron, 1B: A five time All Star, Skowron appeared in 1,087 games during nine years with the Yankees, contributing to four championship titles in the 1950's and 1960's. He batted .294 with 165 homers and 672 RBI's.
34) Bobby Murcer, OF: Playing in 1,256 games during 13 seasons with the team, Murcer won a Gold Glove as a centerfielder in 1972, and was named to four All Star teams. He batted .278 with 175 home runs and 687 RBI's in his Yankee career.
33) Alex Rodriguez, 3B: Rodriguez was the winner of MVP awards in 2005 and 2007. During twelve seasons and 1,509 games with the Yankees, he had a .283 batting average, 351 home runs, and 1,096 RBI’s.
32) Tino Martinez, 1B: Playing in 1,054 games in seven years, Martinez drove in over 100 runs in five of those seasons. A key member of four World Championship teams, he averaged .276, hit 192 home runs, and drove in 739 runs in his Yankee career.
31) Dave Winfield, OF: Playing in 1,172 games during nine years in New York, Winfield was named to eight All Star games and won five Gold Gloves. He batted .290 with 205 home runs and 818 RBI's in his Yankee career.
30) Rich Gossage, P: In seven years with the Yanks Gossage had a 42-28 record with 151 saves and a 2.14 ERA. A four time All Star, he struck out 512 batters in 533 innings and held opponents to a .207 batting average.
29) Sparky Lyle, P: Winner of the 1977 Cy Young award, Lyle saved 141 games and had a 2.41 ERA in his seven years with the team. A three time All Star, he was an important contributor to the team's championship seasons in the 1970's.
28) Tommy Heinrich, OF: A five time All Star, contributing to four World Series championships in the late 1930's and 1940's, Heinrich batted .282 with 183 homers and 795 RBI's in 1,284 games during his eleven year Yankee career.
27) Charlie Keller, OF: A five time All Star, Keller played in 1,066 games during eleven seasons with the Yankees, from 1939-1949. Batted .286 with 184 homers and 723 RBI's. His on-base percentage of .410 ranks fourth in team history, and he is eighth with a .518 slugging percentage. Keller also drove in 18 runs in 19 World Series games, contributing to three titles.
26) Paul O'Neill, OF: Playing in 1,254 games during his nine years with the Yankees, O'Neill batted .303 with 185 home runs and 858 runs batted in. A four time All Star, he was a key member of four World Championship teams.
25) Lefty Gomez, P: A seven time All Star, Gomez had a 189-101 record in 13 years with the Yankees, for a winning percentage of .652. He is fourth among pitchers with 28 shutouts. Gomez shined in the World Series, with a 6-0 record and 2.86 ERA., contributing to five World Championships in the 1930's.
24) Elston Howard, C: A nine time All Star and winner of the 1963 American League MVP award, Howard played in 1,492 games in 13 years with the Yanks. He batted .279, hitting 161 home runs and driving in 733 runs while contributing to four World Championships in the 1950's and 1960's.
23) Bob Meusel, OF: Playing in a total of 1,294 games in ten years Meusel contributed to three World Series titles in the 1920's. He ranks eighth all time on the Yankees with a .311 batting average; is tenth with 338 doubles; and twelfth with 1,005 RBI.
22) Andy Pettitte, P: Ranking first in team history among pitchers with 2,020 strikeouts, Petitte's Yankee career record of 219-115 gives him a winning percentage of .633. A three time All Star in 15 seasons, he was a member of five world championship teams.
21) Ron Guidry, P: A four time All Star, winner of the 1978 Cy Young Award, and recipient of five Gold Gloves, Guidry is third among Yankee pitchers in strikeouts with 1,778 and sixth in shutouts with 26. In 14 seasons he compiled a 170-91 career record for a winning percentage of .651 and was a key member of two World Championship teams.
20) Willie Randolph, 2B: Appearing in 1,694 games during his 13 seasons with the team, Randolph's batting average was .275 and his on-base percentage was .374. He ranks fifth in team history with 1,005 walks and third in stolen bases with 251. Contributing to the team's championship years in the late 1970's and early 1980's and a five time All Star, Randolph was also a steady defender.
19) Roy White, OF: A two time All Star, during his fifteen years with the team White delivered a number of key hits and was an important contributor to the Yankees' championship teams of 1976, 1977, and 1978. On the all-time records' lists for the Yankees White ranks seventh in games played with 1,881, eighth in walks with 934, fifth in stolen bases with 233, second in sacrifice flies with 69, and fourth in the power-speed category with a number of 189.7, behind only Jeter, Mantle, and Williams.
18) Jorge Posada, C: A five time All Star, Posada played in 1,829 games while contributing to four Yankee World Championships. In a 16 year career he batted .273 with 275 homers and 1,065 RBI's, and is seventh in Yankee history with 379 doubles.
17) Graig Nettles, 3B: A five time All Star who drove in more than 90 runs for four consecutive seasons, Nettles played in 1,535 games with the Yankees. He won two Gold Gloves for his defensive excellence, and also hit for power, belting 250 home runs with 834 RBI's during his eleven year Yankee career.
16) Phil Rizzuto, SS: The 1950 American League MVP was selected to five All Star teams. Rizzuto played in 1,647 games in 13 seasons with the Yankees. The shortstop on seven World Championship teams, he has a career batting average of .273 with an on base percentage of .351 and 149 stolen bases.
15) Earle Combs, OF: Ranks third in Yankee history with a .325 batting average, and his outstanding .397 career on base percentage is eighth all time. Ranks second all time in team history with 154 triples as well as seventh in runs scored with 1,186. Combs led the American League in hits with 231 in 1927, which is second in team history for a single season. Batting .350 in 16 World Series games and a member of three world championship teams, he played in 1,455 games during his 12 year career.
14) Tony Lazzeri, 2B: Lazzeri appeared in 1,659 games during his 12 seasons with the Yanks, averaging .293 with an on base percentage of .379. He drove in more than 100 runs in seven seasons and his total of 1,154 RBI's place him ninth on the Yankees all time list in that category. Lazzeri was a key player on five World Championship teams from 1926-1937.
13) Red Ruffing, P: A six time All Star, Ruffing's career record with the Yanks was 231-124 for a winning percentage of .651. He is second in team history with 40 shutouts, second with 3,168 innings pitched. and fourth with 1,526 strikeouts. In ten World Series games he was 7-2 with a 2.63 ERA, contributing to six World Championships in the 1930's.
12) Don Mattingly, 1B: A six time All Star, awarded nine Gold Gloves for defensive excellence, and winner of the 1985 American League MVP award, Mattingly played in 1,785 games in his 14 year career, all with the Yankees. His .307 batting average ranks ninth on the Yankees all time list. He holds the team record for sacrifice flies with 96, is fourth in doubles with 442, seventh in hits with 2,153, eighth in total bases with 3,301, tenth in runs scored with 1,007, and tenth in RBI's with 1,099.
11) Thurman Munson, C: Winner of the 1970 Rookie of the Year Award, and named the American League MVP in 1976, Munson led the Yankees to three pennants and two World Championships. A seven time All Star selection as a catcher and winner of three Gold Gloves, in his career Munson threw out 44% of baserunners attempting to steal (better than Johnny Bench's 43% and Carlton Fisk's 34%). He also hit .373 and drove in 12 runs in 16 World Series games. Munson had a .292 career batting average while playing in 1,423 games in eleven seasons, and was recognized by pitchers for his ability to call a great game.
10) Bill Dickey, C: An eleven time All Star, Dickey's .313 batting average places him seventh in Yankee history. His 1,209 RBI's rank eighth and 1,969 hits are good for ninth. In 17 years Dickey caught 1,708 games, the most in team history, while contributing to seven world championships in the 1930's and early 1940's.
9) Bernie Williams, OF: A five time All Star and winner of four Gold Gloves while playing 1,857 games in center field, Williams contributed to four World Championship titles. In Yankee history he ranks third in doubles with 449, fifth in hits with 2,336, sixth in runs scored with 1,366, sixth in RBI's with 1,257, and seventh in home runs with 287.
8) Mariano Rivera, P: The all time major league leader in saves with 652, Rivera was 82-60 with a 2.21 ERA during the regular season. A 13 time All Star and member of five World Championship teams, he pitched 141 innings in 96 post season games, with an 8-1 record, 42 saves and 0.70 ERA.
7) Yogi Berra, C: Selected to the All Star team 15 times in his 18 years with the Yankees, Berra contributed to 10 World Championships in the late 1940's, 1950's and early 1960's. He caught 1,699 games, and his 358 home runs and 1,430 RBI's each rank fifth in team history. Berra also won three American League MVP awards.
6) Derek Jeter, SS: A fourteen time All Star, winner of five Gold Gloves, and a member of five World Championship teams, Jeter is the only Yankee with at least 3,000 hits, totaling 3,465. He also holds Yankee records in games played with 2,747 and stolen bases with 358. Jeter's 544 doubles rank second in team history; 1,923 runs scored are third; 1,082 walks are fourth; 1,311 RBI’s are sixth; and .310 career batting average places him eighth.
5) Whitey Ford, P: With a 236-106 record - a .690 winning percentage - Ford is not only the Yankees all time leader in wins, but also innings pitched with 3,170, games started with 438, and second in strikeouts with 1,956. An eight time All Star and winner of the 1961 Cy Young award, he had a 2.75 ERA in the regular season and 2.71 ERA in 22 World Series games, contributing to six World Championships.
4) Mickey Mantle, OF: A 16 time All Star selection, the American League Triple Crown winner in 1956, a three time league MVP, and winner of a Gold Glove in 1962, Mantle played 2,401 games. He led American League centerfielders in assists with 14 in 1952 and 20 in 1954, and his .995 fielding percentage led all centerfielders in 1955 and 1959. Mantle hit .298 with 536 home runs and 1,509 RBI's in 18 years with the Yankees, contributing to seven World Championships. The Hall of Famer holds a number of World Series batting records including the most home runs with 18, RBI's with 40, runs scored with 42, and walks with 43.
3) Joe DiMaggio, OF: Despite missing three seasons while serving in the military during World War II, DiMaggio still ranks in the Yankees' top ten in most batting categories. He is third with a .325 batting average, third in RBI's with 1,537, third in triples with 131, third in slugging percentage at .579, fourth in home runs with 361, fifth in runs scored with 1,390, and seventh in on base percentage at .398. Playing in 1,736 games, DiMaggio's .997 fielding percentage in 1947 led all American League centerfielders, and he also led in assists with 21 in 1937, 20 in 1938, and 15 in 1946. An All Star in each of his 13 seasons with the team, DiMaggio won three league MVP awards and contributed to nine Yankee World Championships.
2) Lou Gehrig, 1B: Named the American League MVP in 1927 and 1936, and winner of the Triple Crown in 1934, Gehrig played in 2,164 games during 17 years with the Yankees, leading the team to six World Championship titles in the 1920's and 1930's. In 34 World Series games he hit .361 with 10 homers and 35 RBI's. He is first in Yankee history with 534 doubles, first in triples with 163, first in RBI's with 1,995, and second in hits with 2,721. His .340 batting average, .447 on-base percentage, .632 slugging percentage, and 1,888 runs scored are second in team history.
1) Babe Ruth, OF: Playing in 2,084 games during 15 years with the Yankees (he played right field, left field, and pitcher) Ruth is first in Yankee history in a number of hitting categories, including: batting average, .349; on base percentage, .484; slugging percentage, .711; runs scored, 1,959; total bases, 5,131; home runs, 659; and walks, 1,852. He is second in RBI's with 1,971. In 36 World Series games with the team Ruth batted .348, hit 15 home runs, and had 30 RBI's. What else can you say about someone who may be the game's greatest player ever?
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-71093510381596021872023-04-08T18:07:00.003-07:002023-04-08T18:07:53.573-07:00THE BEST 62 MINNESOTA VIKINGS OF ALL TIMETHE BEST 62 MINNESOTA VIKINGS OF ALL TIME
Thirteen years ago in honor of the Minnesota Vikings 50th season, fans voted for the best 50 Vikings of all time. Longtime head coach Bud Grant was included on that list, but this one ranks only players. Being that 2022 was the 62nd season in the franchise's history, the top 62 are included here. Selection and ranking were based on longevity (seasons with the team), individual statistics and honors, the player's contribution to the team's wins, and overall team success during the player's tenure.
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62) Milt Sunde, G: a former 20th round pick named to one Pro Bowl, Sunde played in 147 games, starting 112, at left guard and right guard, including the team’s dominant season in 1969.
61) Jake Reed, WR: Reed played in 134 games and started 83 during his 10 years with the team. His 413 catches rank seventh in team history, and his 33 touchdown receptions are good for eighth.
60) Greg Coleman, P: Coleman was steady during his ten years with the team from 1977-1987, punting in 138 games, still the team record.
59) Stu Voigt, TE: Voigt was a steady tight end during his 11 years and 131 games with the team from 1970-1980, contributing during the team's Super Bowl seasons in the mid-'70's.
58) Steve Hutchinson, G: Started 89 games in six years with the team from 2006-2011, and was selected to four Pro Bowls.
57) Steve Riley, OT: A first round pick in 1974, Riley played in 138 games, starting 128, at left tackle during his 11 year career, protecting the blind side of quarterbacks Fran Tarkenton and Tommy Kramer.
56) Doug Martin, DE: A former first round pick, Martin started and ended his career with the team on controversial notes, but was a pretty good defensive lineman player from 1980-1989. He played in 126 games, starting 94, and his 60.5 sacks rank ninth in team history.
55) Ted Brown, RB: Brown played in 106 games during his eight year career with Minnesota from 1979-1986, ranking fifth on the team's rushing list with 4,546 yards and seventh in scoring with 53 touchdowns.
54) Lonnie Warwick, MLB: Warwick played in 92 games and started 75. The middle linebacker in a defense that dominated opponents' offenses in 1968, 1969, and 1970, he intercepted 12 passes, recorded 7.5 sacks and recovered 6 fumbles in his eight year career with the Vikes from 1965-1972.
53) Gene Washington, WR: Playing in 81 games in his six seasons with the Vikings from 1967-1972, Washington was named to the Pro Bowl in 1969 and 1970 and was the team's top receiver during those dominant years.
52) Fred Cox, K: The Vikings placekicker from 1963 through 1977 appeared in 210 games and is the team's all-time scoring leader with 1,365 points.
51) Dave Osborn, RB: A tough runner and reliable receiver out of the backfield, Osborn's 4,320 rushing yards rank sixth in team history. He was named to one Pro Bowl during his 11 years and 137 games with the team from 1965-1975.
50) Robert Smith, RB: A two time Pro Bowl selection, Smith played in 98 games during his eight seasons with the team from 1993-2000, rushing for 6,818 yards, second in team history.
49) Chad Greenway, LB: A two time Pro Bowl selection, Greenway played in 156 games, starting 144, in a ten year career with Minnesota from 2007-2016. He recorded 18 quarterback sacks, forced 8 fumbles and recovered 11, and intercepted 11 passes, returning two for touchdowns.
48) Tim Irwin, OT: During his 13 years with the team from 1981-1993 Irwin played in 188 games, starting 181, at right tackle. Standing at 6-7, he also blocked a few extra points and field goals while on the special teams unit.
47) Doug Sutherland, DT: Sutherland played in 138 games during his 10 years with the Vikings, starting 90 from 1971-1980. He plugged the middle of the defensive line at left tackle during the mid-1970's when the team had highly rated defenses.
46) Nate Wright, CB: A steady cornerback during the mid-1970's when the team led the league each year in many defensive categories, Wright played in 129 games, starting 89, in his ten years with the team from 1971-1980. He ranks 6th with 31 interceptions and knocked down 55 passes.
45) Adam Thielen, WR: A two-time Pro Bowl selection Thielen played in 135 games, starting 101, in nine seasons from 2014-2022. He is third in team history in receptions and touchdown catches, with 534 and 55.
44) Matt Birk, C: Birk played in 146 games and started 123 from 1998-2008, earning six Pro Bowl nods while snapping the ball at center.
43) Fred McNeil, LB: Playing in 167 games and starting 122 at outside linebacker during his 12 years with the team from 1974-1985, McNeil recovered 16 fumbles, intercepted 7 passes, and recorded 13 quarterback sacks.
42) Ed McDaniel, LB: Ranking third in tackles for loss with 90.5, McDaniel is second among Viking linebackers with 20.5 sacks and sixth on the team with 17 forced fumbles. He had 5 fumble recoveries, intercepted 4 passes and was named to the Pro Bowl once during his nine seasons and 125 games, 109 starts, with the Vikings from 1992-2001.
41) Tommy Kramer, QB: While injured often during his 13 years with the Vikes from 1977-1989, Kramer did start 110 games at quarterback and ranks second in most passing categories, including yards and touchdowns
40) John Gilliam, WR: Named to the Pro Bowl after each of his four seasons with the team, Gilliam's 20 yard average-per-reception is by far highest among Viking players with at least 100 catches.
39) Ed Sharockman, CB: A consistent defensive back on Minnesota's great defenses of the late '60's and early '70's, Sharockman played in 142 games, starting 121, during his 12 years with the team. He ranks third with 40 interceptions, returning four for touchdowns.
38) Karl Kassulke, S: Another key player on the team's outstanding defenses in the late 60's and early '70's, Kassulke played in 131 games at safety, starting 121, intercepting 19 passes. Selected to one Pro Bowl, he had 9 fumble recoveries and his 8 sacks are third among defensive backs.
37) Ed White, OG: Selected to three Pro Bowls in his eight years with the team, White played in 122 games and started 94 at guard during the team's dominant run in the early and mid-1970's.
36) Gary Zimmerman, OT: Named to four Pro Bowls in his seven years with the Vikings Zimmerman held down left tackle for 108 consecutive games during the late '80's and early 90's.
35) Wally Hilgenberg, LB: A tough outside linebacker on the Vikings' great defenses of the late 60's and throughout the 70's, Hilgenberg played in 158 games, starting 118, in 12 seasons. He recovered 13 fumbles, recorded 8 sacks, picked off 8 passes and scored two touchdowns.
34) Keith Millard, DT: Selected All-Pro and to the Pro Bowl twice, Millard was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1989 when he recorded 18 sacks. Millard was a key piece of the team's outstanding defenses in the late '80's, appearing in 75 games and starting 64 during his six years with the Vikes from 1985-1990.
33) Henry Thomas, DT: Selected to two Pro Bowls while appearing in 118 games and starting 117 in 8 years, Thomas ranks sixth in tackles-for-loss with 62. He is eleventh with 56 sacks, forced 12 fumbles, and recovered 8, returning two for touchdowns. He also had two interceptions and notched a safety.
32) Antoine Winfield, CB: Selected to three Pro Bowls during his nine years with the Vikings, he played in 119 games, starting 115. Of Winfield's 21 interceptions two were returned for touchdowns. He defensed 74 passes, which is fourth in team history, recorded 6.5 QB sacks, forced 11 fumbles and recovered 9, returning two of those for touchdowns as well.
31) Jared Allen, DE: Named to the Pro Bowl four times in his six years with the team, Allen's 88.5 sacks place him sixth in team history. He also intercepted 4 passes, forced 16 fumbles, recovered 9, and registered 4 safeties while starting all 96 games he appeared in at right end.
30) Kevin Williams, DT: A six time Pro Bowl selection, Williams started all 171 games he appeared in over 11 seasons. He ranks eighth with 60 QB sacks, knocked down 68 passes, forced 8 fumbles, and recovered 13, returning two for touchdowns. Williams also intercepted 5 passes, bring back two for scores.
29) Grady Alderman, OT: Holding down left tackle on offense for 14 years from 1961-1974, Alderman played in 193 games, starting 167, and was selected to the Pro Bowl six times.
28) Gary Larsen, DT: A member of one of the best front fours in NFL history, defensive tackle Larsen played in 135 games, starting 107, in 10 seasons for the Vikings. He recorded 37 sacks, recovered 10 fumbles, and was named to two Pro Bowls.
27) Ahmad Rashad, WR: Selected to four Pro Bowls in his seven years with the team, Rashad had 400 receptions and scored 34 touchdowns in 98 games, 94 starts. He was part of one of the most memorable plays in NFL history, catching a touchdown pass on the game's last play against the Browns in 1980.
26) Sammy White, WR: A two time Pro Bowler, White played in 128 games, starting 118, and was the team's top receiver in the late '70's, averaging 16.3 yards per catch. His 50 touchdown receptions are fifth in team history.
25) Steve Jordan, TE: A six time Pro Bowl selection, Jordan was a consistent and durable tight end, appearing in 176 games and starting 149 in 13 seasons. He had 498 receptions and scored 28 touchdowns.
24) Carl Lee, CB: Selected to three Pro Bowl and one All Pro team, Lee played in 169 games, starting 144, during 11 seasons with the team. A key player at cornerback on the team's great defenses in the late 1980's, he is the all-time leader in passes defensed with 128, recovered 6 fumbles, and is seventh with 29 interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns.
23) Bobby Bryant, CB: A playmaker at cornerback, Bryant was selected to two Pro Bowls in 13 seasons, playing in 161 games and starting 128. He is second in team history with 51 interceptions, taking back three for touchdowns, and third in passes defensed with 77. He also came up with a number of big plays in playoff games.
22) Harrison Smith, S: Named to six Pro Bowls and one All Pro team in 11 seasons from 2012-2022, Smith has played in 159 games, starting 158. He has intercepted 34 passes, fifth in Vikings history, returning four for touchdowns. He has knocked down 83 balls, second in team history, forced nine fumbles and recovered eight, and has recorded 16.5 QB sacks, first all-time among Viking defensive backs.
21) Roy Winston, LB: In 15 seasons Winston played in 191 games, starting 158 at outside linebacker on dominant Viking defenses in the late '60's and early '70's. A playmaker, he had 16 sacks, fourth among linebackers, and 14 fumble recoveries, third among linebackers, and 12 interceptions, second among linebackers, while scoring 3 touchdowns. He also is fifth all-time with 68 tackles-for-loss.
20) Bill Brown, RB: A tough runner, he is in fourth place in rushing yards with 5,757 and second with 52 touchdowns. He added 286 receptions and another 23 TD's as a receiver out of the backfield. Brown played in 180 games, starting 111, during 13 seasons from 1962-1974 and was selected four times to the Pro Bowl.
19) Scott Studwell, MLB: Fifth in team history with 201 games played, Studwell started 161 at middle linebacker and was selected to the Pro Bowl twice. He forced 12 fumbles, recovered 16, intercepted 11 passes, and had 9 QB sacks. He ranks ninth with 46 tackles-for-loss.
18) Jeff Siemon, MLB: A key player as the middle linebacker on the team's top defenses in the mid-1970's, Siemon played in 156 games, starting 123, and was selected to four Pro Bowls. He forced 14 fumbles, recovered 11, had 6 QB sacks, and 11 interceptions.
17) Anthony Carter, WR: A dynamic game-changing receiver, Carter averaged 16 yards per catch and is fourth in team history with 478 receptions, 7,636 yards and 52 touchdowns. Selected to the Pro Bowl three times, he played in 133 games and started 125 in his nine years with the team.
16) Randy Moss, WR: A five time Pro Bowl selection during his seven seasons and 113 games with Minnesota, Moss is second in team history in a number of receiving categories, including 587 receptions, 9,316 yards, and 92 touchdowns.
15) Joey Browner, S: Selected to the Pro Bowl as a safety six times in his nine seasons, Browner played in 145 games, starting 117. He is fourth in interceptions with 37, third in passes defensed with 76, fifth in forced fumbles with 18, and fifth in fumble recoveries in 17. He also recorded 9.5 QB sacks, second among Viking defensive backs, and scored 4 touchdowns.
14) Adrian Peterson, RB: After ten seasons and 123 games, Peterson holds the Viking record in rushing yards with 11,747 and is first in rushing touchdowns with 97. A seven time Pro Bowl selection.
13) Chuck Foreman, RB: An exceptional runner and receiver who could turn around a game, Foreman was selected to the Pro Bowl five times in his seven seasons in Minnesota. He rushed for 5,887 yards and 52 touchdowns, and caught 336 passes for another 23 scores.
12) Chris Doleman, DE: A six time Pro Bowl selection, Doleman played in 154 games, starting 142, in 10 seasons with the Vikings. He leads the team with 33 forced fumbles, is sixth in fumble recoveries with 16, seventh in tackles-for-loss with 60, and fifth in sacks with 96.5. He also intercepted five passes, scored two touchdowns, and recorded two safeties.
11) Matt Blair, LB: Selected to six Pro Bowls in his 12 seasons, Blair played in 160 games, starting 130. He is fourth in forced fumbles with 19, third in fumble recoveries with 20, and tenth in tackles-for-loss with 44. His 23 sacks and 16 interceptions are first among Vikings linebackers. He also blocked 20 kicks in his career.
10) Mick Tingelhoff, C: A six time Pro Bowl selection, Tingelhoff started every Viking game at center from 1962 through 1977, 240 consecutive games in all. He anchored the Vikings offensive line and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2015.
9) John Randle, DT: A standout defensive tackle who played in 176 games and started 150, Randle was named to six Pro Bowls in his 11 seasons with the Vikings. He recovered 9 fumbles, ranks third in forced fumbles with 25, and is third in QB sacks with 114. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010.
8) Ron Yary, OT: Selected to the Pro Bowl seven times in his 14 years with the Vikings, Yary played in 199 games and started 180 at right offensive tackle. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001.
7) Randall McDaniel, OG: Selected to the Pro Bowl a record 12 times in his 12 years with the Vikings, he played in 190 games, starting 188 at left guard. McDaniel was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009.
6) Paul Krause, S: The NFL's record holder for interceptions with 81, Krause is the Vikings leader in that category with 53 picks, returning two of those for touchdowns. He also recovered 11 fumbles, bringing back two for scores, and knocked down 54 passes. In 12 years with the team he played in 172 games, starting 146, and was selected to six Pro Bowls. Krause was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998.
5) Jim Marshall, DE: Starting all 270 games in which he played as a Viking at right defensive end, Marshall is second in team history with 127 sacks, first with 29 fumble recoveries, and fourth in tackle-for-loss with 74. A two time Pro Bowl selection, he deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.
4) Carl Eller, DE: The team's all-time leader in QB sacks with 130, Eller was selected to six Pro Bowls. He ranks second in tackles-for-loss with 87, second in fumble recoveries with 23, and seventh in forced fumbles with 15. He also blocked 15 kicks. Eller played in 209 games, fourth in team history, and started 201. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004, an honor that was long overdue.
3) Cris Carter, WR: Selected to 8 consecutive Pro Bowls in his 12 years with the team, Carter played in 188 games, starting 177. He holds most Viking receiving records, including 1,004 receptions, 12,383 yards, and 110 touchdowns. He ranks fourth all-time in NFL history in receptions and touchdown catches, and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2013.
2) Fran Tarkenton, QB: The Vikings record holder in most passing categories, Tarkenton played in 177 games, starting 170, and was selected to five Pro Bowls in his 13 seasons with the team. Named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1975, he is also among the leaders in league history for records among quarterbacks. Tarkenton was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1986.
1) Alan Page, DT: A defensive tackle who changed the game in the late 1960's and early 1970's, Page was named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1971. Selected to the Pro Bowl nine times in his 12 years with the Vikings, he played in 160 games and started 157. He is fourth in team history with 108.5 sacks, fourth with 18 fumble recoveries, third with 77 tackles-for-loss, and second with 28 forced fumbles. Page was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1988. He is the greatest Minnesota Viking of all time.
sources for statistics:
http://www.pro-football-reference.com/
http://min.scout.com/
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-71277723322680152552022-05-22T18:35:00.005-07:002022-05-22T18:35:34.978-07:00The 50 Best New York Yankees In HistoryThe best 50 New York Yankees in history
Trying to rank the best Yankee players in franchise history isn't easy. The top four are pretty obvious, but placing the others is not. There are a number of variables to look at, including length of service, career statistics, single season records, individual awards, and contributions to championship teams.
Taking all those factors in account, below are the best fifty players to wear the pinstripes:
50) Allie Reynolds, P: "SuperChief" had a 131-60 record, a .686 winning percentage, with a 3.30 ERA and 27 shutouts during his eight years with the team, 1947-1954.
49) Frank Crosetti, SS: Crosetti played 1,516 games at shortstop in 17 years. A member of six World Championship teams in the 1930's and early 1940's, he led American League shortstops with .968 fielding percentage in 1939. His 792 walks rank tenth all-time on the Yankees.
48) Clete Boyer, 3B: An excellent fielder who led the American League's third basemen in range factor each season from 1961-66, Boyer appeared in 1,068 games during eight years with the Yankees.
47) Waite Hoyt, SP: A 157-98 record - a .616 winning percentage - and 15 shutouts as a starter from 1921-1930 lands Hoyt among the best Yankees of all time.
46) Bob Shawkey, P: A 168-131 record with a 3.12 ERA and 26 shutouts from 1915-1927 places Shawkey among the best Yankee starting pitchers in their history.
45) Herb Pennock, SP: From 1923-1933 Pennock posted a 162-90 record, a .643 winning percentage, along with 19 shutouts as a starting pitcher. He also had a 5-0 record with a 1.95 ERA in five World Series games.
44) Reggie Jackson, OF: In 653 games in his five years with the team Jackson batted .281 with 144 home runs and 461 RBI's, although his true value was in October when he batted .328 with 12 homers and 29 RBI's in 34 post season games, contributing to world championships in 1977 and 1978.
43) Robinson Cano, 2B: During nine years and 1,374 games in pinstripes Cano hit .309 with 204 homers and 822 RBI's. He was five time All Star and a Gold Glove winner in 2010.
42) Red Rolfe, 3B: Playing his entire ten years, 1,175 games, in the majors with the Yankees, Rolfe was a member of five world championship teams in the 1930's and batted .289 with an on-base percentage of .360 during his career. His fielding average of .956 was higher than the league average of .943.
41) Mel Stottlemyre, P: In eleven years Stottlemyre tossed 40 shutouts, good for second in team history. A five time All Star, he compiled a 164-139 record with an outstanding 2.97 ERA while pitching for some not so good teams.
40) Dave Righetti, P: The American League Rookie of the Year in 1981 and two time All Star during eleven seasons, Righetti tossed a no-hitter in 1983 but was then converted into a closer. He ended up second in team history in saves with 224.
39) Bobby Richardson, 2B: Winner of five Gold Gloves and named to seven All Star teams, Richardson played in 1,412 games during his 12 seasons, contributing to three world championships in the late '50's and early '60's.
38) Roger Maris, OF: A three time All Star and a Gold Glove winner in 1960, in 850 games during seven years with the Yanks Maris batted .265 with 203 home runs and 547 RBI's. He won two American League MVP awards and contributed to two World Championships.
37) Joe Gordon, 2B: Gordon played 1,000 games at second base from 1938-1946, contributing to four World Championships. Named an All Star for six consecutive years, Gordon won the MVP award in 1942. He averaged .271 and hit 153 home runs and drove in 617 runs during seven seasons with the Yanks.
36) Hank Bauer, OF: Appearing in 1,196 games in right field during his 12 years with the team, Bauer hit .277 with 158 home runs and 654 RBI's in his Yankee career. He was a three time All Star, and contributed to seven World Series titles in the 1950's.
35) Bill Skowron, 1B: A five time All Star, Skowron appeared in 1,087 games during nine years with the Yankees, contributing to four championship titles in the 1950's and 1960's. He batted .294 with 165 homers and 672 RBI's.
34) Bobby Murcer, OF: Playing in 1,256 games during 13 seasons with the team, Murcer won a Gold Glove as a centerfielder in 1972, and was named to four All Star teams. He batted .278 with 175 home runs and 687 RBI's in his Yankee career.
33) Alex Rodriguez, 3B: Rodriguez has put up big numbers even during what were considered down years for him. Winner of three MVP awards during ten seasons and 1,444 games with the Yankees, he has a .287 batting average, 342 home runs, and 1,065 RBI’s.
32) Tino Martinez, 1B: Playing in 1,054 games in seven years, Martinez drove in over 100 runs in five of those seasons. A key member of four World Championship teams, he averaged .276, hit 192 home runs, and drove in 739 runs in his Yankee career.
31) Dave Winfield, OF: Playing in 1,172 games during nine years in New York, Winfield was named to eight All Star games and won five Gold Gloves. He batted .290 with 205 home runs and 818 RBI's in his Yankee career.
30) Rich Gossage, P: In seven years with the Yanks Gossage had a 42-28 record with 151 saves and a 2.14 ERA. A four time All Star, he struck out 512 batters in 533 innings and held opponents to a .207 batting average.
29) Sparky Lyle, P: Winner of the 1977 Cy Young award, Lyle saved 141 games and had a 2.41 ERA in his seven years with the team. A three time All Star, he was an important contributor to the team's championship seasons in the 1970's.
28) Tommy Heinrich, OF: A five time All Star, contributing to four World Series championships in the late 1930's and 1940's, Heinrich batted .282 with 183 homers and 795 RBI's in 1,284 games during his eleven year Yankee career.
27) Charlie Keller, OF: A five time All Star, Keller played in 1,066 games during eleven seasons with the Yankees, from 1939-1949. Batted .286 with 184 homers and 723 RBI's. His on-base percentage of .410 ranks fourth in team history, and he is eighth with a .518 slugging percentage. Keller also drove in 18 runs in 19 World Series games, contributing to three titles.
26) Paul O'Neill, OF: Playing in 1,254 games during his nine years with the Yankees, O'Neill batted .303 with 185 home runs and 858 runs batted in. A four time All Star, he was a key member of four World Championship teams.
25) Lefty Gomez, P: A seven time All Star, Gomez had a 189-101 record in 13 years with the Yankees, for a winning percentage of .652. He is fourth among pitchers with 28 shutouts. Gomez shined in the World Series, with a 6-0 record and 2.86 ERA., contributing to five World Championships in the 1930's.
24) Elston Howard, C: A nine time All Star and winner of the 1963 American League MVP award, Howard played in 1,492 games in 13 years with the Yanks. He batted .279, hitting 161 home runs and driving in 733 runs while contributing to four World Championships in the 1950's and 1960's.
23) Bob Meusel, OF: Playing in a total of 1,294 games in ten years Meusel contributed to three World Series titles in the 1920's. He ranks eighth all time on the Yankees with a .311 batting average; is tenth with 338 doubles; and twelfth with 1,005 RBI.
22) Andy Pettitte, P: Ranking first in team history among pitchers with 2,020 strikeouts, Petitte's Yankee career record of 219-115 gives him a winning percentage of .633. A three time All Star in 15 seasons, he was a member of five world championship teams.
21) Ron Guidry, P: A four time All Star, winner of the 1978 Cy Young Award, and recipient of five Gold Gloves, Guidry is third among Yankee pitchers in strikeouts with 1,778 and sixth in shutouts with 26. In 14 seasons he compiled a 170-91 career record for a winning percentage of .651 and was a key member of two World Championship teams.
20) Willie Randolph, 2B: Appearing in 1,694 games during his 13 seasons with the team, Randolph's batting average was .275 and his on-base percentage was .374. He ranks fifth in team history with 1,005 walks and third in stolen bases with 251. Contributing to the team's championship years in the late 1970's and early 1980's and a five time All Star, Randolph was also a steady defender.
19) Roy White, OF: A two time All Star, during his fifteen years with the team White delivered a number of key hits and was an important contributor to the Yankees' championship teams of 1976, 1977, and 1978. On the all-time records' lists for the Yankees White ranks seventh in games played with 1,881, eighth in walks with 934, fifth in stolen bases with 233, second in sacrifice flies with 69, and fourth in the power-speed category with a number of 189.7, behind only Jeter, Mantle, and Williams.
18) Jorge Posada, C: A five time All Star, Posada played in 1,829 games while contributing to four Yankee World Championships. In a 16 year career he batted .273 with 275 homers and 1,065 RBI's, and is seventh in Yankee history with 379 doubles.
17) Graig Nettles, 3B: A five time All Star who drove in more than 90 runs for four consecutive seasons, Nettles played in 1,535 games with the Yankees. He won two Gold Gloves for his defensive excellence, and also hit for power, belting 250 home runs with 834 RBI's during his eleven year Yankee career.
16) Phil Rizzuto, SS: The 1950 American League MVP was selected to five All Star teams. Rizzuto played in 1,647 games in 13 seasons with the Yankees. The shortstop on seven World Championship teams, he has a career batting average of .273 with an on base percentage of .351 and 149 stolen bases.
15) Earle Combs, OF: Ranks third in Yankee history with a .325 batting average, and his outstanding .397 career on base percentage is eighth all time. Ranks second all time in team history with 154 triples as well as seventh in runs scored with 1,186. Combs led the American League in hits with 231 in 1927, which is second in team history for a single season. Batting .350 in 16 World Series games and a member of three world championship teams, he played in 1,455 games during his 12 year career.
14) Tony Lazzeri, 2B: Lazzeri appeared in 1,659 games during his 12 seasons with the Yanks, averaging .293 with an on base percentage of .379. He drove in more than 100 runs in seven seasons and his total of 1,154 RBI's place him ninth on the Yankees all time list in that category. Lazzeri was a key player on five World Championship teams from 1926-1937.
13) Red Ruffing, P: A six time All Star, Ruffing's career record with the Yanks was 231-124 for a winning percentage of .651. He is second in team history with 40 shutouts, second with 3,168 innings pitched. and fourth with 1,526 strikeouts. In ten World Series games he was 7-2 with a 2.63 ERA, contributing to six World Championships in the 1930's.
12) Don Mattingly, 1B: A six time All Star, awarded nine Gold Gloves for defensive excellence, and winner of the 1985 American League MVP award, Mattingly played in 1,785 games in his 14 year career, all with the Yankees. His .307 batting average ranks ninth on the Yankees all time list. He holds the team record for sacrifice flies with 96, is fourth in doubles with 442, seventh in hits with 2,153, eighth in total bases with 3,301, tenth in runs scored with 1,007, and tenth in RBI's with 1,099.
11) Thurman Munson, C: Winner of the 1970 Rookie of the Year Award, and named the American League MVP in 1976, Munson led the Yankees to three pennants and two World Championships. A seven time All Star selection as a catcher and winner of three Gold Gloves, in his career Munson threw out 44% of baserunners attempting to steal (better than Johnny Bench's 43% and Carlton Fisk's 34%). He also hit .373 and drove in 12 runs in 16 World Series games. Munson had a .292 career batting average while playing in 1,423 games in eleven seasons, and was recognized by pitchers for his ability to call a great game.
10) Bill Dickey, C: An eleven time All Star, Dickey's .313 batting average places him seventh in Yankee history. His 1,209 RBI's rank eighth and 1,969 hits are good for ninth. In 17 years Dickey caught 1,708 games, the most in team history, while contributing to seven world championships in the 1930's and early 1940's.
9) Bernie Williams, OF: A five time All Star and winner of four Gold Gloves while playing 1,857 games in center field, Williams contributed to four World Championship titles. In Yankee history he ranks third in doubles with 449, fifth in hits with 2,336, sixth in runs scored with 1,366, sixth in RBI's with 1,257, and seventh in home runs with 287.
8) Mariano Rivera, P: The all time major league leader in saves with 652, Rivera was 82-60 with a 2.21 ERA during the regular season. A 13 time All Star and member of five World Championship teams, he pitched 141 innings in 96 post season games, with an 8-1 record, 42 saves and 0.70 ERA.
7) Yogi Berra, C: Selected to the All Star team 15 times in his 18 years with the Yankees, Berra contributed to 10 World Championships in the late 1940's, 1950's and early 1960's. He caught 1,699 games, and his 358 home runs and 1,430 RBI's each rank fifth in team history. Berra also won three American League MVP awards.
6) Derek Jeter, SS: A fourteen time All Star, winner of five Gold Gloves, and a member of five World Championship teams, Jeter is the only Yankee with at least 3,000 hits, totaling 3,465. He also holds Yankee records in games played with 2,747 and stolen bases with 358. Jeter's 544 doubles rank second in team history; 1,923 runs scored are third; 1,082 walks are fourth; 1,311 RBI’s are sixth; and .310 career batting average places him eighth.
5) Whitey Ford, P: With a 236-106 record - a .690 winning percentage - Ford is not only the Yankees all time leader in wins, but also innings pitched with 3,170, games started with 438, and second in strikeouts with 1,956. An eight time All Star and winner of the 1961 Cy Young award, he had a 2.75 ERA in the regular season and 2.71 ERA in 22 World Series games, contributing to six World Championships.
4) Mickey Mantle, OF: A 16 time All Star selection, the American League Triple Crown winner in 1956, a three time league MVP, and winner of a Gold Glove in 1962, Mantle played 2,401 games. He led American League centerfielders in assists with 14 in 1952 and 20 in 1954, and his .995 fielding percentage led all centerfielders in 1955 and 1959. Mantle hit .298 with 536 home runs and 1,509 RBI's in 18 years with the Yankees, contributing to seven World Championships. The Hall of Famer holds a number of World Series batting records including the most home runs with 18, RBI's with 40, runs scored with 42, and walks with 43.
3) Joe DiMaggio, OF: Despite missing three seasons while serving in the military during World War II, DiMaggio still ranks in the Yankees' top ten in most batting categories. He is third with a .325 batting average, third in RBI's with 1,537, third in triples with 131, third in slugging percentage at .579, fourth in home runs with 361, fifth in runs scored with 1,390, and seventh in on base percentage at .398. Playing in 1,736 games, DiMaggio's .997 fielding percentage in 1947 led all American League centerfielders, and he also led in assists with 21 in 1937, 20 in 1938, and 15 in 1946. An All Star in each of his 13 seasons with the team, DiMaggio won three league MVP awards and contributed to nine Yankee World Championships.
2) Lou Gehrig, 1B: Named the American League MVP in 1927 and 1936, and winner of the Triple Crown in 1934, Gehrig played in 2,164 games during 17 years with the Yankees, leading the team to six World Championship titles in the 1920's and 1930's. In 34 World Series games he hit .361 with 10 homers and 35 RBI's. He is first in Yankee history with 534 doubles, first in triples with 163, first in RBI's with 1,995, and second in hits with 2,721. His .340 batting average, .447 on-base percentage, .632 slugging percentage, and 1,888 runs scored are second in team history.
1) Babe Ruth, OF: Playing in 2,084 games during 15 years with the Yankees (he played right field, left field, and pitcher) Ruth is first in Yankee history in a number of hitting categories, including: batting average, .349; on base percentage, .484; slugging percentage, .711; runs scored, 1,959; total bases, 5,131; home runs, 659; and walks, 1,852. He is second in RBI's with 1,971. In 36 World Series games with the team Ruth batted .348, hit 15 home runs, and had 30 RBI's. What else can you say about someone who may be the game's greatest player ever?
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-69234047147068109512022-05-20T10:32:00.003-07:002022-05-22T18:36:08.568-07:00The Best Minnesota Vikings In HistoryTwelve years ago in honor of the Minnesota Vikings 50th season, fans voted for the best 50 Vikings of all time. Longtime head coach Bud Grant was included on that list, but this one ranks only players. Being that 2021 was the 61st season in the franchise's history, the top 61 are included here. Selection and ranking were based on longevity (seasons with the team), individual statistics and honors, the player's contribution to the team's wins, and overall team success during the player's tenure.
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61) Milt Sunde, G: a former 20th round pick named to one Pro Bowl, Sunde played in 147 games, starting 112, at left guard and right guard, including the team’s dominant season in 1969.
60) Jake Reed, WR: Reed played in 134 games and started 83 during his 10 years with the team. His 413 catches rank fourth in team history, and his 33 touchdown receptions are good for sixth.
59) Greg Coleman, P: Coleman was steady during his ten years with the team from 1977-1987, punting in 138 games, still the team record.
58) Stu Voigt, TE: Voigt was a steady tight end during his 11 years and 131 games with the team from 1970-1980, contributing during the team's Super Bowl seasons in the mid-'70's.
57) Steve Hutchinson, G: Started 89 games in six years with the team from 2006-2011, and was selected to four Pro Bowls.
56) Steve Riley, OT: A first round pick in 1974, Riley played in 138 games, starting 128, at left tackle during his 11 year career, protecting the blind side of quarterbacks Fran Tarkenton and Tommy Kramer.
55) Doug Martin, DE: A former first round pick, Martin started and ended his career with the team on controversial notes, but was a pretty good defensive lineman player from 1980-1989. He played in 126 games, starting 94, and his 60.5 sacks rank ninth in team history.
54) Ted Brown, RB: Brown played in 106 games during his eight year career with Minnesota from 1979-1986, ranking fifth on the team's rushing list with 4,546 yards and seventh in scoring with 53 touchdowns.
53) Lonnie Warwick, MLB: Warwick played in 92 games and started 75. The middle linebacker in a defense that dominated opponents' offenses in 1968, 1969, and 1970, he intercepted 12 passes, recorded 7.5 sacks and recovered 6 fumbles in his eight year career with the Vikes from 1965-1972.
52) Gene Washington, WR: Playing in 81 games in his six seasons with the Vikings from 1967-1972, Washington was named to the Pro Bowl in 1969 and 1970 and was the team's top receiver during those dominant years.
51) Fred Cox, K: The Vikings placekicker from 1963 through 1977 appeared in 210 games and is the team's all-time scoring leader with 1,365 points.
50) Dave Osborn, RB: A tough runner and reliable receiver out of the backfield, Osborn's 4,320 rushing yards rank sixth in team history. He was named to one Pro Bowl during his 11 years and 137 games with the team from 1965-1975.
49) Robert Smith, RB: A two time Pro Bowl selection, Smith played in 98 games during his eight seasons with the team from 1993-2000, rushing for 6,818 yards, second in team history.
48) Chad Greenway, LB: A two time Pro Bowl selection, Greenway played in 156 games, starting 144, in a ten year career with Minnesota from 2007-2016. He recorded 18 quarterback sacks, forced 8 fumbles and recovered 11, and intercepted 11 passes, returning two for touchdowns.
47) Doug Sutherland, DT: Sutherland played in 138 games during his 10 years with the Vikings, starting 90 from 1971-1980. He plugged the middle of the defensive line at left tackle during the mid-1970's when the team had highly rated defenses.
46) Nate Wright, CB: A steady cornerback during the mid-1970's when the team led the league each year in many defensive categories, Wright played in 129 games, starting 89, in his ten years with the team from 1971-1980. He ranks 5th with 31 interceptions and knocked down 55 passes.
45) Tim Irwin, OT: During his 13 years with the team from 1981-1993 Irwin played in 188 games, starting 181, at right tackle. Standing at 6-7, he also blocked a few extra points and field goals while on the special teams unit.
44) Matt Birk, C: Birk played in 146 games and started 123 from 1998-2008, earning six Pro Bowl nods while snapping the ball at center.
43) Tommy Kramer, QB: While injured often during his 13 years with the Vikes from 1977-1989, Kramer did start 110 games at quarterback and ranks second in most passing categories, including yards and touchdowns.
42) Fred McNeil, LB: Playing in 167 games and starting 122 at outside linebacker during his 12 years with the team from 1974-1985, McNeil recovered 16 fumbles, intercepted 7 passes, and recorded 13 quarterback sacks.
41) Ed McDaniel, LB: Ranking third in tackles for loss with 90.5, McDaniel is second among Viking linebackers with 20.5 sacks and sixth on the team with 17 forced fumbles. He had 5 fumble recoveries, intercepted 4 passes and was named to the Pro Bowl once during his nine seasons and 125 games, 109 starts, with the Vikings from 1992-2001.
40) John Gilliam, WR: Named to the Pro Bowl after each of his four seasons with the team, Gilliam's 20 yard average-per-reception is by far highest among Viking players with at least 100 catches.
39) Ed Sharockman, CB: A consistent defensive back on Minnesota's great defenses of the late '60's and early '70's, Sharockman played in 142 games, starting 121, during his 12 years with the team. He ranks third with 40 interceptions, returning four for touchdowns.
38) Karl Kassulke, S: Another key player on the team's outstanding defenses in the late 60's and early '70's, Kassulke played in 131 games at safety, starting 121, intercepting 19 passes. Selected to one Pro Bowl, he had 9 fumble recoveries and his 8 sacks are third among defensive backs.
37) Ed White, OG: Selected to three Pro Bowls in his eight years with the team, White played in 122 games and started 94 at guard during the team's dominant run in the early and mid-1970's.
36) Gary Zimmerman, OT: Named to four Pro Bowls in his seven years with the Vikings Zimmerman held down left tackle for 108 consecutive games during the late '80's and early 90's.
35) Wally Hilgenberg, LB: A tough outside linebacker on the Vikings' great defenses of the late 60's and throughout the 70's, Hilgenberg played in 158 games, starting 118, in 12 seasons. He recovered 13 fumbles, recorded 8 sacks, picked off 8 passes and scored two touchdowns.
34) Keith Millard, DT: Selected All-Pro and to the Pro Bowl twice, Millard was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1989 when he recorded 18 sacks. Millard was a key piece of the team's outstanding defenses in the late '80's, appearing in 75 games and starting 64 during his six years with the Vikes from 1985-1990.
33) Henry Thomas, DT: Selected to two Pro Bowls while appearing in 118 games and starting 117 in 8 years, Thomas ranks sixth in tackles-for-loss with 62. He is eleventh with 56 sacks, forced 12 fumbles, and recovered 8, returning two for touchdowns. He also had two interceptions and notched a safety.
32) Antoine Winfield, CB: Selected to three Pro Bowls during his nine years with the Vikings, he played in 119 games, starting 115. Of Winfield's 21 interceptions two were returned for touchdowns. He defensed 74 passes, which is fourth in team history, recorded 6.5 QB sacks, forced 11 fumbles and recovered 9, returning two of those for touchdowns as well.
31) Jared Allen, DE: Named to the Pro Bowl four times in his six years with the team, Allen's 88.5 sacks place him sixth in team history. He also intercepted 4 passes, forced 16 fumbles, recovered 9, and registered 4 safeties while starting all 96 games he appeared in at right end.
30) Kevin Williams, DT: A six time Pro Bowl selection, Williams started all 171 games he appeared in over 11 seasons. He ranks eighth with 60 QB sacks, knocked down 68 passes, forced 8 fumbles, and recovered 13, returning two for touchdowns. Williams also intercepted 5 passes, bring back two for scores.
29) Harrison Smith, S: Named to six Pro Bowls and one All Pro team in ten seasons from 2012-2021, Smith has played in 145 games, starting 144. He has intercepted 29 passes, tied for sixth in Vikings history, returning four for touchdowns. He has knocked down 73 balls, forced eight fumbles and recovered eight, and has recorded 16.5 QB sacks, first all-time among Viking defensive backs.
28) Grady Alderman, OT: Holding down left tackle on offense for 14 years from 1961-1974, Alderman played in 193 games, starting 167, and was selected to the Pro Bowl six times.
27) Gary Larsen, DT: A member of one of the best front fours in NFL history, defensive tackle Larsen played in 135 games, starting 107, in 10 seasons for the Vikings. He recorded 37 sacks, recovered 10 fumbles, and was named to two Pro Bowls.
26) Ahmad Rashad, WR: Selected to four Pro Bowls in his seven years with the team, Rashad had 400 receptions and scored 34 touchdowns in 98 games, 94 starts. He was part of one of the most memorable plays in NFL history, catching a touchdown pass on the game's last play against the Browns in 1980.
25) Sammy White, WR: A two time Pro Bowler, White played in 128 games, starting 118, and was the team's top receiver in the late '70's, averaging 16.3 yards per catch. His 50 touchdown receptions are fourth in team history.
24) Steve Jordan, TE: A six time Pro Bowl selection, Jordan was a consistent and durable tight end, appearing in 176 games and starting 149 in 13 seasons. He had 498 receptions and scored 28 touchdowns.
23) Carl Lee, CB: Selected three times to the Pro Bowl, Lee played in 169 games, starting 144, during 11 seasons with the team. A key player at cornerback on the team's great defenses in the late 1980's, he is the all-time leader in passes defensed with 128, recovered 6 fumbles, and is sixth with 29 interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns.
22) Roy Winston, LB: In 15 seasons Winston played in 191 games, starting 158 at outside linebacker on dominant Viking defenses in the late '60's and early '70's. A playmaker, he had 16 sacks, fourth among linebackers and 14 fumble recoveries, third among linebackers, and 12 interceptions, second among linebackers, while scoring 3 touchdowns. He also is fifth all-time with 68 tackles-for-loss.
21) Bill Brown, RB: A tough runner, he is in fourth place in rushing yards with 5,757 and second with 52 touchdowns. He added 286 receptions and another 23 TD's as a receiver out of the backfield. Brown played in 180 games during 13 seasons and was selected four times to the Pro Bowl.
20) Bobby Bryant, CB: A playmaker at cornerback, Bryant was selected to two Pro Bowls in 13 seasons, playing in 161 games and starting 128. He is second in team history with 51 interceptions, taking back three for touchdowns, and second in passes defensed with 77. He also came up with a number of big plays in playoff games.
19) Scott Studwell, MLB: Fifth in team history with 201 games played, Studwell started 161 at middle linebacker and was selected to the Pro Bowl twice. He forced 12 fumbles, recovered 16, intercepted 11 passes, and had 9 QB sacks. He ranks ninth with 46 tackles-for-loss.
18) Jeff Siemon, MLB: A key player as the middle linebacker on the team's top defenses in the mid-1970's, Siemon played in 156 games, starting 123, and was selected to four Pro Bowls. He forced 14 fumbles, recovered 11, had 6 QB sacks, and 11 interceptions.
17) Anthony Carter, WR: A dynamic game-changing receiver, Carter averaged 16 yards per catch and is third in team history with 478 receptions, 7,636 yards and 52 touchdowns. Selected to the Pro Bowl three times, he played in 133 games and started 125 in his nine years with the team.
16) Randy Moss, WR: A five time Pro Bowl selection during his seven seasons and 113 games with Minnesota, Moss is second in team history in a number of receiving categories, including 587 receptions, 9,316 yards, and 92 touchdowns.
15) Joey Browner, S: Selected to the Pro Bowl as a safety six times in his nine seasons, Browner played in 145 games, starting 117. He is fourth in interceptions with 37, third in passes defensed with 76, fifth in forced fumbles with 18, and fifth in fumble recoveries in 17. He also recorded 9.5 QB sacks, second among Viking defensive backs, and scored 4 touchdowns.
14) Adrian Peterson, RB: After ten seasons and 123 games, Peterson holds the Viking record in rushing yards with 11,747 and is first in rushing touchdowns with 97. A seven time Pro Bowl selection.
13) Chuck Foreman, RB: An exceptional runner and receiver who could turn around a game, Foreman was selected to the Pro Bowl five times in his seven seasons in Minnesota. He rushed for 5,887 yards and 52 touchdowns, and caught 336 passes for another 23 scores.
12) Chris Doleman, DE: A six time Pro Bowl selection, Doleman played in 154 games, starting 142, in 10 seasons with the Vikings. He leads the team with 33 forced fumbles, is sixth in fumble recoveries with 16, seventh in tackles-for-loss with 60, and fifth in sacks with 96.5. He also intercepted five passes, scored two touchdowns, and recorded two safeties.
11) Matt Blair, LB: Selected to six Pro Bowls in his 12 seasons, Blair played in 160 games, starting 130. He is fourth in forced fumbles with 19, third in fumble recoveries with 20, and tenth in tackles-for-loss with 44. His 23 sacks and 16 interceptions are first among Vikings linebackers. He also blocked 20 kicks in his career.
10) Mick Tingelhoff, C: A six time Pro Bowl selection, Tingelhoff started every Viking game at center from 1962 through 1977, 240 consecutive games in all. He anchored the Vikings offensive line and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2015.
9) John Randle, DT: A standout defensive tackle who played in 176 games and started 150, Randle was named to six Pro Bowls in his 11 seasons with the Vikings. He recovered 9 fumbles, ranks third in forced fumbles with 25, and is third in QB sacks with 114. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010.
8) Ron Yary, OT: Selected to the Pro Bowl seven times in his 14 years with the Vikings, Yary played in 199 games and started 180 at right offensive tackle. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001.
7) Randall McDaniel, OG: Selected to the Pro Bowl a record 12 times in his 12 years with the Vikings, he played in 190 games, starting 188 at left guard. McDaniel was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009.
6) Paul Krause, S: The NFL's record holder for interceptions with 81, Krause is the Vikings leader in that category with 53 picks, returning two of those for touchdowns. He also recovered 11 fumbles, bringing back two for scores, and knocked down 54 passes. In 12 years with the team he played in 172 games, starting 146, and was selected to six Pro Bowls. Krause was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998.
5) Jim Marshall, DE: Starting all 270 games in which he played as a Viking at right defensive end, Marshall is second in team history with 127 sacks, first with 29 fumble recoveries, and fourth in tackle-for-loss with 74. A two time Pro Bowl selection, he deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.
4) Carl Eller, DE: The team's all-time leader in QB sacks with 130, Eller was selected to six Pro Bowls. He ranks second in tackles-for-loss with 87, second in fumble recoveries with 23, and seventh in forced fumbles with 15. He also blocked 15 kicks. Eller played in 209 games, fourth in team history, and started 201. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004, an honor that was long overdue.
3) Cris Carter, WR: Selected to 8 consecutive Pro Bowls in his 12 years with the team, Carter played in 188 games, starting 177. He holds most Viking receiving records, including 1,004 receptions, 12,383 yards, and 110 touchdowns. He ranks fourth all-time in NFL history in receptions and touchdown catches, and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2013.
2) Fran Tarkenton, QB: The Vikings record holder in most passing categories, Tarkenton played in 177 games, starting 170, and was selected to five Pro Bowls in his 13 seasons with the team. Named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1975, he is also among the leaders in league history for records among quarterbacks. Tarkenton was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1986.
1) Alan Page, DT: A defensive tackle who changed the game in the late 1960's and early 1970's, Page was named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1971. Selected to the Pro Bowl nine times in his 12 years with the Vikings, he played in 160 games and started 157. He is fourth in team history with 108.5 sacks, fourth with 18 fumble recoveries, third with 77 tackles-for-loss, and second with 28 forced fumbles. Page was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1988. He is the greatest Minnesota Viking of all time.
sources for statistics:
http://www.pro-football-reference.com/
http://min.scout.com/
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-56218118265992937552020-04-16T08:37:00.002-07:002020-04-16T08:37:51.682-07:00Christopher J: The Best Head Coaches in Minnesota Vikings History...<a href="https://christopherj151515.blogspot.com/2020/04/the-best-head-coaches-in-minnesota.html?spref=bl">Christopher J: The Best Head Coaches in Minnesota Vikings History...</a>: Ranking the head coaches in Minnesota Vikings history With Mike Zimmer now the 9th head coach in the Minnesota Vikings'...Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-86547578499546408942020-04-16T08:37:00.000-07:002020-04-16T08:37:39.159-07:00The Best Head Coaches in Minnesota Vikings History<br />
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<b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ranking the head coaches in Minnesota
Vikings history <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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With Mike Zimmer now the 9th head coach in
the Minnesota Vikings' 58 year history, let's take a look at his
predecessors who have led Purple Gang in the past. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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How do they rank, from best to worst?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 1)</span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bud Grant –</span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <i>1967-1983, 1985</i> -
An easy choice for the top spot, Grant served the most games as the Vikings’
head coach, from 1967-1985. His 1994 Hall of Fame induction was long overdue;
he deserved to be enshrined within two years of his retirement in 1986. Grant’s
regular season record of 158-96-5 and winning percentage of .622 ranks 13</span><sup><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 7.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">th</span></sup><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> all-time among NFL head
coaches, ahead of Joe Gibbs, Hank Stram, and Mike Ditka. Grant’s teams won the
NFC Central Division 11 times in his 18 years. He once stated, “Offense sells
tickets but defense wins ballgames,” and his defenses were often ranked first
in the league from 1968-1977, giving up the least points and yardage of any
team. Grant’s 10-12 post-season record isn’t great, and the obvious blemish on
his credentials is the Vikes’ four Super Bowl losses. Joe Kapp, quarterback of
the 1969 team, stated that Grant didn’t have the team well-prepared to face the
Chiefs in Super Bowl IV. There was also the release of Alan Page in 1978, with
Page going on to have three more outstanding years with the Bears. Grant did
benefit from some of former general manager Jim Finks’ excellent draft choices
(outstanding players such as Carl Eller, Ron Yary, and Chuck Foreman, among
others). Still, Grant pulled it all together and the team won games, often
dominating their opponents. Successful players loved playing for Bud.<br />
<br />
<b>2) Mike Zimmer -</b> <i>2014</i> <i>- present</i> - In six years at the
helm Zimmer has a 57-38-1 record for a .599 winning
percentage. He has done a good job so far, showing that he is an excellent
judge of talent, and has put players in situations where they can succeed
(unlike Dennis Green and Brad Childress, among others). A former defensive
coordinator, his schemes and gameplans so far have worked extremely well. In
2017 Minnesota's defense ranked first in the NFL, allowing the fewest points
and the least amount of yards. The Vikings made it to the playoffs in 2015,
2017, and 2019, and have been a contending team in the NFC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 3)</span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Jerry Burns –</span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <i>1986 - 1991</i> -
Grant’s longtime offensive coordinator, sometimes credited with creating the
“West Coast offense,” Burns’ record of 52-43 and .547 winning percentage land
him in the third spot. Burns worked from 1986-1991, with a 3-3 post-season
record. The 1987 team destroyed the Saints and 49’ers in the playoffs before
Darrin Nelson’s dropped pass in the NFC championship game against the Redskins
ended the Vikes’ season. That was as close to the Super Bowl as the Vikes and
been in ten years, and as close as they would get for another eleven. The 1988
team dominated during the season with 9 players being selected to the Pro Bowl,
before losing to the 49’ers in the playoffs. Burns was sometimes criticized for
being hands-off, not wearing a head-set and delegating too much authority to
his assistant coaches, like offensive coordinator Bob Schnelker – but come on
Burnsie, even I knew when the offense lined up a certain way that there was
going to be a “shotgun draw” running play. (Ironically Schnelker, while a player,
scored the Vikings first touchdown on a pass from Fran Tarkenton in 1961).
Unfortunately Burns was also stuck with the results of owner/general manager
Mike Lynn’s ridiculous Herschel Walker trade, and also should have been named
head coach when Grant first retired in 1983 (another dumb move by Lynn, who
instead named Les Steckel head coach). Most Vikings liked playing for Burnsie,
and his teams’ success can’t be ignored.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b>4)</b></span><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dennis Green –<i> </i></span></b><i><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1992 - 2001</span></i><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> - Most fans, even his
critics, would place Green behind Grant in the number two slot on this list.
His 97-62 regular season record, a .610 winning percentage, is certainly
impressive. His first season in 1992 saw the Vikings improve to an 11-5 record,
which is definitely an accomplishment, considering the shambles the team had
been in at the end of 1991. I started to dislike Dennis in 1993 when he dumped
offensive coordinator Jack Burns and made his pal Brian Billick coordinator. As
the years went on Green surrounded himself with his cronies as assistant coaches,
a couple of which were roundly criticized by players as unqualified (see
defensive backs coach Richard Solomon). While his teams were playoff contenders
every year, Green could hardly be considered a smart judge of talent. Even
though he bragged about his “projects” they never amounted to much (offensive
lineman Bernard Daffney, defensive end James Harris, among others) and this
whole “coach’em up” concept is something I think can be silly and also annoys
me about coaches in general. Who knows why, but Green didn’t get along with
All-Pro guard Randall McDaniel, which is another thing I don’t get about
coaches who never played professionally. If the guy is a great player…what’s
your problem? Green dumped quarterbacks Rich Gannon and Brad Johnson, who both
went on to have outstanding careers and won Super Bowls with Oakland and Tampa
Bay, respectively. Instead Green chose to go with journeyman Sean Salisbury,
washed up Jim McMahon, and choker Randall Cunningham as his quarterbacks at
various points. (There’s no way Cunningham was going to repeat his 1998
performance in 1999). His drafting of defensive end Demetrius Underwood in the
first round in 1999 was absurd, and not being aware of the late Korey
Stringer’s physical condition in training camp in 2001 is inexcusable. While he
didn’t miss the kick or make any of the stupid plays that cost the Vikings the
NFC championship game against the Falcons after the 1998 season, “taking a
knee” with the league’s best offense on the field with time left on the clock before
halftime is unbelievable. Losing that game…all these years later, it’s still
too much to think about.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 5)</span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Mike Tice </span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">– <i>2001 - 2005</i><b> -
</b>Tice did a decent job with the players he had, posting a 32-33 record and
.492 winning percentage with a 1-1 playoff record that included a huge win
against the Packers in 2004. Although he did make some questionable decisions
in terms of player personnel, he probably would have gotten better with
experience if he had stayed on the job. While maybe he wasn’t the right fit for
the Vikings at the time, Tice seemed to be open with the media, and also
reminded fans to “enjoy the season.” He seemed pretty organized and I think
he’d make a good head coach somewhere, even though former Vikes punter Mitch
Berger reportedly referred to him as a “meathead” and he was implicated in a
ticket scalping scam that cost him a $100,000 fine.<br />
<br />
<b>6) Norm Van Brocklin</b><i> – 1961- 1966</i> <b>-</b> The first Vikings
coach, his 29-51-4 record and .363 winning percentage don’t impress. Didn’t
seem to be much of a judge of talent. Especially since he had a good
quarterback in Fran Tarkenton but didn’t utilize him in the right way, or maybe
just refused to. I’m assuming Van Brocklin’s in the Hall of Fame based on his
career as a NFL quarterback in the 1950’s. Can’t be for anything he did with
the Vikings, since he did nothing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 7)</span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Leslie Frazier </span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">– <i>2010 - 2013</i><b> -</b>
It doesn't seem like Frazier was in charge for three and a half seasons; it
also feels like his 22-31-1 won-loss record and .398 winning percentage should
have been better. Unfortunately he came into a chaotic situation, had little
talent on the roster, and had a number of key players get injured during each
season. Frazier seemed to delegate too much authority to coordinators who were
conservative play callers.<br />
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<b>8) Brad Childress –</b> <i>2006 - 2010</i> <b>- </b>Most fans might
place Childress fourth on this list, after Grant, Green, and Zimmer. To me he
doesn’t deserve to be ranked any higher, only lower. His 39-35 record and .527
winning percentage is misleading. The only reason the Vikings won a lot of
games in 2009 is because Brett Favre had a great season. I knew the Vikes were
in trouble when a few weeks after Childress was hired in 2006 I read in an
interview that he’d rather draft a quarterback from a smaller school, “knock
the edges off, and then in a few years you’ve got something.” Good grief. These
coaches and their projects. It’s ridiculous. Childress was not a keen judge of
talent; a lot of the players he had a hand in drafting or signing were not very
good. Just look at the mess the team is in at the end of the 2011 season. He
referred to the offense he designed as a “kick-ass offense” but it was usually
more like the Vikings kicking themselves in the ass. I should probably blame
the Wilfs, the owners who hired Childress in the first place. They brought him
in to “clean things up and restore order” after the Love Boat scandal and other
shenanigans going on the clubhouse, but in the end there was more turmoil and
chaos with Childress in charge (see the Randy Moss trade/release and loss of a
draft pick). In an interview former quarterback Gus Frerotte stated that
Childress absolutely refused to allow his quarterbacks to call an audible at
the line of scrimmage; Frerotte noted that now, as a high school coach, he even
lets <i>his</i> quarterbacks call audibles. The thing that bothers me a lot
though is the 12</span><sup><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 7.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">th</span></sup><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> man on the field fiasco at the end of the
NFC championship game against the Saints after the 2009 season. Yes, the
coaches don’t miss the blocks and tackles, fumble the ball, throw the
interceptions, or miss calls like the referees do. But the penalty for having
12 men on the field…12 men on the field? That was just too much. How could that
happen? Not to mention, you’ve got 23 assistant coaches helping you…and there’s
12 guys on the field? That is still unreal to me. To Childress’ credit, he did
take responsibility for that disaster at a press conference in the days
following the game. Oh well. So close to going to the Super Bowl, and yet
another missed opportunity. In retrospect, the Wilfs could have went after Sean
Payton or Mike McCarthy – both of whom became head coaches in 2006 as well and
later went on to win Super Bowls with the Saints and Packers, respectively.
Nice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
9)</span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Les Steckel –</span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <i>1984</i><b> -</b> probably
the only worse season than 2011 in the Vikings history is 1984. Steckel’s
old-school coaching methods turned off players from the start. Yelling like a
marine drill sergeant didn’t work with professional football players. Players
were worn out before midseason from all the hitting in training camp and
practices. Steckel also made many questionable player personnel decisions,
starting guys who wouldn’t have made other teams’ rosters. His 3-13 record
included the Vikings being completely blown out on the field in some games. Les
gained some measure of redemption in an odd way the following year in 1985.
After being fired as the Vikings head man he became receivers coach for the New
England Patriots – and went with them to Super Bowl XX. Seems like everyone
gets a chance to go to the Super Bowl, except for the Vikings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-91155664681774130052020-04-16T08:22:00.001-07:002020-04-16T08:22:24.074-07:00Christopher J: The Best 59 Minnesota Vikings of All Time<a href="https://christopherj151515.blogspot.com/2020/04/the-best-59-minnesota-vikings-of-all.html?spref=bl">Christopher J: The Best 59 Minnesota Vikings of All Time</a>: Nine years ago in honor of the Minnesota Vikings 50th season, fans voted for the best 50 Vikings of all time. Longtime head coach Bud Gra...Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-50609233380351006202020-04-16T08:21:00.000-07:002020-04-16T08:21:44.793-07:00The Best 59 Minnesota Vikings of All Time<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Nine years ago in honor of the <a href="http://voices.yahoo.com/topic/12407/minnesota_vikings.html" title="Minnesota Vikings"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Minnesota Vikings</span></a> 50th season, fans voted for
the best 50 Vikings of all time. Longtime head coach Bud Grant was included on
that list, but this one ranks only players. Being that 2019 was the 59<sup>th</sup>
season in the franchise's history, the top 59 are included here. Selection and
ranking were based on longevity (seasons with the team), individual statistics
and honors, the player's contribution to the team's wins, and overall team
success during the player's tenure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">59) Greg Coleman, P:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Coleman was steady
during his ten years with the team from 1977-1987, punting in 138 games, still
the team record.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">58) Stu Voigt, TE:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Voigt was a steady tight end during his 11 years
and 131 games with the team from 1970-1980, contributing during the team's <a href="http://voices.yahoo.com/topic/12189/super_bowl.html" title="super bowl"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Super Bowl</span></a>
seasons in the mid-'70's.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">57)
Steve Hutchinson, G:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Started 89 games in six years with
the team from 2006-2011, and was selected to four Pro Bowls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">56) Steve Riley, OT:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A
first round pick in 1974, Riley started 121 games at left tackle during his 11
year career, protecting the blind side of quarterbacks Fran Tarkenton and Tommy
Kramer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">55) Doug Martin, DE:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A
former first round pick, Martin started and ended his career with the team on
controversial notes, but was a pretty good defensive lineman player from
1980-1989. He played in 126 games, starting 94, and his 60.5 sacks rank ninth
in team history.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">54) Ted Brown, RB:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Brown played in 106
games during his eight year career with Minnesota from 1979-1986, ranking fifth
on the team's rushing list with 4,546 yards and seventh in scoring with 53
touchdowns.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">53) Lonnie Warwick, MLB:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">
Warwick played in 92 games and started 75. The middle linebacker in a defense
that dominated opponents' offenses in 1968, 1969, and 1970, he intercepted 12
passes, recorded 7.5 sacks and recovered 6 fumbles in his eight year career
with the Vikes from 1965-1972. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<b>52) Gene Washington, WR:</b> Playing in 81 games in his six seasons with the
Vikings from 1967-1972, Washington was named to the Pro Bowl in 1969 and 1970
and was the team's top receiver during those dominant years.<br />
</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">51) Fred Cox, K:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> The Vikings placekicker from 1963 through 1977 appeared in 210 games
and is the team's all-time scoring leader with 1,365 points.<br />
<br />
<b>50) Dave Osborn, RB:</b> A tough runner and reliable receiver out of the
backfield, Osborn's 4,320 rushing yards rank sixth in team history. He was
named to one Pro Bowl during his 11 years and 137 games with the team from
1965-1975.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">49) Robert Smith, RB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A two time Pro Bowl
selection, Smith played in 98 games during his eight seasons with the team from
1993-2000, rushing for 6,818 yards, second in team history.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">48)</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span><strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Chad
Greenway, LB: </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">A two time Pro Bowl selection, Greenway played in 156 games, starting
144, in a ten year career with Minnesota from 2007-2016. He recorded 18
quarterback sacks, forced 8 fumbles and recovered 11, and intercepted 11
passes, returning two for touchdowns.</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<b>47) Doug Sutherland, DT:</b> Sutherland played in 138 games during his 10
years with the Vikings, starting 90 from 1971-1980. He plugged the middle of
the defensive line at left tackle during the mid-1970's when the team had
highly rated defenses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">46) Nate Wright, CB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A steady cornerback during
the mid-1970's when the team led the league each year in many defensive
categories, Wright played in 129 games, starting 89, in his ten years with the
team from 1971-1980. He ranks 5th with 31 interceptions and knocked down 55
passes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<b>45) Tommy Kramer, QB:</b> While injured often during his 13 years with the
Vikes from 1977-1989, Kramer did start 110 games at quarterback and ranks
second in most passing categories, including yards and touchdowns.<br />
<br />
<b>44) Tim Irwin, OT:</b> During his 13 years with the team from 1981-1993
Irwin played in 188 games, starting 181, at right tackle. Standing at 6-7, he
also blocked a few extra points and field goals while on the special teams
unit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">43) Matt Birk, C:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Birk played in 146 games and started
123 from 1998-2008, earning six Pro Bowl nods while snapping the ball at
center.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">42) Fred McNeil, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Playing in 167 games
and starting 122 at outside linebacker during his 12 years with the team from
1974-1985, McNeil recovered 16 fumbles, intercepted 7 passes, and recorded 13
quarterback sacks.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">41) Ed McDaniel, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Ranking third in
tackles for loss with 90.5, McDaniel is second among Viking linebackers with
20.5 sacks and sixth on the team with 17 forced fumbles. He had 5 fumble
recoveries, intercepted 4 passes and was named to the Pro Bowl once during his
nine seasons and 125 games, 109 starts, with the Vikings from 1992-2001.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">40) John Gilliam, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Named to the Pro Bowl
after each of his four seasons with the team, Gilliam's 20 yard
average-per-reception is by far highest among Viking players with at least 100
catches.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">39) Ed Sharockman, CB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A consistent defensive
back on Minnesota's great defenses of the late '60's and early '70's, Sharockman
played in 142 games, starting 121, during his 12 years with the team. He ranks
third with 40 interceptions, returning four for touchdowns, and also recovered
9 fumbles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">38) Karl Kassulke, S:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Another key player on
the team's outstanding defenses in the late 60's and early '70's, Kassulke
played in 131 games at safety, starting 121, intercepting 19 passes. Selected
to one Pro Bowl, he had 9 fumble recoveries and his 8 sacks are third among
defensive backs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">37) Ed White, OG:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Selected to three Pro Bowls in his
eight years with the team, White played in 122 games and started 94 at guard
during the team's dominant run in the early and mid-1970's.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">36) Gary Zimmerman, OT:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Named to three Pro
Bowls in his seven years with the Vikings Zimmerman held down left tackle for
108 consecutive games during the late '80's and early 90's.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">35) Wally Hilgenberg, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A tough outside
linebacker on the Vikings' great defenses of the late 60's and throughout the
70's, Hilgenberg played in 158 games, starting 118, in 12 seasons. He recovered
13 fumbles, recorded 8 sacks, picked off 8 passes and scored two touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">34) Harrison
Smith:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Named to five Pro Bowls and one All Pro team in eight seasons from
2012-2019, Smith has played in 114 games, starting 113. He has intercepted 23 passes,
returning four for touchdowns, knocked down 56 balls, forced seven fumbles and
recovered eight, and has recorded 13 QB sacks, which is first all-time among
Viking defensive backs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">33) Keith Millard, DT:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Selected All-Pro and
to the Pro Bowl twice, Millard was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in
1989 when he recorded 18 sacks. Millard was a key piece of the team's
outstanding defenses in the late '80's, appearing in 75 games and starting 64
during his six years with the Vikes from 1985-1990.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">32) Henry Thomas, DT:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Selected to two Pro
Bowls while appearing in 118 games and starting 117 in 8 years, Thomas ranks
sixth in tackles-for-loss with 62. He is eleventh with 56 sacks, forced 12
fumbles, and recovered 8, returning two for touchdowns. He also had two interceptions
and notched a safety.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">31) Antoine Winfield, CB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Selected to three Pro
Bowls during his nine years with the Vikings, he played in 119 games, starting
115. Of Winfield's 21 interceptions two were returned for touchdowns. He
defensed 73 passes, which is fourth in team history, recorded 6.5 QB sacks,
forced 11 fumbles and recovered 9, returning two of those for touchdowns as
well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">30) Jared Allen, DE:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Named to the Pro Bowl
four times in his six years with the team, Allen's 88.5 sacks place him sixth
in team history. He also intercepted 4 passes, forced 16 fumbles, recovered 9, and
registered 4 safeties while starting all 96 games he appeared in at right end.<br />
<br />
<b>29) Kevin Williams, DT:</b> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Williams started
all 171 games he<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>appeared in over 11
seasons. He ranks eighth with 60 QB sacks, knocked down 66 passes, forced 8
fumbles, and recovered 13, returning two for touchdowns. Williams also
intercepted 5 passes, bring back two for scores.<br />
<br />
<b>28) Grady Alderman, OT:</b> Holding down left tackle on offense for 14 years
from 1961-1974, Alderman played in 193 games, starting 167, and was selected to
the Pro Bowl six times.<br />
<br />
<b>27) Gary Larsen, DT:</b> A member of one of the best front fours in NFL
history, defensive tackle Larsen played in 135 games, starting 107, in 10
seasons for the Vikings. He recorded 37 sacks, recovered 10 fumbles, and was
named to two Pro Bowls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">26) Ahmad Rashad, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Selected to four Pro
Bowls in his seven years with the team, Rashad had 400 receptions and scored 34
touchdowns in 98 games, 94 starts. He was part of one of the most memorable
plays in NFL history, catching a touchdown pass on the game's last play against
the Browns in 1980.<br />
<br />
<b>25) Sammy White, WR:</b> A two time Pro Bowler, White played in 128 games,
starting 118, and was the team's top receiver in the late '70's, averaging 16.3
yards per catch. His 50 touchdown receptions are fourth in team history.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">24) Steve Jordan, TE:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A six time Pro Bowl
selection, Jordan was a consistent and durable tight end, appearing in 176 games
and starting 149 in 13 seasons. He had 498 receptions and scored 28 touchdowns.<br />
<br />
<b>23) Carl Lee, CB:</b> Selected three times to the Pro Bowl, Lee played in
169 games, starting 144, during 11 seasons with the team. A key player at
cornerback on the team's great defenses in the late 1980's, he is the all-time
leader in passes defensed with 128, recovered 6 fumbles, and is sixth with 29
interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">22) Roy Winston, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> In 15 seasons Winston
played in 191 games, starting 158 at outside linebacker on dominant Viking
defenses in the late '60's and early '70's. A playmaker, he had 16 sacks,
fourth among linebackers and 14 fumble recoveries, third among linebackers, and
12 interceptions, second among linebackers, while scoring 3 touchdowns. He also
is fifth all-time with 68 tackles-for-loss.<br />
<br />
<b>21) Bill Brown, RB:</b> A tough runner, he is in fourth place in rushing
yards with 5,757 and second with 52 touchdowns. He added 286 receptions and
another 23 TD's as a receiver out of the backfield. Brown played in 180 games
during 13 seasons and was selected four times to the Pro Bowl.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">20) Bobby Bryant, CB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A playmaker at
cornerback, Bryant was selected to two Pro Bowls in 13 seasons, playing in 161
games and starting 127. He is second in team history with 51 interceptions and
second in passes defensed with 77. He also recovered 14 fumbles and scored four
touchdowns, in addition to coming up with a number of big plays in playoff
games.<br />
<br />
<b>19) Scott Studwell, MLB:</b> Fifth in team history with 201 games played,
Studwell started 161 at middle linebacker and was selected to the Pro Bowl
twice. He forced 12 fumbles, recovered 16, intercepted 11 passes, and had 9 QB
sacks. He ranks ninth with 46 tackles-for-loss.<br />
<br />
<b>18) Jeff Siemon, MLB:</b> A key player as the middle linebacker on the
team's top defenses in the mid-1970's, Siemon played in 156 games, starting
123, and was selected to four Pro Bowls. He forced 14 fumbles, recovered 11,
had 6 QB sacks, and 11 interceptions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
17) Anthony Carter, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A dynamic game-changing receiver,
Carter averaged 16 yards per catch and is third in team history with 478
receptions, 7,636 yards and 52 touchdowns. Selected to the Pro Bowl three
times, he played in 133 games and started 125 in his nine years with the team.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">16) Randy Moss, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A five time Pro Bowl selection during
his seven seasons and 113 games with Minnesota, Moss is second in team history
in a number of receiving categories, including 587 receptions, 9,316 yards, and
92 touchdowns.<br />
<br />
<b>15) Joey Browner, S:</b> Selected to the Pro Bowl as a safety six times in
his nine seasons, Browner played in 145 games, starting 117. He is fourth in
interceptions with 37, third in passes defensed with 76, fifth in forced
fumbles with 18, and fifth in fumble recoveries in 17. He also recorded 9.5 QB
sacks, second among Viking defensive backs, and scored 4 touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">14) Adrian Peterson, RB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> After ten seasons and
123 games, Peterson holds the Viking record in rushing yards with 11,747 and is
first in rushing touchdowns with 97. A seven time Pro Bowl selection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<b>13) Chuck Foreman, RB:</b> An exceptional runner and receiver who could turn
around a game, Foreman was selected to the Pro Bowl five times in his seven
seasons in Minnesota. He rushed for 5,887 yards and 52 touchdowns, and caught
336 passes for another 23 scores.<br />
<br />
<b>12) Chris Doleman, DE:</b> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Doleman played in
154 games, starting 142, in 10 seasons with the Vikings. He leads the team with
33 forced fumbles, is sixth in fumble recoveries with 16, seventh in
tackles-for-loss with 60, and fifth in sacks with 96.5. He also intercepted five
passes, scored two touchdowns, and recorded two safeties.<br />
<br />
<b>11) Matt Blair, LB:</b> Selected to six Pro Bowls in his 12 seasons, Blair
played in 160 games, starting 130. He is fourth in forced fumbles with 19,
third in fumble recoveries with 20, and tenth in tackles-for-loss with 44. His
23 sacks and 16 interceptions are first among Vikings linebackers. He also
blocked 20 kicks in his career.<br />
<br />
<b>10) Mick Tingelhoff, C:</b> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Tingelhoff
started every Viking game at center from 1962 through 1977, 240 consecutive
games in all. He anchored the Vikings offensive line and was elected to the
Hall of Fame in 2015.<br />
<br />
<b>9) John Randle, DT:</b> A standout defensive tackle who played in 176 games
and started 150, Randle was named to six Pro Bowls in his 11 seasons with the
Vikings. He recovered 9 fumbles, ranks third in forced fumbles with 25, and is
third in QB sacks with 114. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010.<br />
<br />
<b>8) Ron Yary, OT:</b> Selected to the Pro Bowl seven times in his 14 years
with the Vikings, Yary played in 199 games and started 180 at right offensive
tackle. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001.<br />
<br />
<b>7) Randall McDaniel, OG:</b> Selected to the Pro Bowl a record 12 times in
his 12 years with the Vikings, he played in 190 games, starting 188 at left
guard. McDaniel was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009.<br />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
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<!--[endif]--><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">6) Paul Krause, S:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> The NFL's record holder for
interceptions with 81, Krause is the Vikings leader in that category with 53
picks, returning two of those for touchdowns. He also recovered 11 fumbles,
bringing back two for scores, and knocked down 54 passes. In 12 years with the
team he played in 172 games, starting 146, and was selected to six Pro Bowls.
Krause was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998.<br />
<br />
<b>5) Jim Marshall, DE:</b> Starting all 270 games in which he played as a
Viking at right defensive end, Marshall is second in team history with 127
sacks, first with 29 fumble recoveries, and fourth in tackle-for-loss with 74.
A two time Pro Bowl selection, he deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.<br />
<br />
<b>4) Carl Eller, DE:</b> The team's all-time leader in QB sacks with 130,
Eller was selected to six Pro Bowls. He ranks second in tackles-for-loss with
87, second in fumble recoveries with 23, and seventh in forced fumbles with 15.
He also blocked 15 kicks. Eller played in 209 games, fourth in team history,
and started 201. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004, an honor that
was long overdue.<br />
<br />
<b>3) Cris Carter, WR:</b> Selected to 8 consecutive Pro Bowls in his 12 years
with the team, Carter played in 188 games, starting 177. He holds most Viking
receiving records, including 1,004 receptions, 12,383 yards, and 110
touchdowns. He ranks fourth all-time in NFL history in receptions and touchdown
catches, and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2013.<br />
<br />
<b>2) Fran Tarkenton, QB:</b> The Vikings record holder in most passing
categories, Tarkenton played in 177 games, starting 170, and was selected to
five Pro Bowls in his 13 seasons with the team. Named the NFL Most Valuable
Player in 1975, he is also among the leaders in league history for records
among quarterbacks. Tarkenton was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1986.<br />
<br />
<b>1) Alan Page, DT:</b> A defensive tackle who changed the game in the late
1960's and early 1970's, Page was named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1971. Selected
to the Pro Bowl nine times in his 12 years with the Vikings, he played in 160
games and started 157. He is fourth in team history with 108.5 sacks, fourth
with 18 fumble recoveries, third with 77 tackles-for-loss, and second with 28
forced fumbles. Page was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1988. He is the
greatest Minnesota Viking of all time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<i>sources for statistics:</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.pro-football-reference.com/"><i>http://www.pro-football-reference.com/</i></a><br />
<a href="http://min.scout.com/"><i>http://min.scout.com/</i></a></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-65588992525879305172019-01-18T07:35:00.000-08:002019-01-18T07:35:48.220-08:00The Best 58 Minnesota Vikings of All Time
<span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Eight years ago in honor of the <a href="http://voices.yahoo.com/topic/12407/minnesota_vikings.html" title="Minnesota Vikings"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Minnesota Vikings</span></a> 50th season, fans voted for
the best 50 Vikings of all time. Longtime head coach Bud Grant was included on
that list, but this one ranks only players. Being that 2018 was the 58<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
season in the franchise's history, the top 58 are included here. Selection and
ranking were based on longevity (seasons with the team), individual statistics
and honors, the player's contribution to the team's wins, and overall team
success during the player's tenure.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><strong><u><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Honorable Mention: </span></u></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<b><u><br />
</u><strong><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Joe
Kapp, QB: </span></strong></b>Kapp played for the team for only three years,
yet was instrumental in their 1969 Super Bowl season, so he deserves a mention.
He was named the Vikes' MVP that year but refused the award, saying "there
is no most valuable Viking" and noting the team's motto of "40 for
60" - 40 men playing together for every 60 minutes in a game. <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Jim
Kleinsasser, TE:</span></strong> Doing the dirty work as a blocker at tight end
and fullback, Kleinsasser played in 180 games, starting 130, during 13 seasons
with the team. <span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Steve
Hutchinson, G:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Started 89 games in six years with the team from
2006-2011, and was selected to four Pro Bowls.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">David
Dixon, G:</span></strong> Dixon played in 152 games during 11 seasons for the
Vikings. He started 134 of those games at right guard, clearing the way for
runners such as Robert Smith, Leroy Hoard, and Michael Bennett. <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Milt
Sunde, G:</span></strong> a former 20th round pick, Sunde started 106 games at
left guard and right guard, including the team's dominant season in 1969. <span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Jake Reed, WR:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Reed played in 134
games and started 83 during his 10 years with the team. His 413 catches rank
fourth in team history, and his 33 touchdown receptions are good for sixth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">58)
Doug Martin, DE:</span></strong> A former first round pick, Martin started and
ended his career with the team on controversial notes, but was a pretty good
player on the field during the early and mid-1980's. He played in 126 games,
starting 94, and his 60.5 sacks rank seventh in team history. <span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">57) Steve Riley, OT:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A
first round pick in 1974, Riley started 121 games at left tackle during his 11
year career, protecting the blind side of quarterbacks Fran Tarkenton and Tommy
Kramer. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">56) Lonnie Warwick, MLB:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">
Warwick played in 92 games and started 75. The middle linebacker in a defense
that dominated opponents' offenses in 1968, 1969, and 1970, he intercepted 12
passes, recorded 7.5 sacks and recovered 6 fumbles in his eight year career
with the Vikes. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">55) Ted Brown, RB:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Brown played in 106
games during his eight year career with Minnesota, ranking fifth on the team's
rushing list with 4,546 yards and seventh in scoring with 53 touchdowns.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<br />
<b>54) Greg Coleman, P:</b> Coleman was steady during his ten years with the
team from 1977-1987, punting in 138 games, still the team record.<br />
<br />
<b>53) Gene Washington, WR:</b> Playing in 81 games in his six seasons with the
Vikings, Washington was named to the Pro Bowl in 1969 and 1970 and was the
team's top receiver during those dominant years.<br />
</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<b>52) Stu Voigt, TE:</b> Voigt was a steady tight end during his 11 years and
131 games with the team, contributing during the team's <a href="http://voices.yahoo.com/topic/12189/super_bowl.html" title="super bowl"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Super Bowl</span></a>
seasons in the mid-'70's.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">51) Harrison
Smith:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Named to four Pro Bowls and one All Pro team in seven seasons from
2012-2018, Smith has played in 99 games, starting 98. He has intercepted 20 passes,
returning four for touchdowns, knocked down 45 balls, forced four fumbles and
recovered six, and has recorded 12 QB sacks, which is first all-time among
Viking defensive backs.<span style="color: black;"><br />
<br />
<b>50) Fred Cox, K:</b> The Vikings placekicker from 1963 through 1977 appeared
in 210 games and is the team's all-time scoring leader with 1,365 points.<br />
<br />
<b>49) Dave Osborn, RB:</b> A tough runner and reliable receiver out of the
backfield, Osborn's 4,320 rushing yards rank sixth in team history. He was
named to one Pro Bowl during his 11 years and 137 games with the team.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">48) Robert Smith, RB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A two time Pro Bowl
selection, Smith played in 98 games during his eight seasons with the team,
rushing for 6,818 yards, second in team history.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">47)</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span><strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Chad
Greenway, LB: </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">A two time Pro Bowl selection, Greenway played in 156 games, starting
144, in a ten year career with Minnesota from 2007-2016. He recorded 18
quarterback sacks, forced 8 fumbles and recovered 11, and intercepted 11
passes, returning two for touchdowns.</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<b>46) Doug Sutherland, DT:</b> Sutherland played in 138 games during his 10
years with the Vikings, starting 90. He plugged the middle of the defensive
line at left tackle during the mid-1970's when the team had highly rated
defenses.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">45) Nate Wright, CB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A steady cornerback during
the mid-1970's when the team led the league each year in many defensive
categories, Wright played in 129 games, starting 89, in his ten years with the
team. He ranks 5th with 31 interceptions and knocked down 55 passes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">44) John Gilliam, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Named to the Pro Bowl
after each of his four seasons with the team, Gilliam's 20 yard
average-per-reception is by far highest among Viking players with at least 100
catches.<br />
<br />
<b>43) Ed Sharockman, CB:</b> A consistent defensive back on Minnesota's great
defenses of the late '60's and early '70's, Sharockman played in 142 games,
starting 121, during his 12 years with the team. He ranks third with 40
interceptions, returning four for touchdowns, and also recovered 9 fumbles.<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">42) Keith Millard, DT:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Selected All-Pro and
to the Pro Bowl twice, Millard was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in
1989 when he recorded 18 sacks. Millard was a key piece of the team's
outstanding defenses in the late '80's, appearing in 75 games during his six
years with the Vikes.<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">41) Fred McNeil, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Playing in 167 games
and starting 122 at outside linebacker during his 12 years with the team,
McNeil recovered 16 fumbles, intercepted 7 passes, and recorded 13 quarterback
sacks.
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">40) Ed McDaniel, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> The team leader in
tackles for loss with 90.5, he ranks second among Viking linebackers with 20.5
sacks. McDaniel is also sixth on the team with 17 forced fumbles. He has 5
fumble recoveries, intercepted 4 passes and was named to the Pro Bowl once
during his nine seasons and 125 games, 109 starts, with the Vikings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">39) Karl Kassulke, S:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Another key player on
the team's outstanding defenses in the late 60's and early '70's, Kassulke
played in 131 games at safety, starting 121, intercepting 19 passes. Selected
to one Pro Bowl, he had 9 fumble recoveries and his 8 sacks are third among
defensive backs.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">38) Wally Hilgenberg, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A tough outside
linebacker on the Vikings' great defenses of the late 60's and throughout the
70's, Hilgenberg played in 158 games, starting 118, in 12 seasons. He recovered
13 fumbles, recorded 8 sacks, picked off 8 passes and scored two touchdowns.<br />
<br />
<b>37) Jared Allen, DE:</b> Named to the Pro Bowl four times in his six years
with the team, Allen's 88.5 sacks place him sixth in team history. He also
intercepted 4 passes, forced 16 fumbles, recovered 9, and registered 4 safeties
while starting all 96 games he appeared in at right end.<br />
<br />
<b>36) Antoine Winfield, CB:</b> Selected to three Pro Bowls during his nine
years with the Vikings, he played in 119 games, starting 115. Of Winfield's 21
interceptions two were returned for touchdowns. He defensed 73 passes, which is
fourth in team history, recorded 6.5 QB sacks, forced 11 fumbles and recovered
9, returning two of those for touchdowns as well.<br />
<br />
<b>35) Tommy Kramer, QB:</b> While injured often during his 13 years with the
Vikes, Kramer did start 110 games at quarterback and ranks second in most
passing categories, including yards and touchdowns.<br />
<br />
<b>34) Ed White, OG:</b> Selected to three Pro Bowls in his eight years with
the team, White played in 122 games and started 94 at guard during the team's
dominant run in the early and mid-1970's.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">33) Gary Zimmerman, OT:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Named to three Pro
Bowls in his seven years with the Vikings Zimmerman held down left tackle for
108 consecutive games during the late '80's and early 90's.<br />
<br />
<b>32) Matt Birk, C:</b> Birk played in 146 games and started 123 from
1998-2008, earning six Pro Bowl nods while snapping the ball at center.<br />
<br />
<b>31) Tim Irwin, OT:</b> During his 13 years with the team he played in 188
games, starting 181 at right tackle. Standing at 6-7, he also blocked a few
extra points and field goals while on the special teams unit.<br />
<br />
<b>30) Henry Thomas, DT:</b> Selected to two Pro Bowls while appearing in 118
games and starting 117 in 8 years, Thomas ranks sixth in tackles-for-loss with
62. He is ninth with 56 sacks, forced 12 fumbles, and recovered 8, returning
two for touchdowns. He also had two interceptions and notched a safety.<br />
<br />
<b>29) Kevin Williams, DT:</b> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Williams started
all 171 games he<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>appeared in over 11 seasons.
He ranks eighth with 60 QB sacks, knocked down 66 passes, forced 8 fumbles, and
recovered 13, returning two for touchdowns. Williams also intercepted 5 passes,
bring back two for scores.<br />
<br />
<b>28) Grady Alderman, OT:</b> Holding down left tackle on offense for 14
years, Alderman played in 193 games, starting 174, and was selected to the Pro
Bowl six times.<br />
<br />
<b>27) Gary Larsen, DT:</b> A member of one of the best front fours in NFL
history, defensive tackle Larsen played in 135 games, starting 107, in 10
seasons for the Vikings. He recorded 37 sacks, recovered 10 fumbles, and was
named to two Pro Bowls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">26) Ahmad Rashad, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Selected to four Pro
Bowls in his seven years with the team, Rashad had 400 receptions and scored 34
touchdowns in 98 games. He was part of one of the most memorable plays in NFL
history, catching a touchdown pass on the game's last play against the Browns
in 1980.<br />
<br />
<b>25) Sammy White, WR:</b> A two time Pro Bowler, White played in 128 games,
starting 118, and was the team's top receiver in the late '70's, averaging 16.3
yards per catch. His 50 touchdown receptions are fourth in team history.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">24) Randy Moss, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A five time Pro Bowl selection during
his seven seasons and 113 games with Minnesota, Moss is second in team history
in a number of receiving categories, including 587 receptions, 9,316 yards, and
92 touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">23) Steve Jordan, TE:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A six time Pro Bowl
selection, Jordan was a consistent and durable tight end, appearing in 176
games and starting 149 in 13 seasons. He had 498 receptions and scored 28
touchdowns.<br />
<br />
<b>22) Carl Lee, CB:</b> Selected three times to the Pro Bowl, Lee played in
169 games, starting 144, during 11 seasons with the team. A key player at
cornerback on the team's great defenses in the late 1980's, he is the all-time
leader in passes defensed with 128, recovered 6 fumbles, and is sixth with 29
interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">21) Roy Winston, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> In 15 seasons Winston
played in 191 games, starting 158 at outside linebacker on dominant Viking
defenses in the late '60's and early '70's. A playmaker, he had 16 sacks,
fourth among linebackers; 14 fumble recoveries, third among linebackers; and
12 interceptions, second among linebackers, while scoring 3 touchdowns. He also
is fifth all-time with 68 tackles-for-loss.<br />
<br />
<b>20) Bill Brown, RB:</b> A tough runner, he is in fourth place in rushing
yards with 5,757 and tied second with 52 touchdowns. He added 286 receptions and
another 23 TD's as a receiver out of the backfield. Brown played in 180 games
during 13 seasons and was selected four times to the Pro Bowl.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">19) Bobby Bryant, CB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A playmaker at
cornerback, Bryant was selected to two Pro Bowls in 13 seasons, playing in 161
games and starting 127. He is second in team history with 51 interceptions and
second in passes defensed with 77. He also recovered 14 fumbles and scored four
touchdowns, in addition to coming up with a number of big plays in playoff
games.<br />
<br />
<b>18) Scott Studwell, MLB:</b> Fifth in team history with 201 games played,
Studwell started 161 at middle linebacker and was selected to the Pro Bowl
twice. He forced 12 fumbles, recovered 16, intercepted 11 passes, and had 9 QB
sacks. He ranks ninth with 46 tackles-for-loss.
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">17) Jeff Siemon, MLB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A key player as the
middle linebacker on the team's top defenses in the mid-1970's, Siemon played
in 156 games, starting 123, and was selected to four Pro Bowls. He forced 14
fumbles, recovered 11, had 6 QB sacks, and 11 interceptions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
16) Anthony Carter, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A dynamic game-changing receiver,
Carter averaged 16 yards per catch and is third in team history with 478
receptions, 7,636 yards and 52 touchdowns. Selected to the Pro Bowl three
times, he played in 133 games and started 125 in his nine years with the team.<br />
<br />
<b>15) Joey Browner, S:</b> Selected to the Pro Bowl as a safety six times in
his nine seasons, Browner played in 145 games, starting 117. He is fourth in
interceptions with 37, third in passes defensed with 76, fifth in forced
fumbles with 18, and fifth in fumble recoveries in 17. He also recorded 9.5 QB
sacks, second among Viking defensive backs, and scored 4 touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">14) Adrian Peterson, RB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> After ten seasons and
123 games, Peterson holds the Viking record in rushing yards with 11,747 and is
first in rushing touchdowns with 97. A seven time Pro Bowl selection.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">
<b>13) Chuck Foreman, RB:</b> An exceptional runner and receiver who could turn
around a game, Foreman was selected to the Pro Bowl five times in his seven
seasons in Minnesota. He rushed for 5,887 yards and 52 touchdowns, and caught
336 passes for another 23 scores.<br />
<br />
<b>12) Chris Doleman, DE:</b> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Doleman played in
154 games, starting 142, in 10 seasons with the Vikings. He leads the team with
33 forced fumbles, is sixth in fumble recoveries with 16, seventh in
tackles-for-loss with 60, and fifth in sacks with 96.5. He also intercepted
five passes, scored two touchdowns, and recorded two safeties.<br />
<br />
<b>11) Matt Blair, LB:</b> Selected to six Pro Bowls in his 12 seasons, Blair
played in 160 games, starting 130. He is fourth in forced fumbles with 19,
third in fumble recoveries with 20, and tenth in tackles-for-loss with 44. His
23 sacks and 16 interceptions are first among Vikings linebackers. He also
blocked 20 kicks in his career.<br />
<br />
<b>10) Mick Tingelhoff, C:</b> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Tingelhoff
started every Viking game at center from 1962 through 1977, 240 consecutive
games in all. He anchored the Vikings offensive line and was elected to the
Hall of Fame in 2015.<br />
<br />
<b>9) John Randle, DT:</b> A standout defensive tackle who played in 176 games
and started 150, Randle was named to six Pro Bowls in his 11 seasons with the
Vikings. He recovered 9 fumbles, ranks third in forced fumbles with 25, and is
third in QB sacks with 114. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010.<br />
<br />
<b>8) Ron Yary, OT:</b> Selected to the Pro Bowl seven times in his 14 years
with the Vikings, Yary played in 199 games and started 180 at right offensive
tackle. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001.<br />
<br />
<b>7) Randall McDaniel, OG:</b> Selected to the Pro Bowl a record 12 times in
his 12 years with the Vikings, he played in 190 games, starting 188 at left
guard. McDaniel was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009.
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">6) Paul Krause, S:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> The NFL's record holder for
interceptions with 81, Krause is the Vikings leader in that category with 53
picks, returning two of those for touchdowns. He also recovered 11 fumbles,
bringing back two for scores, and knocked down 54 passes. In 12 years with the
team he played in 172 games, starting 146, and was selected to six Pro Bowls.
Krause was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998.<br />
<br />
<b>5) Jim Marshall, DE:</b> Starting all 270 games in which he played as a
Viking at right defensive end, Marshall is second in team history with 127
sacks, first with 29 fumble recoveries, and fourth in tackle-for-loss with 74.
A two time Pro Bowl selection, he deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.<br />
<br />
<b>4) Carl Eller, DE:</b> The team's all-time leader in QB sacks with 130,
Eller was selected to six Pro Bowls. He ranks second in tackles-for-loss with
87, second in fumble recoveries with 23, and seventh in forced fumbles with 15.
He also blocked 15 kicks. Eller played in 209 games, fourth in team history,
and started 201. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004, an honor that
was long overdue.<br />
<br />
<b>3) Cris Carter, WR:</b> Selected to 8 consecutive Pro Bowls in his 12 years
with the team, Carter played in 188 games, starting 177. He holds most Viking
receiving records, including 1,004 receptions, 12,383 yards, and 110
touchdowns. He ranks fourth all-time in NFL history in receptions and touchdown
catches, and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2013.<br />
<br />
<b>2) Fran Tarkenton, QB:</b> The Vikings record holder in most passing
categories, Tarkenton played in 177 games, starting 170, and was selected to
five Pro Bowls in his 13 seasons with the team. Named the NFL Most Valuable
Player in 1975, he is also among the leaders in league history for records
among quarterbacks. Tarkenton was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1986.<br />
<br />
<b>1) Alan Page, DT:</b> A defensive tackle who changed the game in the late
1960's and early 1970's, Page was named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1971.
Selected to the Pro Bowl nine times in his 12 years with the Vikings, he played
in 160 games and started 157. He is fourth in team history with 108.5 sacks,
fourth with 18 fumble recoveries, third with 77 tackles-for-loss, and second
with 28 forced fumbles. Page was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1988. He is
the greatest Minnesota Viking of all time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<i>sources for statistics:</i> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.pro-football-reference.com/"><i><span style="color: #4860e9;">http://www.pro-football-reference.com/</span></i></a><br />
<a href="http://min.scout.com/"><i><span style="color: #4860e9;">http://min.scout.com/</span></i></a></span><o:p></o:p></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-28538373230174950442018-12-07T08:33:00.000-08:002018-12-07T09:00:32.860-08:00The best 20 victories in Minnesota Vikings history:<!-- x-tinymce/html --><strong><u>The best 20 victories in Minnesota Vikings history:</u></strong><br />
<br />
20) November 9, 1969: A 51-3 pounding of the Cleveland Browns, a top team in the NFL that year.<br />
<br />
19) October 18, 1970: A 54-13 pummeling of the Dallas Cowboys, who later went on to win the conference.<br />
<br />
18) November 26, 1998: The 46-36 final makes this game seem closer than it was. The Vikings demolished the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving to establish themselves as one of the best teams of the 1998 season.<br />
<br />
17) September 27, 2009: A 27-24 win over the San Francisco 49’ers on the game’s final play, a pass from Brett Favre to Greg Lewis.<br />
<br />
16) September 18, 1985: The Vikes scored 14 points in the last 3 minutes to win 28-21 against the San Francisco 49’ers.<br />
<br />
15) October 4, 1992: Down 20-0 in the 4<sup>th</sup> quarter, the Vikes rally to beat the Chicago Bears 21-20.<br />
<br />
14) December 29, 1974: A close playoff victory, 14-10, against the Los Angeles Rams.<br />
<br />
13) January 3, 1988: A 44-10 victory over the New Orleans Saints in the playoffs.<br />
<br />
12) November 26, 1987: A 44-38 win in overtime, on Thanksgiving against the Dallas Cowboys.<br />
<br />
11) January 17, 2010: Dismantling the Dallas Cowboys 34-3, the Vikings advance to the NFC championship game.<br />
<br />
10) December 26, 1976: A 24-13 win over the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC championship game sends the Vikings to their fourth Super Bowl.<br />
<br />
9) December 4, 1977: Losing 24-7 in the 4<sup>th</sup> quarter, the Vikes come back to win 28-27 against the San Francisco 49’ers.<br />
<br />
8) January 11, 1988: A 36-24 win against the San Francisco 49’ers propels the Vikings to the NFC championship.<br />
<br />
7) October 11, 1981: The Vikes recover an onside kick, then win 33-31 on a field goal in the game’s final minute against the San Diego Chargers.<br />
<br />
6) December 22, 1973: A second half comeback gives the team a 27-20 victory over the Washington Redskins in the divisional playoffs.<br />
<br />
5) October 5, 1998: With both teams undefeated at 4-0 entering this Monday night contest, the Vikings destroy the Green Bay Packers 37-24.<br />
<br />
4) January 4, 1970: A 27-7 win over the Cleveland Browns in the last NFL championship game sends the Vikings to their first Super Bowl.<br />
<br />
3) December 30, 1973: The Vikings dominate the Dallas Cowboys in a 27-10 victory in the NFC championship game.<br />
<br />
2) December 14, 1980: Losing 23-9 in the 4<sup>th</sup> quarter, the Vikings rally and beat the Cleveland Browns 29-23 on the game’s final play, a pass from Tommy Kramer to Ahmad Rashad, that gives the team the NFC central division championship.<br />
<br />
1) December 27, 1969: A second half comeback results in a 23-20 Vikings playoff win over the Los Angeles Rams, sending the team to the NFL championship. The game featured big plays from QB Joe Kapp, DT Alan Page, and DE Carl Eller.Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-12651025541750321322018-01-24T08:05:00.001-08:002020-10-03T20:20:42.925-07:00ALL-TIME BEST MINNESOTA VIKINGS BY POSITION
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">ALL
TIME VIKINGS<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">FIRST
TEAM OFFENSE<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">QB – Fran Tarkenton<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">RB – Chuck Foreman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">C – Mick Tinglehoff<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">G – Randall McDaniel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">G – Ed White<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Ron Yary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Grady Alderman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">TE – Steve Jordan<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">WR – Cris Carter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">WR – Anthony Carter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">WR – Randy Moss<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">K – Fred Cox<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">FIRST
TEAM DEFENSE<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">MLB – Jeff Siemon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">OLB – Matt Blair<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">OLB – Roy Winston<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">E – Carl Eller<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">E – Jim Marshall<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Alan Page<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – John Randle<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">CB – Bobby Bryant<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">CB – Carl Lee<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">S – Paul Krause<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">S – Joey Browner<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">P – Greg Coleman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">SECOND
TEAM OFFENSE<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">QB – Tommy Kramer<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">RB – Adrian Peterson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">RB – Bill Brown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">C – Matt Birk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">G – Milt Sunde<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">G – Steve Hutchinson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Tim Irwin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Gary Zimmerman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">TE – Stu Voight<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">WR – Sammy White<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">WR – Ahmad Rashad<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">K – Ryan Longwell<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">SECOND
TEAM DEFENSE<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">MLB – Scott Studwell<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">OLB – Wally Hilgenberg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">OLB – Ed McDaniel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">E – Chris Doleman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">E – Jared Allen<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Gary Larsen<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Kevin Williams<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">CB – Antoine Winfield<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">CB – Ed Sharockman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">S – Karl Kassulke<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">S – Harrison Smith<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">P – Chris Kluwe<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">THIRD
TEAM OFFENSE<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">QB – Joe Kapp<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">RB – Dave Osborn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">RB – Robert Smith<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">C – Jeff Christy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">G – David Dixon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">G – Charles Goodrum<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Steve Riley<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Todd Steussie<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">TE – Kyle Rudolph<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">WR – John Gilliam<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">WR – Gene Washington<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">K – Fuad Reveiz<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> <span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><strong><u>THIRD TEAM DEFENSE</u></strong></span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">MLB – Lonnie Warwick<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">OLB – Fred McNeil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">OLB – Chad Greenway<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">E – Doug Martin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">E – Everson Griffen<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Henry Thomas<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">T – Keith Millard<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">CB – Nate Wright<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">CB – Xavier Rhodes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">S – Robert Griffith<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">S – Jeff Wright<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">P – Mitch Berger<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-12959737595361282802018-01-19T10:48:00.000-08:002019-09-26T13:46:42.694-07:00The best Safeties in Minnesota Vikings history<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3 style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The best Safeties in Minnesota Vikings history <o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">A safety is the last line of defense; they cover the pass and
stop the run. In the years the Minnesota Vikings have had strong defenses, they
have had one or two good players at the position. Here are the top ten safeties in franchise history: <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">10) Kurt Knoff: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In four
years from 1979-1982 Knoff played in 51 games, starting 43. He intercepted 10
passes, returning one for a touchdown.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>9) Darren Sharper: </strong>Named to two Pro Bowls in his
four years with the team from 2005-2008, Sharper started all 62 games he played
in. He picked off 18 balls, returning 3 for scores, broke up 38 passes,
recovered three fumbles, and forced two. <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /><strong>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--></strong><strong>8) Tommy Hannon: </strong>A hard hitter who played in 117
games and started 103 in his eight year career from 1977-1984, Hannon ranks
tenth in team history with 11 fumble recoveries. He also intercepted 15 passes
and returned one for a touchdown. <br /><strong>
<br />
7) Orlando Thomas:</strong> Fourth in team history with 65 passes defensed, in
his seven year Viking career Thomas intercepted 22 passes, returning two for
touchdowns. He also forced six fumbles and recovered 10 while playing in 98
games, starting 87, from 1995-2001.<br /><strong>
<br />
6) Jeff Wright: </strong>Wright was a solid player and part of the team's top
defenses during a seven year career from 1971-1977, playing in 83 games
and starting 54. He intercepted 12 passes and recovered 9 fumbles. <br /><strong>
<br />
5) Robert Griffith: </strong>Named to one Pro Bowl in his eight years with the
team from 1994-2001, Griffith played in 119 games, starting 88 for winning
Viking teams in the mid to late 1990's. He picked off 17 passes, forced seven
fumbles, recovered two, recorded 7.5 QB sacks, and defensed 56 passes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman";">
<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">4)</span></strong><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> Harrison Smith:</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> Named to four Pro Bowls and one All Pro team in seven seasons
from 2012-2018, Smith has played in 99 games, starting 98. He has intercepted
20 passes, returning four for touchdowns, knocked down 45 balls, forced four
fumbles and recovered six, and has recorded 12 QB sacks, which is first
all-time among Viking defensive backs.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman";">
</span>
<br />
<b>3) Karl Kassulke:</b> A key player on the team's outstanding defenses in the
late '60's and early '70's, Kassulke played in 131 games at safety from
1963-1972, starting 121, intercepting 19 passes. Selected to one Pro Bowl, he
had 9 fumble recoveries and his 8 sacks are third among defensive backs. <br />
<br />
<b>2) Joey Browner:</b> Selected to the Pro Bowl as a safety six times in his
nine seasons from 1983-1991, Browner played in 145 games, starting 117. He is
fifth in forced fumbles with 18, fifth in fumble recoveries with 17, fourth in
interceptions with 37, and third in passes defensed with 76. He also recorded
9.5 QB sacks, second among Viking defensive backs, and scored 4 touchdowns. <br />
<br />
<b>1) Paul Krause:</b> The NFL's record holder for interceptions with 81,
Krause is the Vikings leader in that category with 53 picks, returning two of
those for touchdowns. He also recovered 11 fumbles, bringing back two for
scores, and knocked down 54 passes, ninth in team history. In 12 years with the
team from 1968-1979 he played in 172 games, starting 146, and was selected to
six Pro Bowls. Krause was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
</div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-7151472600604729072018-01-18T10:32:00.000-08:002018-01-18T10:32:18.561-08:00The best cornerbacks in Minnesota Viking history <div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The best cornerbacks in Minnesota Viking history <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 12pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">With rules regarding the passing game changing
through the years in the NFL, favoring offensive players to a great degree, the
position of cornerback may have become the most difficult position to play in
pro football. Cornerbacks have to cover wide receivers, who are often the best
athletes on the field. They also have to be sure tacklers. The Vikings have had
some good corners who were important parts of dominant defenses; here are the
top ten in franchise history. <br />
<br />
<b>10) Cedric Griffin: </b><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">In six years
from 2006-2011 Griffin played in 80 games, starting 70, and intercepted eight
passes. He knocked down 50 balls, forced 14 fumbles, and recovered 3.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">9) Willie Teal:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Teal played in 80 games and started 61 in
seven years with Minnesota from 1980-1986. He intercepted 15 passes, returning
one for a touchdown, and recovered 5 fumbles. <br />
<br />
<b>8) Earsell Mackbee:</b> In five seasons with the Vikings from 1965-1969
Mackbee played in 66 games, starting 56, including the team's dominant 1969
season. He picked off 15 passes, taking one back for a touchdown, and recovered
4 fumbles. <br />
<br />
<b>7) Audray McMillian:</b> In five years with the team from 1989-1993
McMillian played in 79 games, starting 43, and was selected to one Pro Bowl. He
intercepted 19 passes and returned three for scores. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 12pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">6) Xavier Rhodes: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In five seasons from 2013-2017 Rhodes has been named to two Pro
Bowls, while playing in 75 games, starting 68. Teams rarely throw in his
direction; he has intercepted 9 passes, returning one for a score, has defensed
59 balls, and has forced two fumbles.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b><br />
<br />
<b>5) Nate Wright:</b> A steady cornerback during the mid-1970's when the team
led the league each year in many defensive categories, Wright played in 129
games in his ten years with the team from 1971-1980 and ranks fifth in Viking
history with 31 interceptions. <br />
<br />
<b>4) Ed Sharockman:</b> A consistent defensive back on Minnesota's great
defenses of the late '60's and early '70's, Sharockman played in 142 games,
starting 121, during his 12 years with Minnesota from 1961-1972. He ranks third
with 40 interceptions, returning four for touchdowns, and also recovered 9
fumbles. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3)
Antoine Winfield:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Selected to three Pro Bowls during his nine
years with the Vikings from 2004-2012, he played in 119 games, starting 115. Of
Winfield's 21 interceptions two have been returned for touchdowns. He defensed
73 passes, which is fourth in team history, recorded 6.5 QB sacks, forced 11
fumbles and recovered 9, returning two of those for touchdowns as well.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
<br />
<b>2) Carl Lee:</b> Selected three times to the Pro Bowl, Lee played in 169
games, starting 144, during 11 seasons with the team from 1983-1993. A key
player at cornerback on Minnesota's great defenses in the late 1980's, he is
the Vikings all-time leader in passes defensed with 128, recovered 6 fumbles,
and is sixth with 29 interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns. <br />
<br />
<b>1) Bobby Bryant:</b> A playmaker at cornerback, Bryant was selected to two
Pro Bowls in 13 seasons, playing in 161 games and starting 121 from 1968-1980.
He is second in team history with 51 interceptions and second in passes
defensed with 77. He also recovered 14 fumbles and scored four touchdowns, in
addition to coming up with a number of big plays in playoff games during the
1970's. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-48451841053707675182018-01-17T10:06:00.000-08:002018-01-17T10:06:48.493-08:00The best linebackers in Minnesota Vikings history <div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The best linebackers in Minnesota Vikings history <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
The Vikings have had some outstanding linebackers who played important roles in
the team's dominant defenses through the years; here are the eleven best.<br />
<br />
<b>11) Mike Merriweather:</b> Starting each of the 63 games he appeared in from
1989-92, Merriweather registered 10 sacks and intercepted 7 passes, returning
two for touchdowns. He also recovered 7 fumbles, taking one back for a score.
Remembered for blocking a punt in an overtime game against the Rams that
bounced out of the end zone for a safety, winning the game for the Vikes<b>. </b><br />
<br />
<b>10) Jack Del Rio:</b> Selected to one Pro Bowl in four seasons, Del Rio
started all 57 games he played in from 1992-95. He intercepted 10 passes,
returning one for a touchdown; recorded 7.5 QB sacks; forced three fumbles, and
recovered five. <br />
<br />
<b>9) Chad Greenway: </b></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">A two time Pro Bowl selection, Greenway
played in 156 games, starting 144, in a ten year career with Minnesota from
2007-2016. He recorded 18 quarterback sacks, forced 8 fumbles and recovered 11,
and intercepted 11 passes, returning two for touchdowns.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
<br />
<b>8) Lonnie Warwick:</b> Warwick played in 92 games and started 75 from
1965-1972. The middle linebacker in a defense that dominated opponents, he intercepted 12 passes, recorded 7.5 sacks
and recovered 6 fumbles in his eight year career with the Vikes. <br />
<br />
<b>7) Fred McNeil:</b> Playing in 167 games and starting 122 at outside
linebacker during his 12 years with the team from 1974-1985, McNeil recovered
16 fumbles, intercepted 7 passes, and recorded 13 quarterback sacks. <br />
<br />
<b>6) Ed McDaniel:</b> The team leader in tackles for loss with 90.5, he ranks
second among Viking linebackers with 20.5 sacks. McDaniel is also sixth on the
team with 17 forced fumbles. He has 5 fumble recoveries, intercepted 4 passes
and was named to the Pro Bowl once during his nine seasons and 125 games, 109
starts, from 1992-2001 with the Vikings. <br />
<br />
<b>5) Wally Hilgenberg:</b> A tough outside linebacker on the Vikings' great
defenses of the late 60's and throughout the 70's, Hilgenberg played in 158
games, starting 118, in 12 seasons from 1968-1979. He recovered 13 fumbles,
recorded 8 sacks, picked off 8 passes and scored two touchdowns. <br />
<br />
<b>4) Roy Winston:</b> In 15 seasons from 1962-1976 Winston played in 191
games, starting 158 at outside linebacker on dominant Viking defenses in the
late '60's and early '70's. A playmaker, he had 16 sacks and 14 fumble
recoveries, third and fourth among linebackers, and 12 interceptions,
second among linebackers, and scored 3 touchdowns. He also is fifth all-time
with 68 tackles-for-loss. <br />
<br />
<b>3) Scott Studwell:</b> Fifth in team history with 201 games played, Studwell
started 161 at middle linebacker and was selected to the Pro Bowl twice in his
14 year career from 1977-1990. He forced 12 fumbles, recovered 15, intercepted
11 passes, and had 9 QB sacks. He ranks ninth with 46 tackles-for-loss. <br />
<br />
<b>2) Jeff Siemon:</b> A key player as the middle linebacker on the team's top
defenses in the mid-1970's, Siemon played in 156 games, starting 123, and was
selected to four Pro Bowls during his eleven year career with the Vikings from
1972-1982. He is ninth in team history with 14 forced fumbles;
he recovered 11, had 6 QB sacks, and 11 interceptions. <br />
<br />
<b>1) Matt Blair:</b> Selected to six Pro Bowls in his 12 seasons from
1974-1985, Blair played in 160 games, starting 130. He is first among Minnesota
linebackers, and fourth and third in team history, with 19 forced fumbles and
20 fumble recoveries. He is also tenth on the team in tackles-for-loss with 44.
His 23 sacks and 16 interceptions are first among Vikings linebackers. He also
blocked 20 kicks in his career. Blair is the best linebacker in Minnesota's
history. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-33671462220942995242018-01-17T08:41:00.000-08:002018-01-17T08:41:34.868-08:00The Best Defensive Ends in Minnesota Vikings history<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The best defensive ends in Minnesota Vikings history <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">NFL defensive ends have varied
responsibilities on the field; they have to contain runners with the ball to
the inside - no one should get to their outside. They must be able to shed
blockers to get to the ball and make tackles behind the line, as well as shut
down screen passes. Most importantly they have to pressure quarterbacks on
passing plays, either sacking them for a loss or hurrying them into throwing an
incompletion or interception. <br />
<br />
Some of the Vikings' defensive ends have been the best in NFL history. Here are
the top ten: <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">10)
Neil Elshire: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">From 1981-1986 Elshire
appeared in 63 games, starting 27, and registered 19 QB sacks in six seasons,
with a high of 9.5 in 1983.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">9)
Ray Edwards: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In five seasons from
2006-2010 Edwards played in 72 games, starting 58, and recorded 29.5 sacks,
with 8.5 coming in 2009.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">8)
Al Noga: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scoring two touchdowns
on one interception and three fumble recoveries, Noga had 29.5 QB sacks in five
years from 1988-1992, with 11.5 in 1989. He played in 73 games, starting 56.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">7)
Brian Robison: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In eleven seasons from
2007-2017 Robison has played in 173 games, starting 103. He has registered 60
QB sacks, forced 13 fumbles, and recovered 8.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">6)
Everson Griffen: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Named to three Pro
Bowls in eight seasons from 2010-2017, Griffen has played in 121 games,
starting 63. He has 61 sacks, forced 9 fumbles and recovered 6, returning one
for a TD, and also intercepted one pass, running it in for a score.<br />
<br />
<b>5) Doug Martin:</b> A former first round pick, Martin started and ended his
career with the team on controversial notes, but was a pretty good player on
the field in ten seasons from 1980-1989. He played in 126 games, starting 94,
and recorded 60.5 sacks and 7 fumble recoveries. <br />
<br />
<b>4) Jared Allen:</b> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Named to the Pro Bowl four times in his six years with the team
from 2008-2013, Allen's 88.5 sacks place him sixth in team history. He also
intercepted 4 passes, forced 16 fumbles, recovered 9, and registered 4 safeties
while starting all 96 games he appeared in at right end.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <br />
<br />
<b>3)</b> <b>Chris Doleman:</b> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Doleman played
in 154 games, starting 142, in 10 seasons with the Vikings from 1985-1993 and
1999. He leads the team with 33 forced fumbles, is fifth in sacks with
96.5, sixth in fumble recoveries with 16, and seventh in tackles-for-loss
with 60. He also intercepted five passes, scored two touchdowns, and recorded
two safeties. <br />
<br />
<b>2)</b> <b>Jim Marshall:</b> Starting all 270 games in which he played as a
Viking at right defensive end from 1961-1979, Marshall is second in team
history with 127 QB sacks, first with 29 fumble recoveries, and fourth in
tackle-for-loss with 74. A two time Pro Bowl selection, he deserves to be in
the Hall of Fame. <br />
<br />
<b>1)</b> <b>Carl Eller:</b> The team's all-time leader in QB sacks with 130,
Eller was selected to six Pro Bowls. He ranks second in tackles-for-loss with
87, second in fumble recoveries with 23, and seventh in forced fumbles with 15.
He also blocked 15 kicks. Eller played in 209 games, fourth in team history,
and started 201 from 1964-1978. He was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in
2004, an honor that was long overdue. Eller is the best defensive end in
Vikings' history as well as one of the NFL's all-time bests. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
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</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
<br />
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</div>
</div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-83853292567879763592018-01-17T07:39:00.000-08:002018-01-17T07:39:51.779-08:00The best defensive tackles in Minnesota Vikings history <div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The best defensive tackles in Minnesota Vikings history <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A defensive tackle in pro football may be called
upon to fill several different roles, including holding the point of attack and
stopping the run, or penetrating a certain gap between offensive linemen to
break up a play in the opponent's backfield. A defensive tackle is an important
pass rusher as well, since inside pressure may help to free the defensive ends
or blitzing linebackers in their pass rush.<br />
<br />
The Vikings have had a number of outstanding tackles during their seasons when
they fielded dominant defenses. Here are the top ten at the position in
franchise history:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">10)
Paul Dickson: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In ten years with the
Vikings from 1961-1970 Dickson played in 129 games, starting 81. He registered
29 QB sacks and recovered three fumbles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">9)
Pat Williams: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Named to three Pro
Bowls in six years with Minnesota from 2005-2010, Williams started all 93 games
he played in, forcing five fumbles, recovering four, with 7.5 sacks.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">8)
Linval Joseph: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Starting all 60 games
he has played in during four seasons, Joseph has recorded 11 sacks, forced four
fumbles and recovered one, and has been named to one Pro Bowl.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">7) Doug Sutherland:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Sutherland played in 138 games during his 10
years with the Vikings, starting 90. He plugged the middle of the defensive
line at left tackle during the mid 1970's when the team had highly rated defenses.
<br />
<br />
<b>6) Keith Millard:</b> Selected All-Pro and to the Pro Bowl twice, Millard
was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1989 when he recorded 18 sacks.
Millard was a key piece of the team's outstanding defenses in the late '80's,
appearing in 75 games during his six years with the Vikes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5) Henry Thomas:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Selected to two Pro Bowls while appearing in
118 games and starting 117 in eight seasons, Thomas ranks sixth in
tackles-for-loss with 62. He is eleventh with 56 sacks, forced 12 fumbles,
and recovered 8, returning two for touchdowns. He also had two interceptions
and notched a safety.<br />
<br />
<b>4) Kevin Williams:</b> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A six
time Pro Bowl selection, Williams started all 171 games he appeared in during
11 seasons with the Vikings. He ranks eighth with 60 QB sacks, knocked down 66
passes, forced 8 fumbles, and recovered 13, returning two for touchdowns.
Williams also intercepted 5 passes, bring back two for scores.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
<br />
<b>3) Gary Larsen:</b> A member of one of the best front fours in NFL history,
Larsen was a crucial part of the team’s dominant defenses in the late ‘60’s and
early ‘70’s. He played in 135 games, starting 107, in 10 seasons for the
Vikings. He recorded 37 sacks, recovered 10 fumbles, and was named to two Pro
Bowls. <br />
<br />
<b>2) John Randle:</b> A standout defensive tackle who played in 176 games and
started 150, Randle was named to six Pro Bowls in his 11 seasons with the
Vikings. He recovered 9 fumbles, ranks third in forced fumbles with 25, and is
third in QB sacks with 114. He was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2010. <br />
<br />
<b>1) Alan Page:</b> A defensive tackle who changed the game in the late 1960's
and early 1970's, Page was named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1971. Selected
to the Pro Bowl nine times in his 12 years with the Vikings, he played in 160
games and started 157. He is fourth in team history with 108.5 sacks, fourth
with 18 fumble recoveries, third with 77 tackles-for-loss, and second with 28
forced fumbles. Page was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1988. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-65808629942543654032018-01-12T12:09:00.000-08:002018-01-12T12:09:17.604-08:00The best offensive tackles in Minnesota Vikings history <div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><u>The
best offensive tackles in Minnesota Vikings history</u> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Vikings have had
some pretty good blockers manning the offensive tackle position through the
years. Here is a look at the top players in team history at the position:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5) Steve Riley -</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> A first round pick in 1974, Riley started 121
games at left tackle during his 11 year career, protecting the blind side of
quarterbacks Fran Tarkenton and Tommy Kramer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">4) Gary Zimmerman -</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Named to three Pro Bowls in his seven years
with the Vikings Zimmerman held down left tackle for 108 consecutive games
during the late '80's and early 90's. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3) Tim Irwin -</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> During his 13 years with the team he played
in 188 games, starting 181 at right tackle. Standing at 6-7, he also blocked a
few extra points and field goals while on the special teams unit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2) Grady Alderman -</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Holding down left tackle on offense for 13
years - 1961-1973 - Alderman played in 193 games, starting 174, and was
selected to the Pro Bowl six times. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1) Ron Yary -</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Selected to the Pro Bowl seven times in his
14 years with the Vikings, Yary played in 199 games and started 180 at right
offensive tackle. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-72249961081527427692018-01-12T11:27:00.000-08:002018-01-12T11:29:44.257-08:00The best Offensive Guards in Minnesota Vikings history <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>The best
Offensive Guards in Minnesota Vikings history</u></strong> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Guards on NFL
offensive lines are often overlooked but play key roles in a team's offense.
They have to block quick defensive players trying to get to the quarterback on
passing plays as well as move big defensive tackles out of the way on running
plays. The Vikings have had some steady players at the position in franchise
history. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">10) Chris Liwienski:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> Played in 94
games and started 74 in seven seasons from 1998-2005.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">9) Terry Tausch:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> In seven years
from 1982-1988 played in 81 games, starting 68.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">8) Jim Hough:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> Played in 111 games and started 75 from 1978-86. Bud Grant said
Hough should have been selected to the Pro Bowl after the 1983 season. <br />
<br />
<b>7) Wes Hamilton:</b> From 1976-84 Hamilton played in 116 games, starting 92.
He blocked for QB's Fran Tarkenton and Tommy Kramer and led the way for RB's
Chuck Foreman and Ted Brown. <br />
<br />
<b>6) Charles Goodrum:</b> Playing in 95 games and starting 72 from 1973-79,
Goodrum opened holes for Foreman and protected Tarkenton during the team's
dominant seasons. <br />
<br />
<b>5) Steve Hutchinson:</b> Named to four Pro Bowls during his six years with
the team from 2006-11, Hutchinson started all 89 games that he played in during
his tenure with the Vikings. <br />
<br />
<b>4) David Dixon:</b> Dixon played in 152 games during eleven seasons for the
Vikings. He started 134 of those games at right guard, clearing the way for
runners such as Robert Smith, Leroy Hoard, and Michael Bennett. <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">3) Milt Sunde:</span></strong>
A former 20th round pick, Sunde played in 147 games at left guard and right
guard, starting 106, including the team's dominant season in 1969.
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">2) Ed White:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> Selected to three Pro Bowls in his eight years with the team,
White played in 122 games and started 94 at guard during the team's dominant
run in the early and mid-1970's. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">1) Randall
McDaniel:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> Selected to the Pro Bowl a record 12 times
in his 12 years with the Vikings, he played in 190 games, starting 188 at left
guard. McDaniel was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-64938226512954212682018-01-12T10:13:00.000-08:002018-01-12T10:13:30.779-08:00The best Centers in Minnesota Vikings history
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><u>The best Centers in Minnesota Vikings history</u> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 12pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The importance of the Center in NFL offenses
cannot be overlooked. They have to block quick defensive players trying to get
to the quarterback on passing plays as well as move big defensive tackles out
of the way on running plays. The Vikings have had some steady players at the
position in franchise history.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5) Dennis Swilley: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">While skipping the 1984 season, Swilley was
good enough to play in 139 and start 101 games at center during his ten years,
1977-1987, with the team.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">4) Kirk Lowdermilk:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Playing in 114 and starting 86 games in eight
years from 1985-1992, Lowdermilk manned the position during some outstanding
seasons for Vikings’ offenses.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3) Jeff Christy: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A former practice squad player, Christy played
in 101 started 92 games at center during seven seasons from 1993-1999, and was
named to two Pro Bowls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2) Matt Birk:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> In his ten year Viking career Birk played in
146 and started 123 games at the pivot from 1998-2008, earning six Pro Bowl
nods while snapping the ball at center.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1) Mick Tingelhoff:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Tingelhoff
started every Viking game at center from 1962 through 1977, 240 consecutive
games in all. He anchored the Vikings offensive line during all of their
championship seasons and was elected to the NFL Hall of Fame in 2015.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-60275331239388485302018-01-12T09:42:00.000-08:002018-01-12T09:42:19.209-08:00The best Tight Ends in Minnesota Vikings history
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><u>The best Tight Ends in Minnesota Vikings history</u> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Because of the hybrid nature of the position,
the tight end's role in any given offense depends on the tactical preferences
and philosophy of the team's coaches. In some systems, the tight end will act
as a sixth offensive lineman, rarely going out for passes. Other systems use
the tight end primarily as a receiver, taking advantage of the tight end's size
to create mismatches in the defensive secondary. The Vikings have had a number
of tight ends who have contributed to their teams' success through the years;
here are the seven best:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">7) John Beasley: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In his six years with the team from 1967-1973
Beasley played in 75 games, starting 48, and was the starting tight end on
Minnesota’s 1969 championship team. He averaged 10.8 yards on 115 receptions,
while scoring 12 touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">6) Joe Senser: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A promising career cut short by a knee injury,
Senser played in 49 games, starting 26, from 1980-1984, and was selected to the
Pro Bowl after the 1981 season, when he caught 79 passes for 1,004 yards, a
12.7 average, and 8 touchdowns. His career totals are 165 receptions with an
11.0 average and 16 touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">5) Visanthe Shiancoe: </span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">In the five years from 2007-2011 Shiancoe played in
80 games, starting 66. He caught 208 passes for a 11.7 yard per reception
average and 24 touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span><strong>4) Jim Kleinsasser: </strong>Doing the dirty work as a blocker at
tight end, Kleinsasser played in 181 games, starting 130, during 13 seasons
with the team. He caught 192 balls for 8.8 yards average and scored 6
touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span><strong>3) Kyle Rudolph:</strong> In seven years Rudolph has played in 96 games,
starting 88, and was named to one Pro Bowl. He has caught 322 passes with a 9.8
yard average and 37 touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2) Stu Voigt:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Voigt was a steady tight end during his 11
years and 131 games, 80 starts, with the team. Contributing during the team's <a href="http://voices.yahoo.com/topic/12189/super_bowl.html" title="super bowl"><span style="color: #2288bb; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Super Bowl</span></a> seasons
in the mid-'70's, he caught 177 passes with a 10.8 average per catch and 17
touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1) Steve Jordan: </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A six time Pro Bowl selection, Jordan was a
consistent and durable tight end, appearing in 176 games and starting 149 in 13
seasons. He had 498 receptions, a 12.7 average yards per catch, and scored 28
touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-47667197088993128842018-01-12T08:43:00.000-08:002018-01-12T08:43:06.499-08:00The best Wide Receivers in Minnesota Vikings history
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><u>The best Wide Receivers in Minnesota Vikings history</u> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">10) Percy Harvin: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">While better known
as a kick returner, Harvin played 54 games at wide receiver in four seasons
from 2009-2012, catching 280 balls for a 11.8 average and 20 touchdowns.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">9) Hassan Jones: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In seven seasons
from 1986-1992 Jones played in 100 games, catching 222 passes for a 16.8 yards
per catch average and 24 touchdowns.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">8) Jake Reed:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Reed played in 134 games and started 83
during his 10 years with the team, 1991-1999, and 2001. His 413 catches rank
fourth in team history, and his 33 touchdown receptions are good for sixth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">7) Gene Washington:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Playing in 81 games in his six seasons with the
Vikings from 1967-1972, Washington was named to the Pro Bowl twice and was the
team's top receiver in the 1969 championship season, scoring 9 touchdowns and
averaging 21.1 yards per catch.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">6) John Gilliam:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Named to the Pro Bowl after each of his four
seasons with the team from 1972-1975, while playing in 56 games, Gilliam's 20
yard average-per-reception is by far highest among Viking players with at least
100 catches. He scored 27 touchdowns. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5) Ahmad Rashad:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Selected to four Pro Bowls in his seven years
with the team from 1976-1982, Rashad had 400 receptions and scored 34
touchdowns in 98 games. He was part of one of the most memorable plays in NFL
history, catching a touchdown pass on the game's last play against the Browns
in 1980.<br />
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<b>4) Sammy White:</b> A two time Pro Bowler, White played in 128 games,
starting 118, from 1976-1985, averaging 16.3 yards per catch. His 50 touchdown
receptions are fourth in team history.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3) Randy Moss:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> A five time Pro Bowl selection during his seven
seasons and 113 games, 101 starts,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>with
Minnesota from 1998-2003 and 2010, Moss is second in team history in a number
of receiving categories, including 587 receptions, 9,316 yards, and 92
touchdowns.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2) Anthony Carter:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> A dynamic game-changing receiver, Carter
averaged 16 yards per catch and is third in team history with 478 receptions,
7,636 yards and 52 touchdowns. Selected to the Pro Bowl three times, he played
in 133 games and started 125 in his nine years with the team from 1985-1993.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1) Cris Carter:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Selected to 8 consecutive Pro Bowls in his 12
years with the team from 1990-2001, Carter played in 188 games, starting 177.
He holds most Viking receiving records, including 1,004 receptions, 12,383
yards, and 110 touchdowns. He ranks fourth all-time in NFL history in
receptions and touchdown catches, and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2013.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-54619021614916510942018-01-12T07:46:00.000-08:002018-01-12T07:46:44.623-08:00The best running backs in Minnesota Vikings history <div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong><u>The best running backs in Minnesota Vikings history</u> <o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Vikings have had several great running
backs through the years, although the position has not seen as many strong
players as other positions through the years. Here are the ten best in
franchise history.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
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<!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">10) Alfred Anderson: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anderson was a
decent role player for the Vikings from 1984-1991, rushing for 2,374 yards in
108 games during eight seasons with the team.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">9) Terry Allen:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">While
only on the team’s active roster for 47 games in three seasons from 1991-1994,
Allen ran for over 1,000 yards in two of those years<b>, </b>with 2,795 total
rushing yards and 72 receptions.</span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">8) Chester Taylor:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">In
four years and 61 games from 2006-2009, Taylor rushed for over 1,000 yards
once. He totaled 2,797 yards on the ground and caught 160 passes out of the
backfield.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
<b>7) Tommy Mason:</b> <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The Vikings’
first-ever draft pick, Mason played in 70 games in seven seasons from 1961-66,
and is eighth in team history with 3,252 rushing yards. He was selected to
three Pro Bowls<b>.</b></span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">6) Ted Brown:</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Brown played in 106 games during his eight
year career with Minnesota from 1979-1986, ranking fifth on the team's rushing
list with 4,546 yards and seventh in scoring with 53 touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5) Dave Osborn:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> A tough runner and reliable receiver out of the
backfield, Osborn's 4,320 rushing yards rank sixth in team history. He was
named to one Pro Bowl during his 11 years and 137 games with the team from
1965-1975.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">4) Robert Smith:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> A two time Pro Bowl selection, Smith played in
98 games during his eight seasons with the team from 1993-2000, rushing for
6,818 yards, second in team history.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3) Adrian Peterson:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> In ten seasons and 123 games, Peterson holds
the Viking record in rushing yards with 11,747 and is first in rushing
touchdowns with 97. A seven time Pro Bowl selection.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2) Bill Brown:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> A tough runner, he is in fourth place in
rushing yards with 5,757 and second with 52 touchdowns on the ground. He added
286 receptions and another 23 TD's as a receiver out of the backfield. Brown
played in 180 games during 13 seasons from 1962-1974 and was selected four
times to the Pro Bowl.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1) Chuck Foreman:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> An exceptional runner and receiver who could
turn around a game, Foreman was selected to the Pro Bowl five times and to one
All-Pro team in his seven seasons and 93 games in Minnesota from 1973-1979. He is
third in team history with 5,887 rushing yards and 52 touchdowns, and caught
336 passes for another 23 scores.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-30006658655975743662018-01-12T07:32:00.000-08:002018-10-04T08:14:46.308-07:00The Most Over-Rated Minnesota Vikings of All Time<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><strong><u>Who were the most over-rated Minnesota Vikings of all time?</u></strong></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Sometimes coaches and general managers draft or trade for players who they think will put their team "over the top" and lead them to a Super Bowl. It doesn't always work out that way though. Here are some of the Vikings who were not worth the high draft pick or the trade that brought them to Minnesota.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">10) Warren Moon, QB:</span></strong> Another one of Dennis Green's silly decisions, bringing in a washed up quarterback and the end of his career, in the hopes of catching lightning in a bottle. Didn't work out, as Moon's three years in Minnesota resulted in a big nothing.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">9) E.J Henderson, LB:</span></strong> Started a lot of games for the Vikings but never really lived up to the hype that accompanied him coming out of college. Was basically an average linebacker, and never dominated opponents.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">8) Randall Cunningham, QB: </span></strong>Only had a great year in 1998 because he was surrounded by other outstanding players on offense, and had coach Brian Billick calling the plays. Choked in the team's NFC championship game, and there's no way he should have been kept on for the 1999 season over QB Brad Johnson.<br /><br /><b>7) Darrin Nelson, RB:</b> A much heralded first round pick in 1982, Nelson did not become a standout running back the team had envisioned. He never rushed for 1,000 yards in a season and wasn't very explosive, averaging only 8.8 yards per reception, 8.0 yards per punt return, and 22.4 yards on kick returns. The Vikings passed up Hall of Fame running back Marcus Allen to take Nelson. Big mistake. <br /><br /><b>6) Mark Mullaney, DE:</b> Although he played in 151 games and started 97 in his 12 years with the team, Mullaney didn't seem to learn much from playing behind great ends Carl Eller and Jim Marshall. He never came close to being even an average pass rusher, let alone one that was worth a first round selection. A symbol of the Vikes' mediocrity from 1979 through the mid-1980's.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">5) James White, DT:</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> Although a first round draft pick, White didn't exactly turn out to be the next Alan Page. Started 61 games for Bud Grant during his eight years with the team. Not sure why Grant cut Page, thus making White the regular RDT; Bud must have been an optimist. White didn't even make Les Steckel's 1984 mess of team, being waived at the end of training camp. <br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">4) David Palmer, WR:</span></strong> Before the start of each season coach Dennis Green would rave about "his" 1994 second round pick Palmer. What did Palmer produce in his seven year career? A mere 9.9 yard average on punt returns, only 22.6 yards on kickoffs, and no more than 26 receptions in a season, with a career average of 8.6 yards per catch. Whee! <br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">3) Duante Culpepper, QB:</span></strong> Culpepper only had two good years (2000 & 2004) but was still named to many "50 Greatest Vikings of All Time" lists. Why? He was mediocre most of the time and hardly worthy of a first round draft pick. He's just another one of Denny Green's "guys" who never panned out. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">2) Bryant McKinnie, OT:</span></strong> Why was this guy named to some Greatest Vikings of All-Time lists? McKinnie was reliable but was never a standout. The team has had other offensive tackles who were much better players. <br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">1) Herschel Walker, RB:</span></strong> Obviously wasn't worth what the Vikings gave up for him. Never even rushed for a thousand yards once in his three years with the team. What a disaster.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-49482326734439060552018-01-10T10:25:00.002-08:002018-01-10T10:25:55.104-08:00Christopher J: The 57 Best Minnesota Vikings of All Time<a href="http://christopherj151515.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-57-best-minnesota-vikings-of-all.html?spref=bl">Christopher J: The 57 Best Minnesota Vikings of All Time</a>: Seven years ago in honor of the Minnesota Vikings 50th season, fans voted for the best 50 Vikings of all time. Longtime head coach Bud...Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7762249444424789193.post-66882552280763265642018-01-10T10:25:00.000-08:002018-01-10T10:25:18.519-08:00The 57 Best Minnesota Vikings of All Time
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Seven years ago in honor of the <a href="http://voices.yahoo.com/topic/12407/minnesota_vikings.html" title="Minnesota Vikings"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Minnesota Vikings</span></a> 50th season, fans voted for
the best 50 Vikings of all time. Longtime head coach Bud Grant was included on
that list, but this one ranks only players. Being that 2017 is the 57<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
season in the franchise's history, the top 57 are included here. Selection and
ranking were based on longevity (seasons with the team), individual statistics
and honors, the player's contribution to the team's wins, and overall team
success during the player's tenure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">57) Doug
Martin, DE:</span></strong> A former first round pick, Martin started and ended
his career with the team on controversial notes, but was a pretty good player
on the field during the early and mid-1980's. He played in 126 games, starting
94, and his 60.5 sacks rank eighth in team history. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">
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<strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">56) Steve Riley, OT:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A
first round pick in 1974, Riley started 121 games at left tackle during his 11
year career, protecting the blind side of quarterbacks Fran Tarkenton and Tommy
Kramer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">55) Lonnie Warwick, MLB:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">
Warwick played in 92 games and started 75. The middle linebacker in a defense
that dominated opponents' offenses in 1968, 1969, and 1970, he intercepted 12
passes, recorded 7.5 sacks and recovered 6 fumbles in his eight year career
with the Vikes. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">54) Ted Brown, RB:</span></strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Brown played in 106
games during his eight year career with Minnesota, ranking fifth on the team's
rushing list with 4,546 yards and seventh in scoring with 53 touchdowns.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<br />
<b>53) Greg Coleman, P:</b> Coleman was steady during his ten years with the
team from 1977-1987, punting in 138 games, still the team record.<br />
<br />
<b>52) Gene Washington, WR:</b> Playing in 81 games in his six seasons with the
Vikings, Washington was named to the Pro Bowl in 1969 and 1970 and was the
team's top receiver during those dominant years.<br />
</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<b>51) Stu Voigt, TE:</b> Voigt was a steady tight end during his 11 years and
131 games with the team, contributing during the team's <a href="http://voices.yahoo.com/topic/12189/super_bowl.html" title="super bowl"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Super Bowl</span></a>
seasons in the mid-'70's.<span style="color: black;"><br />
<br />
<b>50) Fred Cox, K:</b> The Vikings placekicker from 1963 through 1977 appeared
in 210 games and is the team's all-time scoring leader with 1,365 points.<br />
<br />
<b>49) Dave Osborn, RB:</b> A tough runner and reliable receiver out of the
backfield, Osborn's 4,320 rushing yards rank sixth in team history. He was
named to one Pro Bowl during his 11 years and 137 games with the team.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">48) Robert Smith, RB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A two time Pro Bowl
selection, Smith played in 98 games during his eight seasons with the team,
rushing for 6,818 yards, second in team history.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">47)</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span><strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Chad
Greenway, LB: </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">A two time Pro Bowl selection, Greenway played in 156 games, starting
144, in a ten year career with Minnesota from 2007-2016. He recorded 18
quarterback sacks, forced 8 fumbles and recovered 11, and intercepted 11
passes, returning two for touchdowns.</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<b>46) Doug Sutherland, DT:</b> Sutherland played in 138 games during his 10
years with the Vikings, starting 90. He plugged the middle of the defensive
line at left tackle during the mid-1970's when the team had highly rated
defenses.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">45) Nate Wright, CB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A steady cornerback
during the mid-1970's when the team led the league each year in many defensive
categories, Wright played in 129 games, starting 89, in his ten years with the
team. He ranks 5th with 31 interceptions and knocked down 55 passes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">44) John Gilliam, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Named to the Pro Bowl
after each of his four seasons with the team, Gilliam's 20 yard
average-per-reception is by far highest among Viking players with at least 100
catches.<br />
<br />
<b>43) Ed Sharockman, CB:</b> A consistent defensive back on Minnesota's great
defenses of the late '60's and early '70's, Sharockman played in 142 games,
starting 121, during his 12 years with the team. He ranks third with 40
interceptions, returning four for touchdowns, and also recovered 9 fumbles.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span><strong>42) Keith Millard, DT: </strong>Selected All-Pro and
to the Pro Bowl twice, Millard was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in
1989 when he recorded 18 sacks. Millard was a key piece of the team's
outstanding defenses in the late '80's, appearing in 75 games during his six
years with the Vikes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">41) Fred McNeil, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Playing in 167 games
and starting 122 at outside linebacker during his 12 years with the team,
McNeil recovered 16 fumbles, intercepted 7 passes, and recorded 13 quarterback
sacks.
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">40) Ed McDaniel, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> The team leader in
tackles for loss with 90.5, he ranks second among Viking linebackers with 20.5
sacks. McDaniel is also sixth on the team with 17 forced fumbles. He has 5
fumble recoveries, intercepted 4 passes and was named to the Pro Bowl once
during his nine seasons and 125 games, 109 starts, with the Vikings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">39) Karl Kassulke, S:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Another key player on
the team's outstanding defenses in the late 60's and early '70's, Kassulke
played in 131 games at safety, starting 121, intercepting 19 passes. Selected
to one Pro Bowl, he had 9 fumble recoveries and his 8 sacks are third among
defensive backs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">38) Wally Hilgenberg, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A tough outside linebacker
on the Vikings' great defenses of the late 60's and throughout the 70's,
Hilgenberg played in 158 games, starting 118, in 12 seasons. He recovered 13
fumbles, recorded 8 sacks, picked off 8 passes and scored two touchdowns.<br />
<br />
<b>37) Jared Allen, DE:</b> Named to the Pro Bowl four times in his six years
with the team, Allen's 88.5 sacks place him sixth in team history. He also
intercepted 4 passes, forced 16 fumbles, recovered 9, and registered 4 safeties
while starting all 96 games he appeared in at right end.<br />
<br />
<b>36) Antoine Winfield, CB:</b> Selected to three Pro Bowls during his nine
years with the Vikings, he played in 119 games, starting 115. Of Winfield's 21
interceptions two were returned for touchdowns. He defensed 73 passes, which is
fourth in team history, recorded 6.5 QB sacks, forced 11 fumbles and recovered
9, returning two of those for touchdowns as well.<br />
<br />
<b>35) Tommy Kramer, QB:</b> While injured often during his 13 years with the
Vikes, Kramer did start 110 games at quarterback and ranks second in most passing
categories, including yards and touchdowns.<br />
<br />
<b>34) Ed White, OG:</b> Selected to three Pro Bowls in his eight years with
the team, White played in 122 games and started 94 at guard during the team's
dominant run in the early and mid-1970's.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">33) Gary Zimmerman, OT:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Named to three Pro
Bowls in his seven years with the Vikings Zimmerman held down left tackle for
108 consecutive games during the late '80's and early 90's.<br />
<br />
<b>32) Matt Birk, C:</b> Birk played in 146 games and started 123 from
1998-2008, earning six Pro Bowl nods while snapping the ball at center.<br />
<br />
<b>31) Tim Irwin, OT:</b> During his 13 years with the team he played in 188
games, starting 181 at right tackle. Standing at 6-7, he also blocked a few
extra points and field goals while on the special teams unit.<br />
<br />
<b>30) Henry Thomas, DT:</b> Selected to two Pro Bowls while appearing in 118
games and starting 117 in 8 years, Thomas ranks sixth in tackles-for-loss with
62. He is ninth with 56 sacks, forced 12 fumbles, and recovered 8, returning
two for touchdowns. He also had two interceptions and notched a safety.<br />
<br />
<b>29) Kevin Williams, DT:</b> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Williams started
all 171 games he<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>appeared in over 11
seasons. He ranks eighth with 60 QB sacks, knocked down 66 passes, forced 8
fumbles, and recovered 13, returning two for touchdowns. Williams also
intercepted 5 passes, bring back two for scores.<br />
<br />
<b>28) Grady Alderman, OT:</b> Holding down left tackle on offense for 14
years, Alderman played in 193 games, starting 174, and was selected to the Pro
Bowl six times.<br />
<br />
<b>27) Gary Larsen, DT:</b> A member of one of the best front fours in NFL
history, defensive tackle Larsen played in 135 games, starting 107, in 10
seasons for the Vikings. He recorded 37 sacks, recovered 10 fumbles, and was
named to two Pro Bowls.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">26) Ahmad Rashad, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Selected to four Pro
Bowls in his seven years with the team, Rashad had 400 receptions and scored 34
touchdowns in 98 games. He was part of one of the most memorable plays in NFL
history, catching a touchdown pass on the game's last play against the Browns
in 1980.<br />
<br />
<b>25) Sammy White, WR:</b> A two time Pro Bowler, White played in 128 games,
starting 118, and was the team's top receiver in the late '70's, averaging 16.3
yards per catch. His 50 touchdown receptions are fourth in team history.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">24) Randy Moss, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A five time Pro Bowl selection during
his seven seasons and 113 games with Minnesota, Moss is second in team history
in a number of receiving categories, including 587 receptions, 9,316 yards, and
92 touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">23) Steve Jordan, TE:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A six time Pro Bowl
selection, Jordan was a consistent and durable tight end, appearing in 176
games and starting 149 in 13 seasons. He had 498 receptions and scored 28
touchdowns.<br />
<br />
<b>22) Carl Lee, CB:</b> Selected three times to the Pro Bowl, Lee played in
169 games, starting 144, during 11 seasons with the team. A key player at
cornerback on the team's great defenses in the late 1980's, he is the all-time
leader in passes defensed with 128, recovered 6 fumbles, and is sixth with 29
interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">21) Roy Winston, LB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> In 15 seasons Winston
played in 191 games, starting 158 at outside linebacker on dominant Viking
defenses in the late '60's and early '70's. A playmaker, he had 16 sacks,
fourth among linebackers, and 14 fumble recoveries, third among linebackers, and
12 interceptions, second among linebackers, while scoring 3 touchdowns. He also
is fifth all-time with 68 tackles-for-loss.<br />
<br />
<b>20) Bill Brown, RB:</b> A tough runner, he is in fourth place in rushing
yards with 5,757 and second with 52 touchdowns. He added 286 receptions and
another 23 TD's as a receiver out of the backfield. Brown played in 180 games
during 13 seasons and was selected four times to the Pro Bowl.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">19) Bobby Bryant, CB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A playmaker at
cornerback, Bryant was selected to two Pro Bowls in 13 seasons, playing in 161
games and starting 127. He is second in team history with 51 interceptions and
second in passes defensed with 77. He also recovered 14 fumbles and scored four
touchdowns, in addition to coming up with a number of big plays in playoff
games.<br />
<br />
<b>18) Scott Studwell, MLB:</b> Fifth in team history with 201 games played,
Studwell started 161 at middle linebacker and was selected to the Pro Bowl
twice. He forced 12 fumbles, recovered 16, intercepted 11 passes, and had 9 QB
sacks. He ranks ninth with 46 tackles-for-loss.
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">17) Jeff Siemon, MLB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A key player as the
middle linebacker on the team's top defenses in the mid-1970's, Siemon played
in 156 games, starting 123, and was selected to four Pro Bowls. He forced 14
fumbles, recovered 11, had 6 QB sacks, and 11 interceptions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
16) Anthony Carter, WR:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A dynamic game-changing receiver,
Carter averaged 16 yards per catch and is third in team history with 478
receptions, 7,636 yards and 52 touchdowns. Selected to the Pro Bowl three
times, he played in 133 games and started 125 in his nine years with the team.<br />
<br />
<b>15) Joey Browner, S:</b> Selected to the Pro Bowl as a safety six times in
his nine seasons, Browner played in 145 games, starting 117. He is fourth in
interceptions with 37, third in passes defensed with 76, fifth in forced
fumbles with 18, and fifth in fumble recoveries in 17. He also recorded 9.5 QB
sacks, first among Viking defensive backs, and scored 4 touchdowns.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">14) Adrian Peterson, RB:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> After ten seasons and
123 games, Peterson holds the Viking record in rushing yards with 11,747 and is
first in rushing touchdowns with 97. A seven time Pro Bowl selection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">
<b>13) Chuck Foreman, RB:</b> An exceptional runner and receiver who could turn
around a game, Foreman was selected to the Pro Bowl five times in his seven
seasons in Minnesota. He rushed for 5,887 yards and 52 touchdowns, and caught
336 passes for another 23 scores.<br />
<br />
<b>12) Chris Doleman, DE:</b> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Doleman played in
154 games, starting 142, in 10 seasons with the Vikings. He leads the team with
33 forced fumbles, is sixth in fumble recoveries with 16, seventh in
tackles-for-loss with 60, and fifth in sacks with 96.5. He also intercepted
five passes, scored two touchdowns, and recorded two safeties.<br />
<br />
<b>11) Matt Blair, LB:</b> Selected to six Pro Bowls in his 12 seasons, Blair
played in 160 games, starting 130. He is fourth in forced fumbles with 19,
third in fumble recoveries with 20, and tenth in tackles-for-loss with 44. His
23 sacks and 16 interceptions are first among Vikings linebackers. He also
blocked 20 kicks in his career.<br />
<br />
<b>10) Mick Tingelhoff, C:</b> A six time Pro Bowl selection, Tingelhoff
started every Viking game at center from 1962 through 1977, 240 consecutive
games in all. He anchored the Vikings offensive line and was elected to the
Hall of Fame in 2015.<br />
<br />
<b>9) John Randle, DT:</b> A standout defensive tackle who played in 176 games
and started 150, Randle was named to six Pro Bowls in his 11 seasons with the
Vikings. He recovered 9 fumbles, ranks third in forced fumbles with 25, and is
third in QB sacks with 114. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010.<br />
<br />
<b>8) Ron Yary, OT:</b> Selected to the Pro Bowl seven times in his 14 years
with the Vikings, Yary played in 199 games and started 180 at right offensive
tackle. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001.<br />
<br />
<b>7) Randall McDaniel, OG:</b> Selected to the Pro Bowl a record 12 times in
his 12 years with the Vikings, he played in 190 games, starting 188 at left
guard. McDaniel was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009.
<!--[endif]--><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">6) Paul Krause, S:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> The NFL's record holder for
interceptions with 81, Krause is the Vikings leader in that category with 53
picks, returning two of those for touchdowns. He also recovered 11 fumbles,
bringing back two for scores, and knocked down 54 passes. In 12 years with the
team he played in 172 games, starting 146, and was selected to six Pro Bowls.
Krause was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998.<br />
<br />
<b>5) Jim Marshall, DE:</b> Starting all 270 games in which he played as a
Viking at right defensive end, Marshall is second in team history with 127
sacks, first with 29 fumble recoveries, and fourth in tackle-for-loss with 74.
A two time Pro Bowl selection, he deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.<br />
<br />
<b>4) Carl Eller, DE:</b> The team's all-time leader in QB sacks with 130,
Eller was selected to six Pro Bowls. He ranks second in tackles-for-loss with
87, second in fumble recoveries with 23, and seventh in forced fumbles with 15.
He also blocked 15 kicks. Eller played in 209 games, fourth in team history,
and started 201. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004, an honor that
was long overdue.<br />
<br />
<b>3) Cris Carter, WR:</b> Selected to 8 consecutive Pro Bowls in his 12 years
with the team, Carter played in 188 games, starting 177. He holds most Viking
receiving records, including 1,004 receptions, 12,383 yards, and 110
touchdowns. He ranks fourth all-time in NFL history in receptions and touchdown
catches, and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2013.<br />
<br />
<b>2) Fran Tarkenton, QB:</b> The Vikings record holder in most passing categories,
Tarkenton played in 177 games, starting 170, and was selected to five Pro Bowls
in his 13 seasons with the team. Named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1975, he
is also among the leaders in league history for records among quarterbacks.
Tarkenton was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1986.<br />
<br />
<b>1) Alan Page, DT:</b> A defensive tackle who changed the game in the late
1960's and early 1970's, Page was named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1971.
Selected to the Pro Bowl nine times in his 12 years with the Vikings, he played
in 160 games and started 157. He is fourth in team history with 108.5 sacks,
fourth with 18 fumble recoveries, third with 77 tackles-for-loss, and second
with 28 forced fumbles. Page was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1988. He is
the greatest Minnesota Viking of all time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
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<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br />
<i>sources for statistics:</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.pro-football-reference.com/"><i><span style="color: #4860e9;">http://www.pro-football-reference.com/</span></i></a><br />
<a href="http://min.scout.com/"><i><span style="color: #4860e9;">http://min.scout.com/</span></i></a></span><o:p></o:p></div>
Christopher Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00150099064088870826noreply@blogger.com0