Weak 1

The Vikings let one slip away. Sure, the Packers outplayed them for the most part. Rodgers was the more consistent quarterback. The Packers made the plays that were there for them, and the Vikings did not. But in the end, 24-19 was not a closer score than the game really was.

Although the Packers' offensive numbers look pretty good, or at least efficient, take away three explosive plays, and they really were not effective. The Vikings held the run game in check and forced tough third down conversions. No, you cannot take those three plays back. But it points to the fact that the Vikings were in position through the game to take over, and let it slip away.

Adrian Peterson could have been used better. Chester Taylor definitely could have seen more carries. The Vikings are a team that is going to struggle on third downs. That's just the way it is for a team with a mediocre (at best) quarterback and wide receivers who don't always get open. But why pass your way into third in long? If there is one thing we can say for sure about this team, it is that Peterson is capable of scoring every time he touches the ball. So why waste a first down on a 4-yard pass to Garrett Mills? The odds of Peterson breaking out are much better if you run on the majority of first and second downs. If he is stuffed, you end up with a 3rd and 8. Is that so terrible? Instead of passing into a 3rd and 8, and running the risk of Jackson turning it over?

And if Peterson could catch a ball in the flat or as the last resort on a dump-off, how dangerous would he be? No more play-action roll-outs where Tapeh is the number one option. Let Rice and Berrian run free a little more, and let Peterson and Taylor get out in the flats.

Most important to note about this game, though, is the defense. There is no doubt that this team's success rides on the defensive line. Jared Allen was brought in to solidify this unit as the best in the league. The only way they can be better-than-average is if the d-line makes plays and forces mistakes. That is asking a lot, but it is reality. They played well. Not a lot of d-lines can play like that on an off-night. But they did not make an big plays, and they did not force Rodgers into any mistakes. 

Tyrell Johnson struggled at the safety position. He gave up the long one to Jennings, and was generally out of place. Overall, the defense is still a strong point for this team, and to give up only 17 points is not the end of the world. Cut out some penalties and they may have given up one or two less scores.

Losing in Week 1 is not the end of the world, even against a division rival. The Vikings still have three home division games, and still can take the reigns. It has to start this week against Indianapolis though.