Vikings Trail Bears 14-10 at Half

We were looking for the Vikings to come out against the Bears today with the same energy they showed at the end of the Arizona game.  Initially, it looked like that energy was there on offense, allowing the Vikings to score a field goal the first time they had the ball – their first points of the year on their opening possession.  However, despite moving the ball well, the Vikings were not able to capitalize with points.  Red zone playcalling was again an issue – especially Brad Childress‘ decision to yank Adrian Peterson with Minnesota driving toward the end zone.  Thankfully, a busted Bears coverage allowed Brett Favre to heave one downfield to a wide-open Percy Harvin for a 53-yard touchdown, otherwise the half would’ve been very frustrating.

Speaking of frustration…the Vikings front-four, which looked so amazing against Arizona late in the game, has reverted back its previous form, allowing Jay Cutler far too much time to pick out open receivers.  A Bears offensive line that has been dreadful all season looks like a brick wall against the Vikings’ basic four-man rush.  And even when the Vikings try defensive wrinkles they get burned:  The Bears’ second TD of the half came when the Vikes called a zone blitz, but Ray Edwards fell down after dropping into coverage, allowing Devin Hester to catch a pass and run for the score.

So, the Vikings once again find themselves behind going into the second half.  Now they need to conjure the sense of urgency that carried them to victory against the Cardinals.  Unfortunately, they will have to do so without Bernard Berrian, who is out with a groin.  They’ll also have to carry on without starting center John Sullivan who has suffered his third calf injury of the year.

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