Monday Night Game Recap - Packers/Vikings

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In what had been termed as the most anticipated Monday night game of the season, the Minnesota Vikings defeated the Green Bay Packers, 30-23. As I watched, and listened, I had a few observations.

1. If you do own a fantasy team and Vikings WR Sidney Rice (right) is a relevant option. He had 5 receptions for 70 yards and a TD last night. What will make him potentially more relevant is that you can see the Favre is becoming more comfortable with Bernard Berrian and that bodes well for Rice.

2. I know RB Adrian Peterson had 25 carries, but only 55 yards? The Packers are now ranked 17th against the rush. It's his lowest yardage output this season plus AD coughed it up again. I know he was actually stripped of the ball, but even with all the things Peterson can do, the Vikings should be concerned.

3. Favre said it best...Jared Allen (left) is a beast. 4.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a safety. If he's not the NFC's defensive Player of the Week, don't give one.

4. Speaking of Allen, the Packers desparately need some help on the offensive line. Aaron Rodgers was sacked eight times. Being without tackle Chad Clifton didn't help Rodgers and his backside.

5. I'm still scratching my head over this one. With about 3:30 left in the game, the Vikings have a 3rd and 10 and are leading 30-20. The Vikes call a long pass play instead of running the ball (and the clock)? If you're going to pass, make it short (like a screen) and in the field of play to get the clock moving. The long pass was incomplete and this mistake (especially in play calling) gave the Packers new life. The Packers went downfield and got a field goal, making the score 30-23. All the Packers had to do was recover an onside kick. But that guy Sidney Rice was there and it was game over.

6. Lastly, at one point, I muted my TV because I was absolutely tired of hearing ESPN's Jon Gruden salivate over Favre. I know you wanted him in Tampa Bay last year, Jon, but as your friends in Bristol say, "C'mon, man!" Enough already...

So, we will have this matchup again on November 1 at Lambeau. The Packers are off with a bye this week, and then they host the Lions and go to Cleveland. The Vikings go to St. Louis, host the Ravens, and go to Pittsburgh. The "rematch" could have 1st place in the NFC North on the line...again.

I think Favre's reception at Lambeau will be just a little bit different than the one he received last night.