The last time the Minnesota Vikings, who were 8-8 in 2007, got to the post-season was in 2004. That season their record was also 8-8. 
Offense
QB Tarvaris Jackson (294 ATT, 171 COMP, 1,911 YDS, 9 TDs, 12 INT) was inconsistent in 2007. This season, his third, Jackson must read defensive schemes better and make more lucid decisions. The Vikings ground game, which was led by rookie Adrian Peterson (238 ATT, 1,341 YDS, 5.6 AVG, 12 TDs) and vet Chester Taylor (157 ATT, 844 YDS, 5.4 AVG, 7 TDs), was tops in the league. It should be tops again. The Vikings now have a top pass catcher after signing former Bear Bernard Berrian. The O-line is sound.
Defense
Minnesota was impenetrable when it came to the rush, holding opponents to a league-best 74.1 yards per game. The Vikings got DE Jared Allen in a trade with the Chiefs. The D-line is excellent. Three first-rate starters are on the linebacking squad. E.J. Henderson (118 tackles) and Chad Greenway (105 tackles) led the club in tackles. The safety positions are questionable but the corners seem solid.
Special Teams
Inside the 50-yard line, placekicker Ryan Longwell is just about perfect. Longwell worked in the off-season to improve distance and power. In 2007, punter Chris Kluwe put in a breakthrough year. Free-agent RB Maurice Hicks has been brought in to upgrade the return unit, while the coverage groups are some of the best around.
Overview
Coach Brad Childress, who’s a cagey play caller, likes to try trick schemes and keep defenses guessing. There’s fine talent on the Vikings. This team could take the NFC North.