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The Minnesota Vikings undoubtedly took a blow today when reports came out that Brett Favre has informed the team he will retire. Many still feel there is a chance that he could come back because in the past he has had problems walking away from the game but I think this time its for good. He had surgery on an ankle in the off-season and it just hasn’t healed as he had hoped. Favre turned this offense into an elite group last season. Minnesota has been a great rushing team since drafting the former Sooner Adrian Peterson but with the addition of Favre last season the passing game flourished as well.

Only time will tell how the Vikings will do without Favre but Id bet they are still a contender. Its likely Tavaris Jackson will take over as the starting quarterback. The offense will likely take a step back in the passing game but Jackson adds another dimension to an explosive offense. He has very good speed for a QB which allows him to pickup first downs or keep plays alive with his legs. Jackson will also benefit from a player like Percy Harvin. Harvin is one of those exciting play makers that can take it the distance at any time and its likely Jackson will be able to just throw some easy screen passes and short dump passes out to him and let the former Gator do the rest. Maybe even a bigger factor is the emergence of Sidney Rice last season who became an elite WR. He has a big body and has the ability to go up and get it. He is a player that can bail out Jackson and go up and take the ball away from CB’s downfield.

Despite a new QB the majority of this team remains in contact from last season. Remember they will likely one play away from kicking a game winning field goal that would have sent them to the super bowl but Favre threw an interception. This team still has a good defense that will give the offense extra possessions. The biggest thing is they still have Adrian Peterson who is a workhorse.

Its fair to say the Vikings offense will take a hit and wont be as explosive. The games will likely be closer but with a good defense and a great running back, most games will be within there reach. Jackson just needs to keep turnovers to a minimum and the Vikings will be in any game this season.

rip_city is a Jabberhead and an SJ contributing author.

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