The third preseason game is now in the books. This is one where we get to see the starters usually play a series into the second half, and unfortunately, Tarvaris Jackson was on the sidelines all night. I say unfortunately, but at the same time, am pleased with the coaches decision to keep him out of this game. He should rest that knee until the Monday nighter in Green Bay when it really matters. After all, Tom Brady has yet to take a snap this preseason, and no, that does not mean I plug Jackson in the same tier as Brady. Now for a quick look at what I saw in the game Saturday night:
The Good
Defense
From the Bad in game one, to the good in week three. As stated already, week three has a bit more meaning, and the Vikings starting defense showed that well on Saturday. Apparently Childress was not talking out of his ass when he said they played a vanilla defense in week one and two. The front seven had Big Ben confused and flustered all night and held the running game in check as expected. What stood out even more is the way this team tackles. I don't think I saw one broken tackle from the starters and EJ Henderson looks like he might be in the talks of Best Linebacker in the NFL this year.
The Bad
Running Game
Ok, I know this team is trying to establish the passing game to help free up some real estate for MR. 28, but for the third preseason game, the running game was non-existent. This by no means is to take away from the Steelers defense, a defense that is known to stop the run. When you have the Minnesota moving company and backs like AD and Taylor in the backfield, you should still be able move the ball on the ground. It doesn't help that Bernard Berrian has been sidelined that past two games. He was brought in to help spread the field and pull the LB's and Safeties back, and so far, his little toe is bothering him. He's out with a toe injury!!?? I know turf toe is no joke, but come on, he's getting paid way to much to miss this much time. I'm also concerned with Rice, another WR that I thought was set to have an outstanding season. These injuries at wide out are, and should be a huge concern at this point.
The Ugly
Preseason Injuries
A lot of big names have been going down in preseason games around the NFL again. Some want to shorten the preseason, and add to the regular season. I have a problem with that. For years NFL teams have been preparing with the current structure, so why change? If the game is for real (taking two games from preseason and adding them to the regular season - 18 games), won't starting players be subjected to more injuries as they are on the field for several more quarters?
The Preseason is a necessary evil. Players and coaches need the time to prepare, evaluate, and train their bodies/minds for the rigors of an NFL season. I know the infirmary report looks bad, but what do you expect, it's a contact sport.
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