2008 Minnesota Vikings season

48th season in franchise history March 2012 March 2026 Minnesota Vikings 2008 Brad Childress Darrell Bevell Leslie Frazier Zygi Wilf Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome 10–6 1st NFC North Lost Wild Card Playoffs(vs. Eagles) 14–26 6 RB Adrian Peterson G Steve Hutchinson DE Jared Allen (bench) DT Kevin Williams DT Pat Williams (bench) CB Antoine Winfield 5 RB Adrian Peterson (1st team) G Steve Hutchinson (1st team) DE Jared Allen (1st team) DT Kevin Williams (1st team) CB Antoine Winfield (2nd team) File:Vikings 2006-2012 with throwback.png Vikings seasons The 2008 season was the Minnesota Vikings' 48th in the National Football League (NFL) and their third under head coach Brad Childress. They won their 17th NFC North division title with a 10–6 record, the first time since 2000 that they made the playoffs with a winning record; however, they finished behind the New York Giants and Carolina Panthers and had to play in the wild card round of the playoffs. They were paired with Childress's former team, the Philadelphia Eagles, who won 26–14. Second-year running back Adrian Peterson led the league in rushing with 1,760 yards. 3 Offseason Player and personnel moves Releases and injuries On February 11, it was announced that defensive end Kenechi Udeze had been diagnosed by doctors with a form of leukemia. KMSP-TV also reported that Udeze was at Fairview Southdale Hospital undergoing tests and that he had been at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester the week before.Reports: Vikings' Udeze has leukemia https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2008/02/12/Reports-Vikings-Udeze-has-leukemia/67271202838178/ UPI February 12, 2008 December 24, 2021 Udeze was expected to be out for the 2008 season, but returned for one game against the Green Bay Packers on November 9 before ultimately retiring from professional football on July 29, 2009. On February 20, the team released free safety Dwight Smith after two somewhat controversial seasons with the Vikings in which Smith had several run-ins with the law.Seeholzer Don Cutting Smith leaves Vikings thin at safety http://www.twincities.com/2008/02/20/cutting-smith-leaves-vikings-thin-at-safety/ Twin Cities Pioneer Press February 20, 2008 He was due to receive $2.5 million and a $500,000 roster bonus this season. On February 27, the team released backup quarterback Kelly Holcomb.http://sfo.scout.com/a.z?s=69&p=2&c=732639 Vikings Release Holcomb Scout March 25, 2016 February 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120210184541/http://sfo.scout.com/a.z?s=69&p=2&c=732639 dead On February 29, the team traded wide receiver Troy Williamson to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a sixth-round pick in the 2008 draft Troy Williamson traded to Jaguars https://www.reuters.com/article/us-nfl-jaguars-williamson-idUSN2922794220080229 Reuters February 29, 2008 and linebacker Dontarrious Thomas left the team to join the San Francisco 49ers.http://www.nfl.com/teams/sanfrancisco49ers/transactions?transactionWeek=03%252F02%252F2008&team=SF NFL Teams NFL March 25, 2016 On March 1, the Vikings' former defensive tackle Spencer Johnson joined the Buffalo Bills.http://www.nfl.com/teams/buffalobills/transactions?transactionWeek=03%252F02%252F2008&team=BUF NFL Teams NFL March 25, 2016 On March 3, free agent running back Mewelde Moore left the team to join the Pittsburgh Steelers.http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/breaking/s_555322.html https://archive.today/20120907211236/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/breaking/s_555322.html dead September 7, 2012 Steelers sign RB Mewelde Moore to a three-year contract. Brown Scott Pittsburgh Live March 25, 2016 On March 7, safety Tank Williams joined the New England Patriots and fullback Tony Richardson joined the New York Jets.http://gnb.scout.com/a.z?s=61&p=2&c=735139 Fullback Richardson Goes To Jets Scout March 25, 2016 Signings and extensions On February 29, the team signed safety Madieu Williams, formerly of the Cincinnati Bengals, and fullback Thomas Tapeh, formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles.Vikes Woo Berrian, Add Fullback, Safety http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gS4OgGWqjnvsZyCXugTUHL6B3XLwD8V45HR81 Associated Press January 2017 InternetArchiveBot yes On March 1, the team signed wide receiver Bernard Berrian, formerly of the Chicago Bears.http://www.vikings.com/NewsArticle_BerrianSigns_030108.aspx The Official Site of the Minnesota Vikings Vikings March 25, 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20080306014128/http://www.vikings.com/NewsArticle_BerrianSigns_030108.aspx March 6, 2008 dead mdy-all On March 4, running back and special teams specialist Maurice Hicks, formerly of the San Francisco 49ers, signed a three-year contract to join the team.https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/2008-03-04-1999809113_x.htm Vikings sign ex-49ers RB/KR Maurice Hicks to 3-year contract USA Today March 25, 2016 On March 14, the team signed linebacker and special-teams standout Derrick Pope, formerly of the Miami Dolphins.http://min.scout.com/2/737508.html Vikings Sign Pope, DE Visiting Scout March 25, 2016 On March 17, the Vikings signed former Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Ellis Wyms, and re-signed wide receiver Robert Ferguson; all to one-year contracts.Vikings agree to terms with Ferguson, Wyms and Sartz http://www.nfl.com/freeagency/story?id=09000d5d807445ab&template=without-video&confirm=true NFL dead https://web.archive.org/web/20080321181700/http://www.nfl.com/freeagency/story?id=09000d5d807445ab&template=without-video&confirm=true March 21, 2008 On March 20 and March 21, Houston Texans safety Michael Boulware and former Green Bay Packers career backup defensive tackle Kenderick Allen to one-year contracts.http://www.twincities.com/2008/03/20/minnesota-vikings-sign-safety-michael-boulware-dt-kenderick-allen/ Minnesota Vikings sign safety Michael Boulware, DT Kenderick Allen March 20, 2008 Pioneer Press March 25, 2016 On March 24, restricted free agent linebacker Heath Farwell was re-resigned to a one-year contract. Also, on the next day, the team signed former Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Benny Sapp to a one-year contract.Vikings ink LB Farwell, CB Sapp to one-year deals http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/25/sports/FBN-Vikings-Moves.php International Herald Tribune On April 8, former Vikings backup quarterback Gus Frerotte rejoined the team on a one-year contract.http://www.nfl.com/teams/minnesotavikings/transactions?team=MIN Minnesota Vikings Transactions at NFL.com NFL March 25, 2016 On April 23, Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Jared Allen signed a six-year contract with the Vikings in a trade that gave the Chiefs the Vikings' 2008 first-round draft pick and both third-round picks. The trade may also involve the swapping of 2008 sixth round draft picks with Kansas City.Vikings deal draft picks for Pro Bowler Jared Allen http://globegazette.com/sports/vikings-deal-draft-picks-for-pro-bowler-jared-allen/article_2c6cdff3-14c3-5af5-aad5-c2c74a1d3753.html Globe Gazette April 23, 2008 On July 22, the Vikings signed their fifth-round pick, defensive tackle Letroy Guion, and their seventh-round pick, wide receiver Jaymar Johnson. 2008 draft 2008 NFL draft 2008 Minnesota Vikings Draft Draft order Player name Position College Contract Notes Round Selection117Traded to the Kansas City ChiefsChiefs trade The Vikings traded their first-, third- and sixth-round selections (17th, 82nd and 182nd overall), and the third-round selection they acquired from the Broncos (73rd overall) to the Chiefs in exchange for DE Jared Allen and a sixth-round selection (187th overall).243Tyrell JohnsonSArkansas State4 yearsFrom Panthers, via EaglesEagles trade The Vikings traded their second- and fourth-round selections (47th and 117th overall) to the Eagles in exchange for second- and fifth-round selections (43rd and 152nd overall).47Traded to the Philadelphia EaglesEagles trade373Traded to the Kansas City ChiefsChiefs tradeFrom BroncosBroncos trade The Vikings traded their 2007 fourth-round selection (121st overall) to the Broncos in exchange for Denver's 2007 sixth- and seventh-round selections (176th and 233rd overall), and 2008 third-round selection (73rd overall).82Traded to the Kansas City ChiefsChiefs trade4117Traded to the Philadelphia EaglesEagles trade5137John David BootyQBUSC4 yearsFrom Rams, via PackersPackers trade The Vikings traded their fifth- and seventh-round selections (150th and 209th overall) to the Packers in exchange for a fifth-round selection (137th overall).150Traded to the Green Bay PackersPackers trade152Letroy GuionDTFlorida State4 yearsFrom EaglesEagles trade6182Traded to the Kansas City ChiefsChiefs trade187John SullivanCNotre Dame4 yearsFrom Buccaneers, via ChiefsChiefs trade193Jaymar JohnsonWRJackson State4 yearsFrom JaguarsJaguars trade The Vikings traded WR Troy Williamson to the Jaguars in exchange for a sixth-round selection (193rd overall).https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3265157 Vikings agree to deal WR Williamson to Jaguars ESPN February 26, 2008 March 25, 20167209Traded to the Green Bay PackersPackers tradeFrom RamsRams trade The Vikings traded OT Adam Goldberg to the Rams in exchange for a seventh-round selection (209th overall).226Traded to the New York JetsJets trade The Vikings traded their seventh-round selection (226th overall) and DT C. J. Mosley to the Jets in exchange for QB Brooks Bollinger. Notes: All selections were moved up one overall position as the New England Patriots forfeited their first-round pick (originally 31st overall) due to the "Spygate scandal". + Notable undrafted free agentsNamePositionCollegeHusain AbdullahSWashington StateStephen HauschkaKNC StateErin HendersonLBMarylandDarius ReynaudWRWest Virginia Training camp thumb|2008 Minnesota Vikings training camp in Mankato, Minnesota. On May 27, Erasmus James was traded to the Washington Redskins for a conditional 2009 NFL draft pick.http://www.twincities.com/2008/05/27/report-minnesota-vikings-trade-erasmus-james-to-washington-redskins/ Report: Minnesota Vikings trade Erasmus James to Washington Redskins – Twin Cities May 27, 2008 March 25, 2016 On June 27, the Vikings signed a one-day contract with seven-season member Robert Griffith so he could ceremonially retire as a member of the team.http://www.startribune.com/sports/vikings/21863229.html Griffith ends his NFL career as a Viking Star Tribune https://web.archive.org/web/20080628223833/http://www.startribune.com/sports/vikings/21863229.html June 28, 2008 On July 16, Jay Glazer reported that the Green Bay Packers had filed tampering charges against the Vikings for allegedly inappropriately contacting Green Bay quarterback Brett Favre.http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/8351554/Sources:-Packers-say-Vikings-tampered-with-Favre Sources: Packers say Vikings tampered with Favre Fox Sports https://web.archive.org/web/20080722101534/http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/8351554/Sources%3A-Packers-say-Vikings-tampered-with-Favre July 22, 2008 On August 4, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell ruled that contact between the Vikings and Brett Favre over the summer did not violate league tampering rules, as the Packers alleged, mostly because Favre was retired at the time.Krawczynski Jon Goodell says Vikings didn't tamper with Favre http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gl3rMTzOOByD5HAsnYUHaEdy1NdQD92BQ3780 Associated Press August 17, 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20080809141436/http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gl3rMTzOOByD5HAsnYUHaEdy1NdQD92BQ3780 August 9, 2008 Staff 2008 Minnesota Vikings Owner/chairman – Zygi Wilf Owner/president – Mark Wilf Owner/vice chairman – Leonard Wilf Vice president of football operations – Rob Brzezinski Vice president of player personnel – Rick Spielman Director of player personnel – George Paton Director of college scouting – Scott Studwell Assistant director of college scouting – Jamaal Stephenson Head coach – Brad Childress Assistant to the head coach – Kevin Stefanski Coaches administrative assistant – Todd Nielson Offensive coordinator – Darrell Bevell Quarterbacks – Kevin Rogers Running backs – Eric Bieniemy Assistant running backs – Ryan Ficken Wide receivers – George Stewart Assistant wide receivers/offensive assistant/assistant special teams – Chad O'Shea Tight ends – Jimmie Johnson Offensive line – Pat Morris Assistant offensive line – Jim Hueber Offensive assistant/defensive assistant – Ryan Silverfield Defensive coordinator – Leslie Frazier Defensive line – Karl Dunbar Assistant defensive line – Brendan Daly Linebackers – Fred Pagac Defensive backs/secondary – Joe Woods Assistant secondary – Derek Mason Defensive assistant – Jeff Imamura Special teams coordinator – Paul Ferraro Assistant special teams – Brian Murphy Head athletic trainer/director of sports medicine – Eric Sugarman Strength and conditioning – Tom Kanavy Assistant strength and conditioning – Juney Barnett Assistant strength and conditioning – Martin Streight Director of Video – Bob Marcus Assistant Director – Steve Hicks Roster 2008 Minnesota Vikings 53 8 8  4 John David Booty y 12 Gus Frerotte  7 Tarvaris Jackson 43 Maurice Hicks KR 45 Garrett Mills 28 Adrian Peterson 38 Naufahu Tahi FB 29 Chester Taylor KR 84 Aundrae Allison PR 87 Bernard Berrian PR 18 Sidney Rice 82 Darius Reynaud y 19 Bobby Wade 83 Jeff Dugan 40 Jim Kleinsasser 81 Visanthe Shiancoe 78 Matt Birk C 62 Ryan Cook American football T 64 Anthony Herrera American football G 79 Artis Hicks T 76 Steve Hutchinson American football G 72 Marcus Johnson offensive lineman T 74 Bryant McKinnie T 65 John Sullivan center C y 69 Jared Allen DE 91 Ray Edwards American football DE 90 Fred Evans defensive tackle DT 73 Otis Grigsby DE 98 Letroy Guion DT y 71 Jimmy Kennedy American football DT 96 Brian Robison DE 93 Kevin Williams defensive tackle DT 94 Pat Williams American football DT 97 Ellis Wyms DE/DT 54 Vinny Ciurciu MLB/OLB 52 Chad Greenway OLB 99 Napoleon Harris MLB 50 Erin Henderson OLB y 58 David Herron MLB 51 Ben Leber OLB 55 Dontarrious Thomas OLB 39 Husain Abdullah SS y 37 Eric Frampton FS 23 Cedric Griffin CB 25 Tyrell Johnson American football FS y 21 Marcus McCauley CB 22 Benny Sapp CB 42 Darren Sharper SS 20 Madieu Williams FS 26 Antoine Winfield Sr. CB  5 Chris Kluwe P 46 Cullen Loeffler LS  8 Ryan Longwell K -- Kenderick Allen DT IR 27 Michael Boulware S IR 59 Heath Farwell LB IR 41 Charles Gordon American football CB/KR IR 56 E. J. Henderson LB IR 92 Jayme Mitchell DE IR 60 Drew Radovich T IR y 95 Kenechi Udeze DE NF-Ill. 61 Martail Burnett y DE 75 Chris Clark American football y T 63 Brian Daniels American football G 11 Jaymar Johnson y WR -- Derrick Roberson CB -- Roderick Rogers CB/S 30 Marcus Walker American football y CB 34 Albert Young American football y RB Preseason Schedule Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue NFL.comrecap 1 August 8 Seattle Seahawks L 17–34 0–1 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap 2 August 16 at Baltimore Ravens W 23–15 1–1 M&T Bank Stadium Recap 3 August 23 Pittsburgh Steelers L 10–12 1–2 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap 4 August 28 at Dallas Cowboys L 10–16 1–3 Texas Stadium Recap Game summaries Week 1: vs. Seattle Seahawks Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Preseason Week 1: Seattle Seahawks at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary August 8 19:00 Seahawks 17 0 14 3 Vikings 7 10 0 0 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 62,545 None (indoor stadium) John Parry (132) Recap, Game Book First quarter SEA – Jordan Kent 18-yard pass from Matt Hasselbeck (Olindo Mare kick), 11:43. Seahawks 7–0. Drive: 7 plays, 76 yards, 3:17. SEA – Olindo Mare 21-yard field goal, 7:14. Seahawks 10–0. Drive: 6 plays, 40 yards, 3:20. MIN – Thomas Tapeh 6-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Steven Hauschka kick), 5:52. Seahawks 10–7. Drive: 5 plays, 49 yards, 1:22. SEA – Jeb Putzier 15-yard pass from Seneca Wallace (Olindo Mare kick), 1:35. Seahawks 17–7. Drive: 8 plays, 71 yards, 4:17. Second quarter MIN – Chester Taylor 1-yard run (Steven Hauschka kick), 12:31. Seahawks 17–14. Drive: 8 plays, 68 yards, 4:04. MIN – Steven Hauschka 35-yard field goal, 0:40. Tied 17–17. Drive: 10 plays, 42 yards, 4:15. Third quarter SEA – Trent Shelton 7-yard pass from Seneca Wallace (Olindo Mare kick), 11:44. Seahawks 24–17. Drive: 5 plays, 32 yards, 2:20. SEA – Joel Filani 1-yard pass from Seneca Wallace (Olindo Mare kick), 4:45. Seahawks 31–17. Drive: 5 plays, 31 yards, 2:31. Fourth quarter SEA – Olindo Mare 20-yard field goal, 12:17. Seahawks 34–17. Drive: 11 plays, 64 yards, 4:44. Top passers SEA – Seneca Wallace – 15/20, 165 yards MIN – Tarvaris Jackson – 8/11, 118 yards Top rushers SEA – Maurice Morris – 6 rushes, 62 yards MIN – Maurice Hicks – 7 rushes, 32 yards Top receivers SEA – Michael Bumpus – 3 receptions, 51 yards MIN – Albert Young – 5 receptions, 52 yards Week 2: at Baltimore Ravens Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Preseason Week 2: Minnesota Vikings at Baltimore Ravens – Game summary August 16 18:30 Vikings 7 13 3 0 Ravens 7 0 0 8 M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Maryland 70,585 Clear, 81 °F °C Jeff Triplette (42) Recap, Game Book First quarter MIN – Martin Nance 23-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Steven Hauschka kick), 10:24. Vikings 7–0. Drive: 11 plays, 70 yards, 4:36. BAL – Ray Rice 6-yard run (Matt Stover kick), 6:11. Tied 7–7. Drive: 7 plays, 73 yards, 4:13. Second quarter MIN – Steven Hauschka 21-yard field goal, 14:58. Vikings 10–7. Drive: 14 plays, 74 yards, 6:13. MIN – Robert Ferguson 5-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Steven Hauschka kick), 6:58. Vikings 17–7. Drive: 12 plays, 77 yards, 4:44. MIN – Steven Hauschka 34-yard field goal, 0:00. Vikings 20–7. Drive: 4 plays, −5 yards, 1:26. Third quarter MIN – Steven Hauschka 48-yard field goal, 1:21. Vikings 23–7. Drive: 13 plays, 34 yards, 5:22. Fourth quarter BAL – Derrick Martin 22-yard interception return (Cory Ross run), 12:11. Vikings 23–15. Top passers MIN – Tarvaris Jackson – 7/11, 82 yards BAL – Joe Flacco – 10/15, 74 yards Top rushers MIN – Albert Young – 12 rushes, 46 yards BAL – Ray Rice – 8 rushes, 77 yards Top receivers MIN – Martin Nance – 3 receptions, 74 yards BAL – Ernie Wheelwright – 5 receptions, 37 yards Week 3: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Preseason Week 3: Pittsburgh Steelers at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary August 23 19:00 Steelers 0 3 3 6 Vikings 0 7 3 0 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 62,625 None (indoor stadium) Carl Cheffers (51) Recap, Game Book First quarter No scoring plays. Second quarter MIN – Adrian Peterson 1-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 14:12. Vikings 7–0. Drive: 6 plays, 47 yards, 1:44. PIT – Jeff Reed 35-yard field goal, 6:40. Vikings 7–3. Drive: 9 plays, 18 yards, 4:06. Third quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 37-yard field goal, 10:06. Vikings 10–3. Drive: 11 plays, 60 yards, 4:54. PIT – Jeff Reed 43-yard field goal, 2:50. Vikings 10–6. Drive: 13 plays, 56 yards, 7:16. Fourth quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 37-yard field goal, 10:02. Vikings 10–9. Drive: 13 plays, 63 yards, 5:50. PIT – Jeff Reed 47-yard field goal, 0:04. Steelers 12–9. Drive: 11 plays, 45 yards, 2:08. Top passers PIT – Byron Leftwich – 16/23, 129 yards MIN – Gus Frerotte – 13/19, 133 yards Top rushers PIT – Rashard Mendenhall – 15 rushes, 79 yards MIN – Adrian Peterson – 12 rushes, 21 yards Top receivers PIT – Willie Reid – 5 receptions, 55 yards MIN – Aundrae Allison – 5 receptions, 56 yards Week 4: at Dallas Cowboys Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Preseason Week 4: Minnesota Vikings at Dallas Cowboys – Game summary August 28 19:00 Vikings 0 7 3 0 Cowboys 10 3 0 3 Texas Stadium, Irving, Texas 60,246 95 °F °C Pete Morelli (135) Recap, Game Book First quarter DAL – Nick Folk 23-yard field goal, 8:28. Cowboys 3–0. Drive: 12 plays, 73 yards, 6:32. DAL – Tashard Choice 11-yard run (Nick Folk kick), 6:59. Cowboys 10–0. Drive: 2 plays, 24 yards, 0:31. Second quarter MIN – Maurice Hicks 1-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 14:07. Cowboys 10–7. Drive: 8 plays, 60 yards, 3:11. DAL – Nick Folk 52-yard field goal, 0:00. Cowboys 13–7. Drive: 5 plays, 32 yards, 0:38. Third quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 25-yard field goal, 10:22. Cowboys 13–10. Drive: 11 plays, 67 yards, 4:38. Fourth quarter DAL – Nick Folk 52-yard field goal, 11:14. Cowboys 16–10. Drive: 15 plays, 59 yards, 7:33. Top passers MIN – John David Booty – 8/15, 93 yards DAL – Richard Bartel – 29/42, 233 yards Top rushers MIN – Albert Young – 14 rushes, 68 yards DAL – Sam Hurd – 1 rush, 35 yards Top receivers MIN – Martin Nance – 2 receptions, 31 yards DAL – Mike Jefferson – 3 receptions, 36 yards Regular season Schedule Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue NFL.comrecap 1 September 8 at Green Bay Packers L 19–24 0–1 Lambeau Field Recap 2 September 14 Indianapolis Colts L 15–18 0–2 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap 3 September 21 Carolina Panthers W 20–10 1–2 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap 4 September 28 at Tennessee Titans L 17–30 1–3 LP Field Recap 5 October 6 at New Orleans Saints W 30–27 2–3 Louisiana Superdome Recap 6 October 12 Detroit Lions W 12–10 3–3 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap 7 October 19 at Chicago Bears L 41–48 3–4 Soldier Field Recap 8 Bye 9 November 2 Houston Texans W 28–21 4–4 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap 10 November 9 Green Bay Packers W 28–27 5–4 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap 11 November 16 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers L 13–19 5–5 Raymond James Stadium Recap 12 November 23 at Jacksonville Jaguars W 30–12 6–5 Jacksonville Municipal Stadium Recap 13 November 30 Chicago Bears W 34–14 7–5 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap 14 December 7 at Detroit Lions W 20–16 8–5 Ford Field Recap 15 December 14 at Arizona Cardinals W 35–14 9–5 University of Phoenix Stadium Recap 16 December 21 Atlanta Falcons L 17–24 9–6 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap 17 December 28 New York Giants W 20–19 10–6 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap Game summaries Week 1: at Green Bay Packers Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 1: Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers – Game summary September 8 6:00 p.m Vikings 0 3 3 13 Packers 0 10 7 7 Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin 71,004 Mostly cloudy, 58 °F °C Jeff Triplette (42) ESPN Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Tony Kornheiser and Michele Tafoya Recap, Game Book First quarter No scoring plays. Second quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 37-yard field goal, 13:35. Vikings 3–0. Drive: 6 plays, 51 yards, 2:57. GB – Korey Hall 1-yard pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby kick), 10:07. Packers 7–3. Drive: 5 plays, 62 yards, 3:28. GB – Mason Crosby 42-yard field goal, 3:21. Packers 10–3. Drive: 8 plays, 63 yards, 4:15. Third quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 27-yard field goal, 10:52. Packers 10–6. Drive: 9 plays, 77 yards, 4:08. GB – Will Blackmon 76-yard punt return (Mason Crosby kick), 6:35. Packers 17–6. Fourth quarter MIN – Sidney Rice 23-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (pass failed), 14:12. Packers 17–12. Drive: 15 plays, 79 yards, 7:23. GB – Aaron Rodgers 1-yard run (Mason Crosby kick), 6:03. Packers 24–12. Drive: 4 plays, 77 yards, 2:31. MIN – Adrian Peterson 3-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 2:39. Packers 24–19. Drive: 11 plays, 80 yards, 3:24. Top passers MIN – Tarvaris Jackson – 16/35, 178 yards GB – Aaron Rodgers – 18/22, 178 yards Top rushers MIN – Adrian Peterson – 19 rushes, 103 yards GB – Ryan Grant – 12 rushes, 92 yards Top receivers MIN – Garrett Mills – 3 receptions, 49 yards GB – Greg Jennings – 5 receptions, 91 yards The Vikings began their 2008 campaign on the road against their NFC North foe, the Green Bay Packers, in the first game of 2008's Monday Night Football doubleheader. After a scoreless first quarter, the Vikings attacked first with kicker Ryan Longwell getting a 37-yard field goal. The Packers responded with quarterback Aaron Rodgers completing a 1-yard touchdown pass to fullback Korey Hall, along with kicker Mason Crosby getting a 42-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Vikes tried to catch up as Longwell got a 27-yard field goal, but Green Bay replied with cornerback Will Blackmon returning a punt 76 yards for a touchdown. In the fourth quarter, Minnesota tried to rally as quarterback Tarvaris Jackson completed a 23-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Sidney Rice (with a failed two-point conversion), yet the Packers responded with Rodgers getting a 1-yard touchdown run. The Vikes replied with a 3-yard touchdown run from running back Adrian Peterson, but their final rally ended in an interception. With the loss, not only did the Vikings begin their season at 0–1, but head coach Brad Childress fell to 0–5 against the Packers in his coaching career. In the first half, Minnesota was widely outgained in passing yards 139–6. Week 2: vs. Indianapolis Colts Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 2: Indianapolis Colts at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary September 14 1:00 p.m. Colts 0 0 7 11 Vikings 6 3 6 0 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 63,585 None (indoor stadium) Gene Steratore (114) CBS Greg Gumbel and Dan Dierdorf Recap, Game Book First quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 45-yard field goal, 10:10. Vikings 3–0. Drive: 6 plays, 31 yards, 2:14. MIN – Ryan Longwell 27-yard field goal, 0:09. Vikings 6–0. Drive: 8 plays, 43 yards, 3:56. Second quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 53-yard field goal, 0:00. Vikings 9–0. Drive: 3 plays, 45 yards, 0:21. Third quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 46-yard field goal, 10:38. Vikings 12–0. Drive: 8 plays, 34 yards, 4:22. MIN – Ryan Longwell 28-yard field goal, 4:09. Vikings 15–0. Drive: 8 plays, 36 yards, 3:31. IND – Joseph Addai 1-yard run (Adam Vinatieri kick), 1:24. Vikings 15–7. Drive: 6 plays, 80 yards, 2:45. Fourth quarter IND – Reggie Wayne 32-yard pass from Peyton Manning (Dominic Rhodes run), 5:54. Tied 15–15. Drive: 3 plays, 61 yards, 1:15. IND – Adam Vinatieri 47-yard field goal, 0:03. Colts 18–15. Drive: 5 plays, 21 yards, 1:04. Top passers IND – Peyton Manning – 26/42, 311 yards, TD, 2 INT MIN – Tarvaris Jackson – 14/24, 130 yards Top rushers IND – Joseph Addai – 15 rushes, 20 yards, TD MIN – Adrian Peterson – 29 rushes, 160 yards Top receivers IND – Anthony Gonzalez – 9 receptions, 137 yards MIN – Bobby Wade – 3 receptions, 42 yards Hoping to rebound from their divisional road loss to the Packers, the Vikings played their Week 2 home opener against the Indianapolis Colts. In the first half, kicker Ryan Longwell helped Minnesota take the early lead with a 45-yard and a 27-yard field goal in the first quarter, along with a 53-yard field goal in the second quarter. In the third quarter, the Vikes increased its lead with Longwell getting a 46-yard and a 28-yard field goal. However, the Colts responded with running back Joseph Addai getting a 1-yard touchdown run. In the fourth quarter, Indianapolis continued to gain ground as quarterback Peyton Manning completed a 32-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Reggie Wayne, followed by a two-point conversion run by running back Dominic Rhodes. The Colts sealed the win with a 47-yard field goal from kicker Adam Vinatieri with 3 seconds left in regulation. Week 3: vs. Carolina Panthers Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 3: Carolina Panthers at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary September 21 12:00 p.m. Panthers 3 7 0 0 Vikings 0 10 7 3 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 62,628 None (indoor stadium) John Parry Fox Ron Pitts, Tony Boselli and Charissa Thompson Recap, Game Book First quarter CAR – John Kasay 43-yard field goal, 12:53. Panthers 3–0. Drive: 5 plays, 37 yards, 2:07. Second quarter CAR – Jonathan Stewart 2-yard run (John Kasay kick), 9:55. Panthers 10–0. Drive: 11 plays, 84 yards, 5:48. MIN – Ryan Longwell 28-yard field goal, 1:46. Panthers 10–3. Drive: 15 plays, 69 yards, 8:09. MIN – Antoine Winfield 19-yard fumble return (Ryan Longwell kick), 1:04. Tied 10–10. Third quarter MIN – Visanthe Shiancoe 34-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 12:53. Vikings 17–10. Drive: 5 plays, 80 yards, 2:07. Fourth quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 32-yard field goal, 9:07. Vikings 20–10. Drive: 19 plays, 75 yards, 11:34. Top passers CAR – Jake Delhomme – 17/29, 191 yards MIN – Gus Frerotte – 16/28, 204 yards, TD, INT Top rushers CAR – DeAngelo Williams – 10 rushes, 27 yards MIN – Adrian Peterson – 17 rushes, 77 yards Top receivers CAR – Steve Smith Sr. – 4 receptions, 70 yards MIN – Bernard Berrian – 3 receptions, 79 yards Trying to avoid an 0–3 start, the Vikings stayed at home for a Week 3 duel with the Carolina Panthers. Due to poor performance, Jackson was benched at quarterback in favor of veteran Gus Frerotte. In the first quarter, Minnesota trailed early as Panthers kicker John Kasay got a 43-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Carolina increased its lead with running back Jonathan Stewart getting a 2-yard touchdown run. The Vikes responded with a 28-yard field goal by Longwell, followed by cornerback Antoine Winfield sacking Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme, who fumbled the ball, which Winfield returned 19 yards for a touchdown just before halftime, the key play in the Vikings' victory. Head coach Brad Childress said a day later that Winfield had a half-second left before it was ruled an incomplete pass. In the third quarter, the Vikings got the lead as Frerotte completed a 34-yard touchdown pass to tight end Visanthe Shiancoe. In the fourth quarter, Minnesota sealed its victory with Longwell nailing a 32-yard field goal. Week 4: at Tennessee Titans Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 4: Minnesota Vikings at Tennessee Titans – Game summary September 28 12:00 p.m. Vikings 0 10 0 7 Titans 10 10 3 7 LP Field, Nashville, Tennessee 69,143 Sunny, 78 °F °C Peter Morelli Fox Chris Myers, J. C. Pearson and Nischelle Turner Recap, Game Book First quarter TEN – Rob Bironas 20-yard field goal, 10:04. Titans 3–0. Drive: 11 plays, 74 yards, 4:56. TEN – Chris Johnson 1-yard run (Rob Bironas kick), 4:05. Titans 10–0. Drive: 9 plays, 33 yards, 4:38. Second quarter MIN – Adrian Peterson 28-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 14:53. Titans 10–7. Drive: 10 plays, 80 yards, 4:12. TEN – Rob Bironas 32-yard field goal, 10:19. Titans 13–7. Drive: 8 plays, 58 yards, 4:34. TEN – LenDale White 1-yard run (Rob Bironas kick), 3:42. Titans 20–7. Drive: 5 plays, 11 yards, 1:46. MIN – Ryan Longwell 42-yard field goal, 0:48. Titans 20–10. Drive: 11 plays, 43 yards, 2:54. Third quarter TEN – Rob Bironas 49-yard field goal, 6:54. Titans 23–10. Drive: 7 plays, 33 yards, 2:45. Fourth quarter MIN – Adrian Peterson 3-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 6:00. Titans 23–17. Drive: 11 plays, 79 yards, 4:13. TEN – Chris Johnson 6-yard run (Rob Bironas kick), 3:40. Titans 30–17. Drive: 1 play, 6 yards, 0:06. Top passers MIN – Gus Frerotte – 25/43, 266 yards, INT TEN – Kerry Collins – 18/35, 199 yards Top rushers MIN – Adrian Peterson – 18 rushes, 80 yards, 2 TD TEN – Chris Johnson – 17 rushes, 61 yards, 2 TD Top receivers MIN – Bernard Berrian – 5 receptions, 78 yards TEN – Justin Gage – 5 receptions, 92 yards Coming off their home win over the Panthers, the Vikings flew to LP Field for a Week 4 interconference duel with the Tennessee Titans. In the first quarter, Minnesota trailed early as Titans kicker Rob Bironas got a 20-yard field goal, while running back Chris Johnson got a 1-yard touchdown run. In the second quarter, the Vikes responded with a 28-yard touchdown run from Peterson. However, Tennessee responded with Bironas kicking a 32-yard field goal, along with running back LenDale White getting a 1-yard touchdown run. The Vikings closed out the half with Longwell getting a 42-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Titans increased their lead with Bironas nailing a 49-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Minnesota tried to rally as Peterson got a 3-yard touchdown run, but Tennessee pulled away with Johnson's 6-yard touchdown run. With the loss, the Vikings fell to 1–3. Week 5: at New Orleans Saints Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 5: Minnesota Vikings at New Orleans Saints – Game summary October 6 7:30 p.m. Vikings 10 10 0 10 Saints 10 0 7 10 Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana 70,015 None (indoor stadium) Ed Hochuli ESPN Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Tony Kornheiser, Michele Tafoya and Suzy Kolber Recap, Game Book First quarter NO – Devery Henderson 17-yard pass from Drew Brees (Martín Gramática kick), 11:09. Saints 7–0. Drive: 8 plays, 47 yards, 3:51. MIN – Antoine Winfield 59-yard return of blocked field goal (Ryan Longwell kick), 6:20. Tied 7–7. NO – Martín Gramática 35-yard field goal, 2:58. Saints 10–7. Drive: 8 plays, 34 yards, 3:22. MIN – Ryan Longwell 53-yard field goal, 0:53. Tied 10–10. Drive: 4 plays, 4 yards, 2:05. Second quarter MIN – Visanthe Shiancoe 4-yard pass from Chester Taylor (Ryan Longwell kick), 13:19. Vikings 17–10. Drive: 3 plays, 5 yards, 1:32. MIN – Ryan Longwell 33-yard field goal, 0:04. Vikings 20–10. Drive: 15 plays, 72 yards, 3:20. Third quarter NO – Reggie Bush 71-yard punt return (Martín Gramática kick), 1:46. Vikings 20–17. Fourth quarter NO – Martín Gramática 53-yard field goal, 13:20. Tied 20–20. Drive: 6 plays, 14 yards, 1:40. NO – Reggie Bush 64-yard punt return (Martín Gramática kick), 11:36. Saints 27–20. MIN – Bernard Berrian 33-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 7:10. Tied 27–27. Drive: 7 plays, 75 yards, 4:26. MIN – Ryan Longwell 30-yard field goal, 0:13. Vikings 30–27. Drive: 6 plays, 51 yards, 1:45. Top passers MIN – Gus Frerotte – 19/36, 222 yards, TD NO – Drew Brees – 26/46, 330 yards, TD, 2 INT Top rushers MIN – Adrian Peterson – 21 rushes, 32 yards NO – Reggie Bush – 12 rushes, 29 yards Top receivers MIN – Bernard Berrian – 6 receptions, 110 yards, TD NO – Devery Henderson – 4 receptions, 104 yards, TD Hoping to rebound from their road loss to the Titans, the Vikings flew to the Louisiana Superdome for a Week 5 Monday night duel with the New Orleans Saints. Frerotte made his first start on Monday Night Football since 1997, when he was with the Washington Redskins. In the first quarter, the Vikes trailed early as Saints quarterback Drew Brees completed a 17-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Devery Henderson. Minnesota responded with Winfield returning a blocked field goal 59 yards for a touchdown, the first such score in franchise history. New Orleans answered with kicker Martín Gramática getting a 35-yard field goal, yet the Vikings replied with Longwell getting a 53-yard field goal. In the second quarter, the Vikes took the lead on a trick play as running back Chester Taylor completed a 4-yard touchdown pass to Shiancoe, along with Longwell kicking a 33-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Saints began to rally as running back Reggie Bush returned a punt 71 yards for a touchdown. In the fourth quarter, New Orleans took the lead with Gramática's 53-yard field goal and Bush's 64-yard punt return for a touchdown. Afterwards, Minnesota answered with Frerotte completing a 33-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Bernard Berrian, along with Longwell nailing the game-winning 30-yard field goal. With the win, the Vikings improved to 2–3. Winfield had a big game. In addition to his touchdown off of a blocked field goal, he had 8 tackles and a sack (with a forced fumble recovery). This was also the first time in NFL history that a game had a combination of a blocked field goal, a touchdown pass by a non-quarterback, two field goals of 50+ yards, and two punts returned for touchdowns. Week 6: vs. Detroit Lions Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 6: Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary October 12 12:00 p.m. Lions 0 3 7 0 Vikings 2 0 7 3 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 62,867 None (indoor stadium) Tony Corrente Fox Ron Pitts, Tony Boselli and Laura Okmin Recap, Game Book First quarter MIN – Dan Orlovsky sacked out of bounds in the end zone by Jared Allen for a safety, 0:18. Vikings 2–0. Second quarter DET – Jason Hanson 40-yard field goal, 1:56. Lions 3–2. Drive: 6 plays, 48 yards, 3:02. Third quarter DET – Calvin Johnson 12-yard pass from Dan Orlovsky (Jason Hanson kick), 8:22. Lions 10–2. Drive: 10 plays, 69 yards, 6:38. MIN – Bernard Berrian 86-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 4:33. Lions 10–9. Drive: 1 play, 86 yards, 0:14. Fourth quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 26-yard field goal, 0:09. Vikings 12–10. Drive: 10 plays, 71 yards, 4:32. Top passers DET – Dan Orlovsky – 12/21, 150 yards, TD MIN – Gus Frerotte – 18/33, 296 yards, TD, INT Top rushers DET – Kevin Smith – 5 rushes, 62 yards MIN – Adrian Peterson – 25 rushes, 111 yards Top receivers DET – Calvin Johnson – 4 receptions, 85 yards, TD MIN – Bernard Berrian – 5 receptions, 131 yards, TD Coming off their Monday night road win over the Saints, the Vikings went home for a Week 6 NFC North duel with the Detroit Lions. In the first quarter, the Vikings got an early lead as Lions quarterback Dan Orlovsky unintentionally ran out of the back of his own end zone, giving Minnesota a safety. In the second quarter, Detroit got the lead as kicker Jason Hanson made a 40-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Lions increased their lead as Orlovsky completed a 12-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Calvin Johnson. The Vikings answered with an 86-yard touchdown pass from Frerotte to Berrian. In the end of the fourth quarter, the Vikings got in field goal range due to a controversial pass interference call on Leigh Bodden. The Vikings sealed the win with Longwell nailing the game-winning 26-yard field goal. With the win, the Vikings improved to 3–3. Week 7: at Chicago Bears Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 7: Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears – Game summary October 19 12:00 p.m. Vikings 14 10 7 10 Bears 14 13 14 7 Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois 62,235 Partly cloudy, 58 °F °C Carl Cheffers Fox Sam Rosen, Tim Ryan and Charissa Thompson Recap, Game Book First quarter MIN – Adrian Peterson 1-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 9:18. Vikings 7–0. Drive: 10 plays, 67 yards, 5:42. CHI – Greg Olsen 18-yard pass from Kyle Orton (Robbie Gould kick), 6:43. Tied 7–7. Drive: 5 plays, 54 yards, 2:35. CHI – Garrett Wolfe 17-yard return of blocked punt (Robbie Gould kick), 5:43. Bears 14–7. MIN – Visanthe Shiancoe 24-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 2:18. Tied 14–14. Drive: 6 plays, 70 yards, 3:25. Second quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 26-yard field goal, 13:33. Bears 17–14. Drive: 9 plays, 44 yards, 3:45. MIN – Ryan Longwell 42-yard field goal, 9:10. Tied 17–17. Drive: 8 plays, 42 yards, 4:23. CHI – Zack Bowman fumble recovery in the end zone (Robbie Gould kick), 4:58. Bears 24–17. MIN – Chester Taylor 1-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 0:22. Tied 24–24. Drive: 7 plays, 68 yards, 3:25. CHI – Robbie Gould 48-yard field goal, 0:00. Bears 27–24. Drive: 3 plays, 28 yards, 0:22. Third quarter CHI – Rashied Davis fumble recovery in the end zone (Robbie Gould kick), 12:12. Bears 34–24. MIN – Adrian Peterson 54-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 10:40. Bears 34–31. Drive: 4 plays, 64 yards, 1:32. CHI – Marty Booker 51-yard pass from Kyle Orton (Robbie Gould kick), 2:35. Bears 41–31. Drive: 4 plays, 63 yards, 1:31. Fourth quarter CHI – Matt Forte 1-yard run (Robbie Gould kick), 14:53. Bears 48–31. Drive: 4 plays, 6 yards, 0:57. MIN – Ryan Longwell 23-yard field goal, 8:59. Bears 48–34. Drive: 12 plays, 63 yards, 5:54. MIN – Bernard Berrian 5-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 3:00. Bears 48–41. Drive: 13 plays, 75 yards, 4:11. Top passers MIN – Gus Frerotte – 25/40, 298 yards, 2 TD, 4 INT CHI – Kyle Orton – 21/32, 283 yards, 2 TD Top rushers MIN – Adrian Peterson – 22 rushes, 121 yards, 2 TD CHI – Matt Forte – 20 rushes, 56 yards, TD Top receivers MIN – Bernard Berrian – 6 receptions, 81 yards, TD CHI – Marty Booker – 3 receptions, 79 yards, TD Coming off their divisional home win over the Lions, the Vikings flew to Soldier Field for a Week 7 NFC North duel with the Chicago Bears. In the first quarter, the Vikes drew first blood as Peterson got a 1-yard touchdown run. The Bears responded with quarterback Kyle Orton completing an 18-yard touchdown pass to tight end Greg Olsen, along with running back Garrett Wolfe returning a blocked punt 17 yards for a touchdown. Minnesota responded with a 24-yard touchdown pass from Frerotte to Shiancoe. In the second quarter, it was back and forth. Chicago kicker Robbie Gould kicked a 26-yard field goal, while Longwell got a 42-yard field goal for the Vikings. Bears cornerback Zack Bowman recovered a fumble in Minnesota's endzone for a touchdown, but the Vikings canceled it out on a 1-yard touchdown run by Taylor. Chicago closed out the half as Gould got a 48-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Bears got the lead again as wide receiver Rashied Davis recovered a fumble in Minnesota's endzone for a touchdown. The Vikes replied as Peterson got a 54-yard touchdown run. Chicago then struck again, as Orton completed a 51-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Marty Booker. In the fourth quarter, the Bears struck again as running back Matt Forte got a 1-yard touchdown run. Minnesota tried to rally as Longwell nailed a 23-yard field goal, along with Frerotte completing a 5-yard touchdown pass to Berrian. However, Chicago's defense stepped up and prevented the Vikes from tying the game, intercepting Frerotte one more time. With the loss, the Vikings went into their bye week at 3–4. The 89 combined points is the most in a single game in the history of both franchises. Week 9: vs. Houston Texans Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 9: Houston Texans at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary November 2 12:00 p.m. Texans 7 0 7 7 Vikings 7 14 0 7 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 62,839 None (indoor stadium) Walt Coleman CBS Dick Enberg and Randy Cross Recap, Game Book First quarter MIN – Adrian Peterson 1-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 12:48. Vikings 7–0. Drive: 4 plays, 66 yards, 2:12. HOU – Jacques Reeves 44-yard interception return (Kris Brown kick), 8:38. Tied 7–7. Second quarter MIN – Sidney Rice 8-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 14:07. Vikings 14–7. Drive: 13 plays, 47 yards, 5:59. MIN – Bernard Berrian 49-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 6:09. Vikings 21–7. Drive: 3 plays, 56 yards, 1:35. Third quarter HOU – David Anderson 3-yard pass from Sage Rosenfels (Kris Brown kick), 9:28. Vikings 21–14. Drive: 10 plays, 72 yards, 5:32. Fourth quarter MIN – Visanthe Shiancoe 25-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 6:26. Vikings 28–14. Drive: 7 plays, 84 yards, 3:25. HOU – Andre Johnson 14-yard pass from Sage Rosenfels (Kris Brown kick), 2:58. Vikings 28–21. Drive: 10 plays, 67 yards, 3:28. Top passers HOU – Sage Rosenfels – 21/29, 224 yards, 2 TD, INT MIN – Gus Frerotte – 11/18, 182 yards, 3 TD, INT Top rushers HOU – Steve Slaton – 16 rushes, 62 yards MIN – Adrian Peterson – 25 rushes, 139 yards, TD Top receivers HOU – Owen Daniels – 11 receptions, 133 yards MIN – Bernard Berrian – 2 receptions, 104 yards, TD Coming off their bye week, the Vikings played a Week 9 interconference duel at home against the Houston Texans. In the first quarter, the Vikes drew first blood as Peterson got a 1-yard touchdown run. The Texans responded with cornerback Jacques Reeves returning an interception 44 yards for a touchdown. In the second quarter, Minnesota responded with a pair of touchdown passes from Frerotte: first, an 8-yard pass to Rice and then a 49-yard pass to Berrian. In the third quarter, Houston started to rally as quarterback Sage Rosenfels completed a 3-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver David Anderson. In the fourth quarter, the Vikings answered with Frerotte completing a 25-yard touchdown pass to Shiancoe. The Texans tried to come back as Rosenfels completed a 14-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Andre Johnson. Fortunately, Minnesota's defense stiffened for the victory. With the win, the Vikings improved to 4–4. Week 10: vs. Green Bay Packers Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 10: Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary November 9 12:00 p.m. Packers 7 3 14 3 Vikings 7 7 7 7 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 63,845 None (indoor stadium) Alberto Riveron Fox Joe Buck, Troy Aikman and Pam Oliver Recap, Game Book First quarter MIN – Sidney Rice 3-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 9:01. Vikings 7–0. Drive: 9 plays, 39 yards, 4:06. GB – Ryan Grant 1-yard run (Mason Crosby kick), 4:01. Tied 7–7. Drive: 6 plays, 48 yards, 3:15. Second quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 54-yard field goal, 12:56. Vikings 10–7. Drive: 11 plays, 43 yards, 6:05. MIN – Penalty on Aaron Rodgers enforced in the end zone for a safety, 12:22. Vikings 12–7. MIN – Aaron Rodgers sacked in the end zone by Jared Allen for a safety, 0:44. Vikings 14–7. GB – Mason Crosby 47-yard field goal, 0:00. Vikings 14–10. Drive: 3 plays, 11 yards, 0:22. Third quarter MIN – Chester Taylor 47-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 10:31. Vikings 21–10. Drive: 8 plays, 77 yards, 4:29. GB – Nick Collins 59-yard interception return (Mason Crosby kick), 5:21. Vikings 21–17. GB – Will Blackmon 65-yard punt return (Mason Crosby kick), 3:09. Packers 24–21. Fourth quarter GB – Mason Crosby 40-yard field goal, 5:56. Packers 27–21. Drive: 5 plays, 19 yards, 3:02. MIN – Adrian Peterson 29-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 2:22. Vikings 28–27. Drive: 7 plays, 69 yards, 3:34. Top passers GB – Aaron Rodgers – 15/26, 142 yards MIN – Gus Frerotte – 15/28, 151 yards, 2 TD, 3 INT Top rushers GB – Ryan Grant – 16 rushes, 75 yards, TD MIN – Adrian Peterson – 30 rushes, 192 yards, TD Top receivers GB – Donald Driver – 5 receptions, 46 yards MIN – Chester Taylor – 4 receptions, 84 yards, TD Coming off their win over the Texans, the Vikings stayed at home for a Week 10 NFC North rematch with the Green Bay Packers. In the first quarter, the Vikes drew first blood as Frerotte completed a 3-yard touchdown pass to Rice. The Packers responded with running back Ryan Grant getting a 1-yard touchdown run. In the second quarter, Minnesota increased their lead with former Packer Ryan Longwell kicking a 54-yard field goal, along with the Vikings picking up back-to-back safeties: first Aaron Rodgers gave away an intentional grounding penalty in his own endzone, before Vikings defensive end Jared Allen sacked Rodgers in his own endzone for the second. Green Bay closed out the half with Crosby getting a 47-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Vikes increased their lead as Frerotte completed a 47-yard touchdown pass to Taylor. However, the Packers took the lead as safety Nick Collins returned an interception 59 yards for a touchdown, before Blackmon scored his second punt return touchdown of the season against the Vikings, returning one 65 yards. In the fourth quarter, the Packers increased their lead as Crosby nailed a 40-yard field goal. The Vikings regained the lead as Peterson got a 29-yard touchdown run. Green Bay did manage to get a late drive going, yet Crosby's 52-yard field goal attempt sailed wide right, preserving head coach Brad Childress's first win over the Packers. With the win, the Vikings improved to 5–4. Week 11: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 11: Minnesota Vikings at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Game summary November 16 12:00 p.m. Vikings 3 10 0 0 Buccaneers 3 3 7 6 Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida 65,278 Sunny, 62 °F °C Mike Carey Fox Sam Rosen, Tim Ryan and Chris Myers Recap, Game Book First quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 43-yard field goal, 6:53. Vikings 3–0. Drive: 8 plays, 36 yards, 4:44. TB – Matt Bryant 39-yard field goal, 2:48. Tied 3–3. Drive: 9 plays, 58 yards, 4:05. Second quarter MIN – Bobby Wade 4-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 13:33. Vikings 10–3. Drive: 8 plays, 76 yards, 4:15. TB – Matt Bryant 26-yard field goal, 7:48. Vikings 10–6. Drive: 10 plays, 64 yards, 5:45. MIN – Ryan Longwell 37-yard field goal, 1:47. Vikings 13–6. Drive: 12 plays, 51 yards, 6:01. Third quarter TB – B. J. Askew 1-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), 9:25. Tied 13–13. Drive: 11 plays, 80 yards, 5:35. Fourth quarter TB – Matt Bryant 29-yard field goal, 5:36. Buccaneers 16–13. Drive: 13 plays, 69 yards, 8:52. TB – Matt Bryant 26-yard field goal, 3:30. Buccaneers 19–13. Drive: 7 plays, 18 yards, 1:59. Top passers MIN – Gus Frerotte – 14/20, 138 yards, TD TB – Jeff Garcia – 23/30, 255 yards Top rushers MIN – Adrian Peterson – 19 rushes, 85 yards TB – Warrick Dunn – 20 rushes, 53 yards Top receivers MIN – Bernard Berrian – 3 receptions, 46 yards TB – Jerramy Stevens – 6 receptions, 84 yards Coming off their divisional home win over the Packers, the Vikings flew to Raymond James Stadium for a Week 11 duel with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In the first quarter, the Vikings struck first as Longwell got a 43-yard field goal. The Buccaneers responded with kicker Matt Bryant getting a 39-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Minnesota answered with Frerotte completing a 4-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Bobby Wade. Tampa Bay replied with Bryant making a 26-yard field goal. The Vikings closed out the half with Longwell getting a 26-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Buccaneers tied the game with FB B. J. Askew getting a 1-yard touchdown run. In the fourth quarter, Tampa Bay took the lead as Bryant nailed a 29-yard and a 26-yard field goal. Minnesota tried to rally, but the Buccaneers' defense was too much to overcome. With the loss, the Vikings fell to 5–5. Week 12: at Jacksonville Jaguars Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 12: Minnesota Vikings at Jacksonville Jaguars – Game summary November 23 12:00 p.m. Vikings 17 0 3 10 Jaguars 7 3 0 2 Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida 65,064 Cloudy, 66 °F °C John Parry Fox Chris Rose, John Lynch and Krista Voda Recap, Game Book First quarter MIN – Napoleon Harris 27-yard fumble return (Ryan Longwell kick), 14:47. Vikings 7–0. MIN – Chester Taylor 3-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 13:19. Vikings 14–0. Drive: 3 plays, 28 yards, 1:21. JAX – Reggie Williams 8-yard pass from David Garrard (Josh Scobee kick), 7:57. Vikings 14–7. Drive: 4 plays, 27 yards, 1:52. MIN – Ryan Longwell 54-yard field goal, 6:00. Vikings 17–7. Drive: 5 plays, 19 yards, 1:57. Second quarter JAX – Josh Scobee 21-yard field goal, 12:29. Vikings 17–10. Drive: 14 plays, 66 yards, 8:31. Third quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 32-yard field goal, 7:43. Vikings 20–10. Drive: 7 plays, 23 yards, 4:02. Fourth quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 22-yard field goal, 13:59. Vikings 23–10. Drive: 11 plays, 65 yards, 6:28. MIN – Adrian Peterson 16-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 6:55. Vikings 30–10. Drive: 10 plays, 60 yards, 4:58. JAX – Chris Kluwe ran out of bounds in the end zone for a safety, 3:01. Vikings 30–12. Top passers MIN – Gus Frerotte – 12/20, 120 yards, INT JAX – David Garrard – 27/45, 317 yards, TD, 2 INT Top rushers MIN – Adrian Peterson – 17 rushes, 80 yards, TD JAX – Fred Taylor – 6 rushes, 20 yards Top receivers MIN – Visanthe Shiancoe – 3 receptions, 60 yards JAX – Maurice Jones-Drew – 9 receptions, 113 yards Hoping to rebound from their road loss to the Buccaneers, the Vikings flew to Jacksonville Municipal Stadium for a Week 12 interconference duel with the Jacksonville Jaguars. In the first quarter, the Vikes got off to a fast start as linebacker Napoleon Harris returned a fumble 27 yards for a touchdown, while Taylor got a 3-yard touchdown run. The Jaguars responded with quarterback David Garrard completing an 8-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Reggie Williams. Minnesota answered with a 54-yard field goal from Longwell. In the second quarter, Jacksonville got the period's only points as kicker Josh Scobee made a 21-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Vikings replied with Longwell making a 32-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Minnesota pulled away as Longwell nailed a 22-yard field goal, while Peterson got a 16-yard touchdown run. Afterwards, the Jaguars were given a safety when Vikings punter Chris Kluwe ran out of the back of his endzone. With the win, Minnesota improved to 6–5. Week 13: vs. Chicago Bears Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 13: Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary November 30 7:15 p.m. Bears 7 0 7 0 Vikings 0 17 7 10 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 63,722 None (indoor stadium) Bill Leavy NBC Al Michaels, John Madden and Andrea Kremer Recap, Game Book First quarter CHI – Devin Hester 65-yard pass from Kyle Orton (Robbie Gould kick), 8:04. Bears 7–0. Drive: 2 plays, 68 yards, 0:49. Second quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 23-yard field goal, 12:45. Bears 7–3. Drive: 5 plays, 60 yards, 1:42. MIN – Bernard Berrian 99-yard pass from Gus Frerotte (Ryan Longwell kick), 4:48. Vikings 10–7. Drive: 1 play, 99 yards, 0:11. MIN – Gus Frerotte 1-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 0:48. Vikings 17–7. Drive: 8 plays, 86 yards, 1:48. Third quarter CHI – Matt Forte 2-yard pass from Kyle Orton (Robbie Gould kick), 8:53. Vikings 17–14. Drive: 2 plays, 4 yards, 0:42. MIN – Chester Taylor 21-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 4:27. Vikings 24–14. Drive: 5 plays, 35 yards, 2:36. Fourth quarter MIN – Adrian Peterson 1-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 8:25. Vikings 31–14. Drive: 6 plays, 22 yards, 3:33. MIN – Ryan Longwell 27-yard field goal, 4:18. Vikings 34–14. Drive: 7 plays, 11 yards, 3:46. Top passers CHI – Kyle Orton – 11/29, 153 yards, 2 TD, 3 INT MIN – Gus Frerotte – 16/25, 210 yards, TD, INT Top rushers CHI – Matt Forte – 22 rushes, 96 yards MIN – Adrian Peterson – 28 rushes, 131 yards, TD Top receivers CHI – Devin Hester – 3 receptions, 67 yards, TD MIN – Bernard Berrian – 4 receptions, 122 yards, TD Coming off their road win over the Jaguars, the Vikings went home, donned their throwback uniforms, and played a Week 13 NFC North rematch with the Chicago Bears, with first place in the division on the line. In the first quarter, Chicago struck first, with quarterback Kyle Orton completing a 65-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Devin Hester. The Vikings responded in the second quarter with Longwell getting a 23-yard field goal. Later in the quarter, the Vikings defense came up big with a goal-line stand. Defensive end Jared Allen made the key tackle just an inch short of the end zone on fourth-and-goal. On the very next play, Frerotte ran a play-action fake from his own endzone and found former Bear Bernard Berrian for a 99-yard touchdown pass. This tied an NFL record for the longest pass from scrimmage and it was the first-ever longest offensive touchdown play in franchise history. It was also the 11th time in NFL history that a 99-yard play was made. Then, with 1:09 left until halftime, Frerotte found tight end Jim Kleinsasser for a 21-yard gain to just inside the one-yard line. The play was originally ruled a touchdown, but was officially reviewed and it was determined that he was just short of the goal line. On the next play however, Frerotte got the touchdown on a 1-yard quarterback sneak with 44 seconds left until the half. In the third quarter, both teams traded blows. The Bears answered a 2-yard touchdown pass from Orton to running back Matt Forté, while Minnesota answered with a 21-yard touchdown run from Taylor. In the fourth quarter, the Vikes pulled away as Peterson got a 1-yard touchdown run, while Longwell nailed a 27-yard field goal. With the win, the Vikings improved to 7–5 and took first place in the NFC North for the first time since early in the 2007 season. Week 14: at Detroit Lions Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 14: Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions – Game summary December 7 1:00 p.m. Vikings 0 3 7 10 Lions 3 3 7 3 Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan 50,444 None (indoor stadium) Jerome Boger Fox Sam Rosen, Tim Ryan and Chris Myers Recap, Game Book First quarter DET – Jason Hanson 25-yard field goal, 1:01. Lions 3–0. Drive: 13 plays, 73 yards, 7:52. Second quarter DET – Jason Hanson 23-yard field goal, 11:39. Lions 6–0. Drive: 8 plays, 43 yards, 3:37. MIN – Ryan Longwell 35-yard field goal, 4:55. Lions 6–3. Drive: 12 plays, 65 yards, 6:44. Third quarter MIN – Chester Taylor 17-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 10:50. Vikings 10–6. Drive: 5 plays, 61 yards, 2:56. DET – Calvin Johnson 70-yard pass from Daunte Culpepper (Jason Hanson kick), 8:45. Lions 13–10. Drive: 3 plays, 80 yards, 2:05. Fourth quarter MIN – Visanthe Shiancoe 11-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Ryan Longwell kick), 11:22. Vikings 17–13. Drive: 11 plays, 90 yards, 5:35. DET – Jason Hanson 39-yard field goal, 5:44. Vikings 17–16. Drive: 10 plays, 48 yards, 5:38. MIN – Ryan Longwell 50-yard field goal, 0:22. Vikings 20–16. Drive: 10 plays, 54 yards, 5:22. Top passers MIN – Tarvaris Jackson – 8/10, 105 yards, TD DET – Daunte Culpepper – 14/24, 220 yards, TD Top rushers MIN – Adrian Peterson – 22 rushes, 105 yards DET – Kevin Smith – 21 rushes, 64 yards Top receivers MIN – Visanthe Shiancoe – 5 receptions, 65 yards, TD DET – Calvin Johnson – 3 receptions, 84 yards, TD Fresh off their divisional home win over the Bears on Sunday night, the Vikings flew to Ford Field for a Week 14 NFC North rematch with the winless Detroit Lions. Minnesota went behind late in the first quarter, as Lions kicker Jason Hanson made a 25-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Detroit increased its lead as Hanson made a 23-yard field goal. The Vikings closed the gap to three points with a 35-yard field goal from Longwell with just under 5 minutes left in the first half; however, a second interception of the game for Frerotte meant he was pulled at half-time in favor of Tarvaris Jackson. In the third quarter, Minnesota took the lead as Taylor got a 17-yard touchdown run. The Lions replied with quarterback Daunte Culpepper (a former Viking) completing a 70-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Johnson. In the fourth quarter, the Vikings regained the lead as Jackson completed an 11-yard touchdown pass to Shiancoe. Detroit tried to rally as Hanson made a 39-yard field goal, but Longwell helped Minnesota pull away with a 50-yard field goal, his fifth successful kick of the season from 50 yards or more. With the win, the Vikings improved to 8–5. Week 15: at Arizona Cardinals Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 15: Minnesota Vikings at Arizona Cardinals – Game summary December 14 3:05 p.m. Vikings 21 7 7 0 Cardinals 0 0 14 0 University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, Arizona 64,457 None (indoor stadium) Ron Winter Fox Joe Buck, Troy Aikman and Pam Oliver Recap, Game Book First quarter MIN – Bernard Berrian 82-yard punt return (Ryan Longwell kick), 11:05. Vikings 7–0. MIN – Bernard Berrian 41-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Ryan Longwell kick), 6:39. Vikings 14–0. Drive: 6 plays, 47 yards, 2:51. MIN – Sidney Rice 6-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Ryan Longwell kick), 2:43. Vikings 21–0. Drive: 6 plays, 23 yards, 3:14. Second quarter MIN – Chester Taylor 11-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Ryan Longwell kick), 2:08. Vikings 28–0. Drive: 12 plays, 91 yards, 7:06. Third quarter ARI – Jerheme Urban 50-yard pass from Kurt Warner (Neil Rackers kick), 13:43. Vikings 28–7. Drive: 3 plays, 73 yards, 1:17. ARI – Roderick Hood 68-yard return of blocked field goal (Neil Rackers kick), 4:27. Vikings 28–14. MIN – Bobby Wade 59-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Ryan Longwell kick), 0:17. Vikings 35–14. Drive: 7 plays, 80 yards, 4:10. Fourth quarter No scoring plays. Top passers MIN – Tarvaris Jackson – 11/17, 163 yards, 4 TD ARI – Kurt Warner – 29/45, 270 yards, TD, INT Top rushers MIN – Adrian Peterson – 28 rushes, 165 yards ARI – J. J. Arrington – 2 rushes, 23 yards Top receivers MIN – Bobby Wade – 2 receptions, 67 yards, TD ARI – Jerheme Urban – 3 receptions, 82 yards, TD Coming off their hotly contested road win over the Lions, the Vikings flew to the desert for a Week 15 duel with the newly crowned NFC West champion Arizona Cardinals. Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson returned to the starting line-up for the first time since the Vikings' Week 2 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Early in the first quarter, the Vikings got on the board first with a punt returned 82 yards by Berrian for a touchdown. Later in the first quarter, the Vikings increased their lead with Jackson completing a 41-yard touchdown pass to Berrian. The Vikings closed out the first quarter with Jackson completing a 6-yard touchdown pass to Rice. In the second quarter, the Vikings increased their lead with an 11-yard touchdown pass from Jackson to Taylor for the only score of the period. In the third quarter, Arizona tried to rally as quarterback Kurt Warner completed a 50-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Jerheme Urban. Later in the quarter, the Vikings tried to put the game away with a 34-yard field goal by kicker Ryan Longwell, only to have it blocked and Arizona returning it 62 yards for a touchdown by cornerback Roderick Hood. Finally, the Vikings put the game away for good with Jackson completing a 59-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Bobby Wade. Arizona tried to rally in the final minutes of the game, but on first-and-goal, they ran out of time. With the win, the Vikings improved to 9–5 and to a one-game lead over the Bears in the NFC North. If the Vikings won in week 16 against Atlanta or Chicago lost against Green Bay, the Vikings clinched their 17th division title, and their first since 2000. Week 16 vs. Atlanta Falcons Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 16: Atlanta Falcons at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary December 21 3:05 p.m. Falcons 7 10 7 0 Vikings 7 0 0 10 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 62,889 None (indoor stadium) Scott Green Fox Dick Stockton, Brian Baldinger, Brian Billick and Laura Okmin Recap, Game Book First quarter ATL – Michael Turner 1-yard run (Jason Elam kick), 8:47. Falcons 7–0. Drive: 12 plays, 74 yards, 6:13. MIN – Visanthe Shiancoe 21-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Ryan Longwell kick), 2:00. Tied 7–7. Drive: 12 plays, 90 yards, 6:47. Second quarter ATL – Jerious Norwood 8-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Jason Elam kick), 14:06. Falcons 14–7. Drive: 5 plays, 22 yards, 1:20. ATL – Jason Elam 22-yard field goal, 0:03. Falcons 17–7. Drive: 9 plays, 43 yards, 3:52. Third quarter ATL – Justin Blalock fumble recovery in the end zone (Jason Elam kick), 2:38. Falcons 24–7. Drive: 7 plays, 51 yards, 3:29. Fourth quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 29-yard field goal, 11:32. Falcons 24–10. Drive: 12 plays, 69 yards, 6:06. MIN – Visanthe Shiancoe 17-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Ryan Longwell kick), 2:44. Falcons 24–17. Drive: 12 plays, 82 yards, 3:14. Top passers ATL – Matt Ryan – 13/24, 134 yards, TD MIN – Tarvaris Jackson – 22/36, 233 yards, 2 TD Top rushers ATL – Michael Turner – 19 rushes, 70 yards, TD MIN – Tarvaris Jackson – 8 rushes, 82 yards Top receivers ATL – Michael Jenkins – 4 receptions, 61 yards MIN – Visanthe Shiancoe – 7 receptions, 136 yards, 2 TD Coming off their road rout of the Cardinals, the Vikings went home for a Week 16 battle with the Atlanta Falcons; a win gave the Vikings their first division title since 2000, and their first NFC North title. Minnesota trailed early in the first quarter as Falcons running back Michael Turner got a 1-yard touchdown run. The Vikings responded with a 21-yard touchdown pass from Jackson to Shiancoe. However, Atlanta answered in the second quarter with quarterback Matt Ryan completing an 8-yard touchdown pass to running back Jerious Norwood, followed by kicker Jason Elam's 22-yard field goal. The Falcons further increased their lead in the third quarter as offensive guard Justin Blalock recovered Ryan's fumble in the endzone for a touchdown. In the fourth quarter, Minnesota tried to rally as Longwell nailed a 29-yard field goal, followed by Jackson's 17-yard touchdown pass to Shiancoe. However, Atlanta's defense prevented any further comeback from happening. With the loss, the Vikings fell to 9–6. Week 17 vs. New York Giants Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 17: New York Giants at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary December 28 12:00 p.m. Giants 0 9 7 3 Vikings 0 10 0 10 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 63,761 None (indoor stadium) Terry McAulay Fox Dick Stockton, Brian Baldinger and Laura Okmin Recap, Game Book First quarter No scoring plays. Second quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 48-yard field goal, 14:52. Vikings 3–0. Drive: 8 plays, 37 yards, 3:38. MIN – Adrian Peterson 67-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 11:22. Vikings 10–0. Drive: 3 plays, 76 yards, 1:30. NYG – John Carney 51-yard field goal, 9:30. Vikings 10–3. Drive: 5 plays, 10 yards, 1:52. NYG – John Carney 30-yard field goal, 1:03. Vikings 10–6. Drive: 14 plays, 79 yards, 7:29. NYG – John Carney 42-yard field goal, 0:00. Vikings 10–9. Drive: 5 plays, 33 yards, 0:27. Third quarter NYG – Domenik Hixon 23-yard pass from David Carr (John Carney kick), 9:29. Giants 16–10. Drive: 10 plays, 80 yards, 5:31. Fourth quarter NYG – John Carney 20-yard field goal, 11:22. Giants 19–10. Drive: 8 plays, 38 yards, 4:27. MIN – Bernard Berrian 54-yard pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Ryan Longwell kick), 9:26. Giants 19–17. Drive: 3 plays, 66 yards, 1:56. MIN – Ryan Longwell 50-yard field goal, 0:00. Vikings 20–19. Drive: 9 plays, 30 yards, 3:17. Top passers NYG – Eli Manning – 11/19, 119 yards MIN – Tarvaris Jackson – 16/26, 239 yards, TD, INT Top rushers NYG – Derrick Ward – 15 rushes, 77 yards MIN – Adrian Peterson – 21 rushes, 103 yards, TD Top receivers NYG – Domenik Hixon – 4 receptions, 62 yards, TD MIN – Bobby Wade – 4 receptions, 98 yards Coming into their final game of the season against the New York Giants, the Vikings needed a win or a Chicago Bears loss to clinch the NFC North division title. The scoring began early in the second quarter when Longwell kicked a 48-yard field goal for the Vikings. They continued the scoring with a 67-yard run by Peterson, the second longest of his career to date. The Giants responded with a 51-yard John Carney field goal. The Giants continued the scoring with two John Carney field goals from 30 and 42 yards respectively to round out the end of the second quarter. In the third quarter, the Giants took the lead when David Carr threw a 23-yard pass to Domenik Hixon, then added a 20-yard John Carney field goal early in the fourth quarter, making for a Giants nine-point lead. The Vikings came back with a 54-yard pass from Jackson to Berrian and clinched the win when Ryan Longwell nailed a 50-yard, game-winning field goal as time expired. With the victory, the Vikings finished the regular season at 10–6, winning their first division title since 2000 and earning their first playoff berth since 2004. Standings Postseason Schedule Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue NFL.comrecap WC January 4 Philadelphia Eagles L 14–26 0–1 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap Game summaries NFC Wildcard Round: vs. Philadelphia Eagles Minnesota Vikings 2008 2;text-align:center; autocollapse NFC Wildcard Round: Philadelphia Eagles at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary January 4 15:30 Eagles 6 10 0 10 Vikings 0 14 0 0 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 61,746 None (indoor stadium) Tony Corrente (99) Fox Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Pam Oliver and Chris Myers Recap, Game Book First quarter PHI – David Akers 43-yard field goal, 6:44. Eagles 3–0. Drive: 4 plays, 1 yard, 1:38. PHI – David Akers 51-yard field goal, 0:00. Eagles 6–0. Drive: 6 plays, 42 yards, 2:36. Second quarter MIN – Adrian Peterson 40-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 11:05. Vikings 7–6. Drive: 8 plays, 78 yards, 3:55. PHI – David Akers 31-yard field goal, 7:29. Eagles 9–7. Drive: 9 plays, 59 yards, 3:36. PHI – Asante Samuel 44-yard interception return (David Akers kick), 6:34. Eagles 16–7. MIN – Adrian Peterson 3-yard run (Ryan Longwell kick), 1:51. Eagles 16–14. Drive: 9 plays, 64 yards, 4:43. Third quarter No scoring plays. Fourth quarter PHI – Brian Westbrook 71-yard pass from Donovan McNabb (David Akers kick), 6:37. Eagles 23–14. Drive: 1 play, 71 yards, 0:16. PHI – David Akers 45-yard field goal, 1:55. Eagles 26–14. Drive: 6 plays, 20 yards, 0:54. Top passers PHI – Donovan McNabb – 23/34, 300 yards, TD MIN – Tarvaris Jackson – 15/35, 164 yards Top rushers PHI – Brian Westbrook – 20 rushes, 38 yards MIN – Adrian Peterson – 20 rushes, 83 yards Top receivers PHI – Brian Westbrook – 3 receptions, 83 yards, TD MIN – Bernard Berrian – 2 receptions, 36 yards Entering the postseason as the NFC's third seed, the Vikings began their playoff run at home against the sixth-seed Philadelphia Eagles and for the first time in eight years, the Vikings hosted a playoff game. Minnesota trailed early as Eagles kicker David Akers got a 43-yard and a 51-yard field goal. The Vikings responded in the second quarter as Peterson got a 40-yard touchdown run. However, Philadelphia answered with Akers' 31-yard field goal, followed by cornerback Asante Samuel's 44-yard interception return for a touchdown. Minnesota ended the half with a 3-yard touchdown run from Peterson. After a scoreless third quarter, the Eagles increased their lead in the fourth quarter with quarterback Donovan McNabb's 71-yard touchdown pass to running back Brian Westbrook, followed by an Akers 45-yard field goal. Try as they might, the Vikings were unable to build any momentum to mount a rally. With the loss, the Vikings' season ended with an overall record of 10–7. Statistics Team leaders Category Player(s) Value Passing yards Gus Frerotte 2,157 Passing touchdowns Gus Frerotte 12 Rushing yards Adrian Peterson 1,760 Rushing touchdowns Adrian Peterson 10 Receiving yards Bernard Berrian 964 Receiving touchdowns Bernard BerrianVisanthe Shiancoe 7 Points Ryan Longwell 127 Kickoff return yards Maurice Hicks 690 Punt return yards Bernard Berrian 114 Tackles Chad Greenway 115 Sacks Jared Allen 14.5 Interceptions Ben LeberBenny SappMadieu WilliamsAntoine Winfield 2 Forced fumbles Antoine WinfieldCedric Griffin 4 League rankings Category Total yards Yards per game NFL rank(out of 32) Passing offense 2,956 184.8 25th Rushing offense 2,338 146.1 5th Total offense 5,294 330.9 17th Passing defense 3,449 215.6 18th Rushing defense 1,230 76.9 1st Total defense 4,679 292.4 6th References Category:Minnesota Vikings seasons Minnesota Category:NFC North championship seasons Minnesota