Vikings Change Philosophy

In a way, I have to hand it to the Minnesota Vikings. After years of doing things the wrong way, they seem to finally understand what it takes to win. Recently, the purple have been entertaining us with high-flying offensive attacks while throwing a defense onto the field that would struggle against a decent college squad. They have spent huge chunks of money on offensive playmakers while turning a blind eye to a defense that could never seem to improve, no matter how much they tried to tell us it would.

But now, things seem to be turning for the better. The Moss deal resulted in a solid linebacker--our weakest position last season by far. We also have a draft pick or two to use however we choose. But getting rid of Moss also opened some other doors related to the salary cap.

Under Red McCombs, the Vikings have never had to worry about the salary cap, but they have had some struggles in reaching the league minimum. Now that Moss and his salary are gone, Minnesota had no choice but to spend some money on free agents. Hence the acquisition of cornerback Fred Smoot.

Although saying the Vikings have "three very, very good corners," as Tice told the Associated Press, is a bit of an exaggeration, it's true that the Vikings have done well to recognize the need to pay real attention to its floundering defense.

Whether this perceived change in philosophy will pay off remains to be seen. But we have to feel good about the fact that they're changing something, and realizing the importance of a solid defense.