Training Camp 2015 by MSU Reporter

2 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

Minnesota Vikings: Off the field Fifty years of football have touched countless lives in Mankato area. RAE FRAME Editor in Chief Shakopee has Valleyfair and Minneapolis boasts the Target Center, but Mankato gets to celebrate the fact that it has been home to the Vikings’ Training Camp for fifty years running. This year, we’d like to take a look at the ways that these special visitors have made an impact on families, businesses, and all the dedicated Vikings fans that come out every summer to take in Training Camp in the heart of Kato. If you walk down Stadium this time of year, you will see people in purple queuing up to catch a glimpse of their heroes despite the heat or the rain. This year, it is our pleasure to celebrate the fact that Mankato has been hosting the Vikings since the big move from Bemidji in 1966. This year, the team arrived on Saturday, July 25 and began practices the very next day. Fans of all ages lined up across from Blakeslee Stadium, outside Myers Field House, and near the

Wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson takes a moment to sign autographs for fans.

Centennial Student Union in order to catch a glimpse or grab an autograph from their athletic idols. Parking has been problematic due to the construction in Mankato, but nobody seems to mind too much—it’s all about

the game. Training Camp also includes youth opportunities such as Gatorade Junior Training Camp, Punt, Pass & Kick, and the MVC Junior Cheer Clinic. On Saturday, August 1 there will be team

Photo by Trevor Cokley

introductions in Blakeslee Stadium. According to the Vikings’ official webpage, there will even be an opportunity for fans “to catch an autographed mini-football from a member of the 2015 Vikings!”

Even if you are not able to make it to any of the practices or events, people are very much looking forward to the Football and Fireworks event that will close out Fan Appreciation Day on Thursday, August 13 at 9:45 p.m. “The Minnesota Vikings truly value your continued support of the team and wish to take this opportunity to thank you for attending the 2015 Verizon Vikings Training Camp,” the webpage reads. “During the last day of practice at this year’s camp, look for several opportunities to win great prizes, register to win autographed Vikings merchandise, jump in line at the Northland Ford Dealer’s Autograph Zone (morning session only) to get autographs from the Tight Ends and Quarterbacks, and then come back in the afternoon for more fun activities for kids and prize giveaways.” More information and a complete schedule can be found at www.vikings.com. The Blue Earth County His-

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MANKATO “This year, it is our pleasure to celebrate the fact that Mankato has

been hosting the Vikings since the big move from Bemidji in 1966.” continued from 2 torical Society (BECHS), which is located at 424 Warren Street in downtown Mankato, has opened an entire exhibit dedicated to the fifty-year relationship that the city has shared with the football team. According to Executive Director Jessica Potter, the Vikings and Mankato share the second longest football training camp relationship—second only to the Green Bay Packers, which has hosted its training camp at St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wis. for 58 years. Over 300 people have already visited the Vikings display since its opening on July 17, with guests including Vikings Alum Dave Osborn (1965-1975) and John Swain (1981-1984). “[Osborn and Swain] came for our exhibit opening on July 17th and really enjoyed the exhibit and talking with fans. It was a great way to kick-off the exhibit,” said Potter. The display features over 100 items, graciously loaned to the Historical Society by football fans in our community, that are being showcased in cases that

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Earth County Historical Society The fiftieth anniversary Vikings Training Camp display is made possible by members of the Blue Earth County community.

were designed for the Vikings’ 50-year anniversary celebration in 2011. If the exhibit is popular, the cases may be used next year or become a “traveling exhibit program” for the Historical Society.

For Potter, every piece of memorabilia carries a special story and memories that are “what make this exhibit so unique.” The Historical Society is open Tuesday–Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-

4 p.m. Be sure to visit the History Center Museum Gallery exhibit to learn more about Mankato’s growth and history. For more information, visit www.BlueEarthCountyHistory.com. Businesses like Nicollet Bike

WELCOME TO

Shop and Jake’s Pizza are very involved with summer Training Camp and have cultivated lasting relationships with the team. Nicollet Bike Shop on Riverfront Drive is involved with Training Camp transportation every year, supplying and servicing the 125 bicycles purchased by the Vikings. The Trek 820s were purchased about five years ago and are delivered each year to the store for maintenance prior to Training Camp. Jake’s Pizza has been a major hangout for Vikings players and fans—so much so that it has made an appearance in two separate publications of Sports Illustrated, first in 1982 and more recently in 2013. Located on Stadium Road near campus, the restaurant proudly displays an impressive collection of autographed wood pizza trays high on the walls. Training Camp is a special time for families to share their passion for football, and we got the opportunity to speak with Kelli Kammer of Mankato about

MANKATO • Page 49

VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP

FROM THE OFFICIAL BEER OF THE

4 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

Zimmer back to lead Vikings in 2015

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

LUKE LONIEN Sports Editor After his first full season as a NFL head coach, Mike Zimmer is looking to improve his running defense and offensive line going into 2015. Zimmer had a pretty successful season in 2015 when you consider all that he went though. His week one quarterback went down with an injury in week three, bringing in an unpolished rookie

to take the reigns. He dealt with a boat-load of injuries on his offensive line, with Matt Kalil battling injuries the entire season, and Brandon Fusco went down early in 2014. Who could forget the Adrian Peterson saga, which Zimmer handled well. All in all it was a pretty successful season for the Vikings, whom went 7-9 and finished third in the NFC North division. Zimmer is back in 2015 to lead the Vikings in this season of high

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expectations. When Zimmer was named the head coach last season, he completely revamped the defense and started to pick and place his players. The Vikings had a defensive coach in Leslie Frazier so some pieces were in place, but Zimmer took matters into his own hands and evolved an old laughable defense into a potential top 5 shutdown defense. Zimmer took that step right away in the 2014 draft when the

Vikings selected Anthony Barr with the ninth overall pick. Zimmer took another step forward with the 11th overall pick in the 2015, taking Michigan States Trae Waynes, than in the second round the Vikings selected Eric Kendricks out of UCLA. With Xavier Rhodes, Everson Griffen, Sharrif Floyd and Harrison Smith already on the defense, these three pieces should really round out Zimmer’s impressive defense.

The Vikings were the 14th ranked total defensive team in 2014, which was a 15 spot jump from 2013. The passing defense was the biggest improvement. The Vikings were one of, if not, the worst defense in Vikings history. With Zimmer at the helm the Vikings turned out to be the 7th ranked passing defense team in the NFL, and that is with playing pass happy teams twice a

ZIMMER • Page 15

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 5

ZIMMER “When Zimmer was named the head coach last season, he completely revamped the defense and started to pick and place his players.” continued from 4 year, Packers, Bears and Lions. Zimmer was not as impressed with the rushing defense. “We definitely have to do a much better job in the running game. Sometimes, the stats get skewed a little bit both ways because in one game, you’re trying to take care of the pass and you may give up some more runs, or vice versa. We have to do a better job there,” Zimmer said. The Vikings ranked 25th in the NFL in rushing defense in 2014. Expect Zimmer to change that quickly. With young linebackers Anthony Barr, Eric Kendricks and Audie Cole ready to roll in 2015 the running defense should be better. Also, Chad Greenway is back on a restructured deal to mentor a young defense in 2015, but he will also compete for his spot as always. “It’s happened throughout all sports, all the time, every year. It’s a competitiveness that you have within your own group, just speaking of linebackers because I know it. It’s also you root for those guys though because you

see them put the work in, you see them go out in the offseason, you see they have the character, and the high character guys that they are so it’s a little bit of both,” Greenway said. Zimmer is now more comfortable in his second year as the head coach. He knows the area of Mankato much better and his players know what to expect. “I feel good about understanding the communication between Rick [Spielman] and myself, the expectations of the fans. There are so many things you don’t realize your first time going through, like how tough the job is in a lot of different ways. But I feel much more comfortable knowing the players better and knowing the set up better. It’s exciting. It’s just as exciting this year as it was last year, maybe more so,” Zimmer said. Zimmer had a successful season in 2014, but he is expecting more in 2015, so don’t be surprised if this team takes a huge leap forward in 2015.

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

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FIF T Y SUM M ER S

Receivers and Tight Ends bring talent to the table LUKE LONIEN Sports Editor

RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS Projected Depth Chart: Left Wing Recievers: 1) Mike Wallace #11 2) Jarius Wright #17 Playing for a spot: Isaac Fruechte #15 Donte Foster #2 Jordan Leslie #8 Right Wing Recievers: 1) Charles Johnson #12 2) Cordarrelle Patterson #84 3) Stefon Diggs #14 Playing for a spot: Adam Thielin #19 Gavin Lutman #9 Tight Ends: 1) Kyle Rudolph #82 Chase Ford #86 Brandon Bostick #81 Rhett Ellison #85 MyCole Pruitt #83

The Vikings have found themselves what looks like a franchise quarterback in Teddy Bridgewater, and his receiving cast is nothing to be ashamed of either. With the acquisition of Mike Wallace and the coming-out party for Charles Johnson the Vikings have found themselves having a very fast and talented group of wide receivers. Wallace is set to lead a young group of receivers that include Johnson, Cordarrelle Patterson, Jarius Wright Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs. Even though these guys are a young and unpolished, Wallace is set to take on the leadership role and help these young guys grow. Wallace has also worked with Bridgewater in South Florida this offseason. The two went through a workout together and are starting to build some chemistry. “We put in some quality work and Mike is a guy who is eager to be great and to see how motivated he is to be great, it just motivates me. He’s a guy who excels in his route running, catching the

RECEIVERS • Page 18

Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter The Wide receivers and Tight Ends are looking to have breakout years for the Vikings.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

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RECEIVERS “‘We put in some quality work and Mike is a guy who is eager to be great and to see how motivated he is to be great’ Bidgewater said,” continued from 6 football. I just can’t wait to get out there and compete in live action with him” Bridgewater said. In 2014 Wallace had 67 receptions for 862 yards to go along with 10 touchdowns for the Miami Dolphins, tying his career high. That is far from his high years of production. Wallace had 72 receptions for 1,193 yards and eight touchdowns in 2011 for the Pittsburg Steelers. Wallace has game breaking speed and is a great fit for the downfield passing attack that is Norv Turner’s offense. Wallace is not the only downfield threat apart of the Vikings wide receiver cast. Johnson, who had a coming out party of his own in 2014, is set to take a big step in the Vikings offense in 2015. The 26-year-old had 31 receptions for 475 yards and two touchdowns in 2014, while playing in only 12 games. Johnson has big play potential as he averaged 15.3 yards per reception last season. Johnson is a semi-proven down field threat and will go along great with Wallace’s ability to stretch the field. Patterson is another intriguing piece to the Vikings offense. Even after a down year in 2014, there is no denying that Patterson has plenty of potential. His potential was shown in his rookie season when he was a spark plug for the Vikings offense and Special Teams. Patterson, 24, took two kick returns back for a touchdown. Including an NFL record 109 yard return

Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter

against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday Night Football. Patterson was much less effective on kick returns in 2014, returning 34 kicks for 871 yards compared to his successful season in 2013. Patterson had 1,393 yards on 43 attempts. Patterson’s pass catching abilities have always been raw and his 2014 season showed that. Patterson was benched from the starting role in favor of Johnson in 2014. Patterson caught 33 passes on 67 targets for 383 yards and only one touchdown. The third year man will have to step up his game to get back into the lineup in 2015, and there

is no denying that Patterson has the potenial to be a star wide receiver in the NFL. Wright, Thielin and Diggs are all competing for a spot in the Vikings’ lineups. Another wide receiver competing for a roster spot include Minnesota’s own Isaac Fruechte. Fruechte is a Caledonia, MN native, and played for the University of Minnesota. Fruechte was not in a feature role for the Gophers power running attack, but was a solid possession receiver for when the Gophers did decide to throw the ball. Wright is a great complement to the downfield abilities of Wal-

lace and Johnson. Wright, who burned the New York Jets last season on a screen pass for a touchdown to win in overtime, is in his fourth season out of Arkansas. MSU’s Thielin caught eight passes for 137 and one touchdown in 2014, and was also an important piece in the special teams game. Thielin returned a block punt for a touchdown as well. Vikings Head Coach Mike Zimmer is also pleased with Thielin. “I think Adam does a lot of great things and he’s a guy that cares an awful lot. He’s a smart guy and I think he’s continued

to improve from, at least from the time I saw him, to where he is now. Its really a tribute to his hard work, his dedication and his determination,” Zimmer said. Zimmer is pleased with the talent level of the wide receiver group as well. “I feel good about the guys we have there. We have some talent. We have some young guys that look like they have the chance to contribute. Stefon Diggs has the chance to be a real NFL guy.” Zimmer said. As long as the receivers are keep up with expectations and are preforming, expect the Vikings to keep many of them on the roster. “We are going to try and keep as many as we can.” Zimmer said. Not to forget about a Minnesota main stay, Kyle Rudolph is also back in action after having his 2014 season cut short. Rudolph brought in 24 passes for 231 yards and two touchdowns in nine games. Rudolph will have to remain healthy and have a huge impact if the Vikings want to be successful in 2015. With a lot of talent on the outside, and a huge target at tight end, expect the Vikings to open the field a little bit more in 2015. Yes Adrian Peterson is going to get a lot of carries, but he downfield passing attack that is Norv Turner’s offense will get its chance to shine as well. With all of this speed, the 2015 wide receiver crew has a lot of potential to have a breakout season.

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8 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

Teddy set to take the reigns TOMMY WIITA Staff Writer

TEDDY BRIDGEWATER Born: November 10, 1992 College: Louisville Acquired: 2014 1st round (32nd Overall) 2014 Stats: (2,919 Passing Yards, 14 TD, 12 INT, 13 Games Played, 12 Started) Teddy Bridgewater: “We have high expectations around here that we’re not afraid of. the team finished 7-9 last year, and that wasn’t good enought and this year if we finish that way it definitely won’t be good enough.”

For so many years now, the biggest question heading into Minnesota Vikings Training Camp has been: Who will be the one taking snaps from under center? Last season with the 32nd overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, the Vikings chose to direct their faith in a young quarterback from the University of Louisville named Teddy. Teddy Bridgewater then went on to have a very solid rookie season, despite all of the troubles everywhere else on the field. “That position is such a difficult position to fill in the NFL,” Coach Mike Zimmer told the media during move-in day for the team to Training Camp in Mankato, Minnesota. “It’s nice going into camp knowing that this is our guy.” Bridgewater did not start right away in the 2014 season, as Matt Cassel was given the starting job out of camp. The Vikings wanted to ease Bridgewater into the NFL, but in week three Cassel suffered a season-ending injury which opened the door for Teddy to shine. He started 13 games, had a completion percentage of 64.4, 2,919 passing yards, 14 passing touchdowns and over

200 yards rushing. It was a learning year for Bridgewater, and it progressed well. In his second game, he threw for 317 yards on 19 of 30 passes to lift the Vikings over the Atlanta Falcons 41-28. Teddy showed some early rookie struggles in the year, as his first seven games he threw only four touchdowns. He finished the last six games with ten touchdowns, and was finding his groove with unproven wide receivers and an unexperienced backfield. “I’m excited to have Adrian [Peterson] back, Kyle Rudolph, Mike Wallace- all of us on the field at the same time,” Bridgewater said. Bridgewater will have a topnotch option to go to this year in the offense, in Mike Wallace. Wallace was traded from the Miami Dolphins to the Minnesota Vikings this offseason for a fifthround draft pick in this year’s draft. Bridgewater had high praises for Wallace. “To see how motivated he is to be great just motivates me. I can’t wait to get out there to compete in live action with him,” Bridgewater said.

BRIDGEWATER • Page 10

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 9

Kendricks is bringing the energy TEDDY ERIC BRIDGEWATER KENDRICKS Born: 10, 1992 Born: November Feburary 29, 1992 College: Louisville College: UCLA Drafted: 2014 1st Round Drafted: (32nd overall) 2015 2st Round (45th pick in round) 2013 Stats: 3,970 Yards, 31 TD, 4 INT, 71% Pass 2013 Stats: Completion, 171.1 QB 146 tackles, 101 of them Rating at Louisville solo, four sacks, three interceptions. Cordarrelle Patterson: “Teddy has been good. I have hadStrengths: the opportunity to coverage, goPass in with him a tackling, few times. plays with a high motor. He is looking good. He is a young guy and I feel like Questions: his going to be the star sizeone keep him ofWill thishis team of these from from shedding years.” blocks? “He Rick Spielman: Will his blitzing is going to haveimprove some enough to become growing pains asan weevery go down linebacker? through this, but he has been extremely impressive Anthony Barr: on his approach with not lot of only“A what he energy,” does on the field but what he also does off it with 2014 how hard he is Dick Butkus Awardto working and studying (Top DINorv collegiate understand Turner’s linebacker) system.”

COREY YUMAN Staff Writer If there is only one word that one could use to describe Eric Kendricks after these first few days of training camp, what would it be? Energy. “A lot of energy,” former UCLA, and now again current teammate Anthony Barr said. Kendricks is coming to Minnesota have a successful college career playing for UCLA. In the span of the few seasons he played he managed to win the Butkus award, and named to the second team all Pac-12 squad. Kendricks was also named the Alamo Bowl defensive MVP. Kendricks proved himself to be a top notch linebacker in UCLA as his time there saw him defend 16 passes, and added five interceptions. This should hopefully have primed him to be able to make a splash in the NFL quickly. During this years NFL draft, Kendricks was looked at by many as one of the top linebacker prospects in the entire draft. It wasn’t uncommon to look at mock draft boards and see someone having Kendricks going to a team in the first round. However, mock drafts are not real life. Anything can happen. Kendricks was not chosen in the first round, and slipped all the way to the 45th pick in the second round when the Minnesota Vikings swooped in. A major steal in many peoples eyes. The Vikings being able to snatch him up where they did

Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter

was a huge success for the franchise. Not only did they get a top tier talent in the second round, but he can also potentially be the perfect fill in for a spot the Vikes needed someone for. Kendricks joins the league as the second of his family to be playing for the NFL. Eric joins his brother Mychal Kendricks who is currently on the roster for the Philadelphia Eagles. “He gives me little tips here and there, about blitzing, rushing, and things like that but, for the most part he told me to be myself and just come out there

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mentally strong, mentally tough, and ready to practice every day,” Kendricks said. Kendricks is bringing to Minnesota a high rate of tackling, being the all time tackle leader for UCLA. He was a fantastic coverage linebacker in time spent there as well. Switching things up for him, Minnesota is looking to play Kendricks at the Middle Linebacker. “It’s a challenge, and I accept it,” Kendricks said speaking on how he feels about being thrust into the position.

“I just try to show them that I belong,” Kendricks said. Belonging doesn’t seem to be an issue thus far. Barr, and Chad Greenway have seemed to take them under their wing, and help guide Kendricks to where he needs to be. “I just try to bring energy,” Kendricks said when asked what sets him apart. Energy seems to be the perfect word, not only to describe Kendricks, but this young start Vikings defense in general.

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10 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

BRIDGEWATER “Bridgewater will have a top-notch option to go to this year in the offense, in Mike Wallace. Wallace was traded from the Miami Dolphins to the Minnesota Vikings this offseason for a fifth-round draft pick in this year’s draft.” continued from 8 Coach Zimmer was electrified to get Wallace, as he also went on to say to ESPN at the time. “We want to have a lot of speed offensively, and we feel like that will help a lot.” It will help Bridgewater too; Putting Charles Johnson and Wallace on the same field as tight end Kyle Rudolph and the former MVP in Peterson, the weapons on offense seem endless this year at Teddy’s fingertips. Not to mention Cordarrelle Patterson, as he will be returning for his third year to make a splash on the receiving end of the ball. Teddy was not shy when asked about leadership on this team. “I’m just one of those guys who let my actions and play speak for themselves, but I know I’m in a position for leadership. I’m not going to force it with great guys [like] Chad Greenway, Linval Joseph, Adrian Peterson [and] Mike Wallace. Those guys bring leadership to the team which makes it easier for the team.” Bridgewater said. With Bridgewater only 22 years-old, he has and is showing he is more mature than his young age would suggest. Bridgewater made it clear that the team will not settle for anything less than what they believe they can ac-

Bridgewater and Peterson look to be a force to be reckoned with in 2015. Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

complish. “We have high expectations around here that we’re not afraid of. The team finished 7-9 last year, and that wasn’t good enough and this year if we finish that way it definitely won’t be good enough.” Bridgewater said. Teddy was persistent about taking it “One day at a time” and “can’t look too far ahead.” Last season, Teddy Bridgewater finished with the sev-

enth-highest passer rating in the NFL and the third-highest completion percentage in NFL history, according to ESPN’s Ben Goessling. Getting Adrian Peterson back will only stretch out the passing game even more, and produce another good season for Bridgewater. He is ready to make the next step in his career, perhaps even becoming a pro-bowler in the near future.

“This team just has a group of men who love to work. Each day since I came here last year, I would see these guys just put their hard hats on and go to work,” Bridgewater said. “They would be totally focused on football from the time they entered that facility, to the time they left. It set a really good example for me as a young guy, and it has made me work that much harder for these guys.”

When Bridgewater arrived to the dormitories for check-in, there was a booming chant of “Teddy,” continuously. The only players to receive such chants was Teddy and of course the returning Peterson. The young quarterback has already made quite the fan base here in Minnesota, and only bigger and better things are expected to follow.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 11

Defensive Backs look to take another step forward in 2015 LUKE LONIEN Sports Editor

Defensive TEDDY BRIDGEWATER Backs Born: November 10, 1992 PROJECTED

DEPTH CHART:

College: Louisville Drafted: 2014 1st Round Left Cornerback: (32nd overall) 1) Xavier Rhodes #29 2) Terrance #30 2013 Stats:Newman 3,970 Yards, 3) TD, Marcus Sherels 31 4 INT, 71% #35 Pass Completion, 171.1 QB Playingatfor a spot: Rating Louisville Josh Thomas #33 DeMarcus Van Dyke #37 Cordarrelle Patterson: “Teddy has been good. I Strong Safety: have had the opportunity to 1) Robert Blanton go in with him a few #36 times. 2) is Andrew #34is He lookingSendejo good. He 3) Anthony Harris #41 a young guy and I feel like his going to be the star of thisFree teamSafety: one of these 1) Harrison Smith #22 years.” 2)Rick Antone Exum #32 Spielman:Jr.“He is going to have some Right Cornerback: growing pains as we go 1) Trae Waynes #26 through this, but he has 2) Captain Munnerlyn #24 been extremely impressive Prater #27not on3)hisShaun approach with 4) Jabari Price #25 only what he does on the field but what he also does for ahard spot:he is off Playing it with how Justin Coleman #38 to working and studying understand Norv Turner’s system.”

In years past, the Vikings seemed to be able to stop any run game around, but their pass defense would cost them the game. Now with Mike Zimmer at the helm the pass defense, and defense overall has became almost elite. In 2014 the Vikings ranked seventh in the NFL giving up 223.3 yards per game through the air. The problem was that the Vikings were also giving up 121.4 yards per game on the ground, 25th in the league. A young defensive unit has really came around, including the defensive backs. Harrison Smith leads a group of talented corners including Xavier Rhodes, Captain Munnerlyn and 2015 draftee Trae Waynes, the Vikings are looking to tighten up an already solid defense. Smith is already starting on setting high expectations for himself. “Every year I write down goals. I don’t hit them every time but I think it just gives you something to mentally shoot for and kind of keeps you progressing towards something.” Smith said. The 2012 first round pick had 93 combined tackles and a career high five interceptions, one that was taken back for a touchdown in 2014. Smith is also taking part as a leader on and off the field. “I think forming some chemistry with especially the young guys will help them with things that are more than on the field drills. Communicating well with

them and having some confidence. They can trust you and come to you and ask you questions,” Smith said. Waynes is one member that the Vikings will have to develop. The ball hawking corner back was the 11th pick in the 2015 draft and is looking to settle in on the opposite side of Xavier Rhodes, a former 1st round pick himself. Head coach Mike Zimmer just wants Waynes to come out and make plays to help the football team. “Make plays. That’s the easiest way to do it. Play with great technique. I think a lot of young guys they come in and there confident but they’re not sure they are confident. A lot of times, its important that they continue to develop that and not to lose their confidence,” Zimmer said. Xavier Rhodes was the man on the spot a lot in 2014, as it was his job to shut down some of the best wide receivers in the game. Rhodes typically found himself lined up against the other teams top receivers including the NFC North’s own Jordy Nelson, Calvin Johnson and Alshon Jeffery twice a year. Rhodes only had one interception; put he did break up 18 passes defended along with 49 combined tackles. Expect Rhodes to use his 6’1” 218 pound frame to lock down opponent’s top receivers in 2015. With Rhodes, Waynes and Munnerlyn looking to lock up the

DEFENSIVE BACKS • Page 18

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Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter Smith and Rhodes are looking to build off their sucessful 2014 seasons.

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FIF T Y SUM M ER S

2015 NFL fantasy football picks Luke Lonien gives you his top five overall and top five breakout selections LUKE LONIEN Sports Editor As Training Camp comes around it also brings us to one season many of us participate in, Fantasy Football. A tip to live by is that you cannot win your fantasy league in the first round, but you can lose it. Make sure you aren’t taking any big leaps in the first round and take one of those “for sure” running backs whom will dominate his team’s backfield. Granted, injures are always an issue when fantasy football come around so always keep in mind injury prone players. Top five picks in 2015 Fantasy Football draft: 1 ) Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings – Hear me out, Peterson was one of the most dynamic players in the NFL before his suspension, and with the year off Peterson has only got into better shape. In 2014 Peterson played in one game and rushed for 74 yards and zero touchdowns. But in 2013 Peterson rushed for 1,266 yards and 10 touchdowns, and who can forget the magical 2012 season when Peterson rushed

Charles Johnson makes a great breakout canidate. Johnson had 31 receptions for 475 yards and two touchdowns in 2014.

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MSU REPORTER • 13

FANTASY FOOTBALL “Peterson was one of the most dynamic players in the

NFL before his suspension, and with the year off Peterson has only got into better shape.”

continued from 12 for 2,097 yards and 12 touchdowns. Peterson as all the ability in the world and now that he has a down field passing attack that could help clear the box centered on Teddy Bridgewater and Mike Wallace. Peterson is going to get the ball and Peterson is going to score. Take him first if you have the opportunity. 2) Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs – Charles was 13th in the league with 1,033 yards rushing, but Charles only had 206 carries; that’s 5 yards a carry. Incredible. Charles also does damage in the passing game. He had 110 receptions and 12 touchdowns in the last two seasons for 984 yards. Charles will be in his second year of Andy Reid’s offense and be much more comfortable. Charles also has game changing speed and is a player you can center your fantasy team around. 3) Arian Foster, Houston Texans – The first two players listed may be a bit injury prone, and Foster is no different. Foster is one heck of a running back though. He was the fifth highest fantasy scoring running back in ESPN standard scoring leagues, piling up 223 points. Foster only played in 13 games, and got 10 or more carries in 11 games. If Foster can stay healthy, which is a big if; he could be the top scoring running back in 2015. He ran for 1,246 yards with eight touchdowns in 2014, while the Texans also use Foster as a check down receiver as he had 38 receptions for five touchdowns. Foster has all the potential in the world,

Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter Peterson is out number one overall player in 2015.

with injuries being the biggest concern. 4) Marshawn Lynch, Seattle Seahawks – I don’t care how old Beast Mode is, he is here to play football and he is going to play it well. Lynch keeps putting up impressive numbers. In 2014, Lynch was the third highest scoring running back in standard ESPN leagues, scoring 253 points. He rushed for 1,306 yards and league-high 13 touchdowns. Lynch isn’t as involved in the passing game as some fantasy owners would like, but with Russell Wilson’s ability to keep the play alive you have to think that Lynch would get some check down catches. He had four receiving touchdowns to go with 37 receptions in 2014. The Seahawks are looking to get back

into the Super Bowl in 2015 and they will ride the back of number 24. The only concern for Lynch is his usage numbers of past years. History tells us that his usage rate and performance cannot keep up, but we haven’t seen very many running backs like Lynch. 5) Eddie Lacy, Green Bay Packers – Honestly, he would be higher on this list if the Packers didn’t have the potential to throw the ball 40 times a game. The Packers have one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL and Lacy just makes them better. With Aaron Rodgers under center the box is fairly clear, and Lacy is not an easy back to bring down. Lacy rushed for 1,139 yards and nine touchdowns. He also got the benefit of great decision making of Rodgers catching

42 passes for four touchdowns. Lacy wasn’t much of a factor early in the season, but as the year went on Lacy became a proven running back. He scored in dou-

ble digits 11 of the final 12 weeks and over 15 points in 7 of the final 9 weeks. Lacy is just getting started and plays in a great offense, expect a lot out of number 25 in 2015. Top sleeper/breakout picks in 2015: 1) Melvin Gordon, San Diego Chargers - Gordon has been given a chance to take the reigns as a young running back and get right into the starting lineup. Gordon, the 15th pick in the 2015 draft, was a very decorated running back from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. In 2014 for the Badgers, Gordon ran for 2,587 yards and 29 touchdowns. Gordon had a huge workload; carrying the ball 343 times averaging 7.5 yards per carry. He is very good at finding the hole and exploding through it, he is very patient and has breakaway speed.

FANTASY FOOTBALL • Page 14

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FIF T Y SUM M ER S

FANTASY FOOTBALL “I don’t care how old Beast Mode is, he is here to play football and he is going to play it well.” continued from 13 Plus he has a proven Quarterback in Philip Rivers to help groom his game. Gordon is a guy I have very high on my draft board, with the possibility of being a top 10 running back at the end of the year. 2) Charles Johnson, Minnesota Vikings – Yes, Johnson had a coming out party of his own in 2014, and he has the abilities to jump into the starting lineup alongside newly acquired Mike Wallace. Bridgewater had a phenomenal rookie season and will only get better, and with Wallace drawing a lot of attention and Peterson in the backfield Johnson has a solid chance to put up some great numbers. In 2014, Johnson caught 31 balls for 475 yards, yes these numbers are not very good, but Johnson didn’t play a lot of snaps. With the up in snaps Johnson is a very solid WR2 player, and possible breakout candidate with his game breaking speed. 3) Joseph Randle, Dallas Cowboys – Randle is looking to take over the reigns in Dallas after the departure of DeMarco Murray. Murray was very successful behind what some say was the best offensive line in football. Now, Randle has the ability to take the

fanthem.com With a healthy Victor Cruz and Odell Beckham Jr, Manning has the potenial for a great fantasy season.

majority of reps in the backfield. The Cowboys have a decent offense with Tony Romo and newly extended Dez Bryant, which should give Randle some room to run. In 2014, Randle ran for 343 yards and three touchdowns. In 51 carries, that is 6.7 yards per

carry, which was higher than Peterson’s unprecedented six yards per carry in 2012. Randle has the chance to have a breakout season in 2015. 4) Eli Manning, New York Giants – Manning isn’t your prototypical breakout candidate, but

he could be a great sleeper pick. Manning has two Super Bowl rings and is also over 30 years old, but what Manning does have is a solid group of talent around him and an offensive coordinator that likes to throw the ball. Let’s not forget, Manning throws

the ball to Odell Beckham Jr. A lot. Manning threw the ball 601 times in 2014, seventh most in the league. He also threw for 4,410 yards and 30 touchdowns. That is with Beckham playing for half the year and without Victor Cruz for a majority of the season. With his top two receivers healthy and back on the field, Manning has the chance to be a top 5 fantasy QB in 2015. 5) Brandin Cooks, New Orleans Saints – Cooks had a successful rookie campaign in 2014 and is the fifth ranked breakout performer in 2015. Brees has been predicated by many to be a bust in 2015, but Cooks is young and fast and Brees can still sling it. In 2014, Cooks caught 53 passes for 550 yards while playing in 10 games. He has big play potential; averaging 10.4 yards per reception and that will only grow in his second season. Cooks is lining up to be a top receiver in an offense that likes to throw the ball down the field, and with the departure of Jimmy Graham, Cooks as an awesome chance to breakout in 2015.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 15

DEFENSIVE BACKS “‘Every year I write down goals. I don’t hit them every time but I think it just gives you something to mentally shoot for and kind of keeps you progressing towards something.’ Smith said” continued from 11 cornerback position and Smith locking down the free safety position, there is one safety position remaining, one that Smith doesn’t pay much attention too. “I wouldn’t say I am reading up about it but we communicate a lot together. We play a lot, there is a lot of chemistry. So when you’re out there with somebody, you have to be able to work well with him,” Smith said. Expect Andrew Sendejo and Robert Blanton to battle it out for the final safety spot Don’t sleep on the 37 yearold vet Terrance Newman either. Newman has had plenty of years in Zimmer’s defense, and could also be eyeing a spot in the corner back rotation in 2015. New-

man is here to not only pass on his knowledge but also make plays. “Try to pass on your knowledge. We have seen a lot of things as players playing in however many games we played. The instances you get in the game you cant get in practice,” Newman said. There is a lot of potential in the defense backfield, and the Vikings seem to keep loading up on talent. The defense is getting better every year and expect this group to take another step forward in 2015.

Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter

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16 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

He has been waiting “All Day” for this COREY YUMAN Staff Writer

ADRIAN PETERSON Born: March 21, 1985 College: Oklahoma Acquired: 2007 1st Round (7th Overall) Career Stats: 10,190 Rushing Yards, five YPA, 86 TD, 1,715 Receiving Yards, 5 TD. 2014 Stats: 21 carries, 75 rushing yards, 3.6 YPA Adrian Peterson on Teddy Bridgewater: “He is a heck of a quarterback, he’s smart, he has that drive and that want to be great.”

There are not many players coming into this years NFL training camp that have a bigger magnifying glass on them than Adrian Peterson. In a highly publicised, and often talked about year for Peterson, it’s safe to say he has run the proverbial gauntlet of opinion. This past year has led many to wonder how he would be responded to once he made his return to Minnesota. Those worries evaporated quickly as chants of “AP! AP! AP! AP!.” followed by a burst of “MVP! MVP! MVP! MVP!” quickly filled the outside of Julia A. Sears as fans embraced his arrival. Peterson walked straight to the long line of people anxiously hoping for an autograph, and made the day of many fans that waited in the hot sun to support their favorite team. “It felt good. It’s a good feeling just to know the support that I’ve been receiving through the entire process. It was a good feeling,” Peterson said. Good is exactly what football

ADRIAN PETERSON • Page 17

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 17

ADRIAN PETERSON “Those worries evaporated quickly as chants of “AP! AP! AP! AP!.” followed by a burst of “MVP! MVP! MVP! MVP!” quickly filled the outside of Julia A. Sears” continued from 16 fans in Minnesota have been hoping to hear for a long time concerning this situation. Coming into training camp Peterson revealed a new tattoo, something that could easily be looked at as a symbol of what’s he gained in the past year. The tattoo extends from the left of his chest to his arm, with the words “shield of faith” that’s written right over Peterson’s heart. In the picture that Peterson tweeted the verse in the Bible Ephesians 6:10-19 that encourages to “put on the full armor of God”. It’s hard to really pinpoint expectations for Peterson. After close to a year off, and having only played one game there is an argument to be made either way. The worst-case scenario is that with all this time off he lost some steps from then until now. It should almost go without saying, but the NFL is an incredibly hard sport. It can take a player many games into the season just to feel back into top form. This is also done from people that played the previous year, and have bodies still as adjusted as you can be to the grind. But there is the other side of the coin. He’s had something that none of the greatest runningbacks of all time have gotten. Extended time off, and not because of an injury. While Peterson no doubt went through an emotion-

al toll, you can tell he took care of himself. Seeing the shape he showed up into training camp you can tell he continued to take care of his body. “My body feels great. Mentally, I’m stronger than I’ve been ever before. I just have a different mindset when it comes to life in general and football, too. With that, I know it’s going to make me a better player,” Peterson said. Having Teddy Bridgewater out there in his second year is a huge benefit for Peterson as well. While Peterson was away, Bridgewater built a rookie-ofthe-year season for himself. All without the help of one of the top running backs in the league. A Bridgewater-Peterson one two punch could be one of the most dangerous teams to play, and one of the most fun to watch. “He is a heck of a quarterback, he’s smart, he has that drive and that want to be great,” Peterson said. The return of Peterson should also open up some room for receivers. With the loss of Peterson defenses could focus on shutting out some of the weapons coming off the sides. With the return of Peterson, a lot of attention will be placed on him. This could potentially open room for Cordarrelle Patterson to return to his rookie season form. Can a year off, a quarterback

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter Peterson arrived to training camp with roaring fans welcoming his return.

potentially on the rise, and a chip on his shoulder make the former MVP even better than he was before? Peterson will be coming in with a normal workload as Zimmer spoke on how much work he will receive. “He’s going to get a large majority of the reps. He’s like everybody else as far as that’s concerned,” Zimmer said. Worrying about Peterson’s

motivation is also far off on Zimmer’s mind. “I’ll probably have to hold him back more so than push him,” Zimmer said. Peterson’s presence on any field is an immediate difference maker. His play will likely be closely dissected, and criticized if there are any slight slips. He’ll be looked at as the Superman that most already think he is if he comes back and has an outstand-

ing season. No matter what side you’re on, you’ll be watching. If there is one thing Peterson has showed NFL fans in his career, it’s that if there is one person that can overcome all this, it’s Adrian Peterson.

18 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

Adam Thielen: Ready to roll TOMMY WIITA Staff Writer

ADAM THIELEN Born: August 22, 1990 College: Minnesota State University, Mankato Acquired: 2013 Undrafted Free Agent 2014 Stats: Eight receptions, 137 yards, one touchdown. Mike Zimmer: “I think Adam does a lot of great things and he’s a guy that cares an awful lot. It’s important to him. He’s a smart guy and I think he’s continued to improve from, at least from the time I saw him, to where he is now. It’s really a tribute to his hard work, his dedication and his determination.”

When asked if he was starting to get tired of coming back year after year to the dormitories in Mankato, wide receiver Adam Thielen responded with a laugh: “”Yeah, a little bit. But it’s nice to be back here though; this city [and school] has done a lot for me.” This will be the former Minnesota State University football star’s third season with the Minnesota Vikings, and last season he made his mark on impacting the team when he was on the field. Thielen is hoping this season can have even more improvements and opportunities, as Thielen will be trying to crack more time catching footballs from quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. Thielen caught eight passes last season for 137 yards, including one touchdown that went for 44 yards from Bridgewater. He also was named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week after he blocked a punt against the Carolina Panthers on November 30th, and he then returned it 30 yards for a touchdown. Thielen is very versatile, and is willing to do whatever it takes to make an impact on this Vikings team.

“My goal from day one is to be a wide receiver in the NFL, and it’s not my decision to see who plays but I’m going to do my best to show that I can play at a high level and whatever they want me to do, I’m going to do it and try to help this team win football games,” Thielen said in a humbled manner. The Detroit Lakes native is second all-time in receptions (198), third in pass reception yards (2,802), third in receiving touchdowns (20), third in punt return yards (582), third in punt returns (57), sixth in all-purpose yards (3,503), and eighth in receptions per game (4.3) during his tenure at Minnesota State University. Thielen most certainly has a shot to compete for more playing time this season, as the other wide receivers consist of Mike Wallace, Charles Johnson, Jarius Wright, Cordarrelle Patterson and others. He also had high praises for newcomer Mike Wallace. “He’s a hard worker. He is the guy who is after practice, making all the receivers stay after to catch balls off the juggs machine. He’s made our receiv-

THIELEN • Page 18

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter Adam Thielen is back looking to earn a spot in the Vikings rotation.

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MSU REPORTER • 19

ADAM THIELEN ““‘My goal from day one is to be a wide receiver in the NFL, and it’s not my decision to see who plays but I’m going to do my best to show that I can play at a high level and whatever they want me to do, I’m going to do it and try to help this team win football games,’ Thielen said.” continued from 18 also had some things to say about the wide receiver. “I think he’s continuing to improve from the time I saw him to where I see him now. I think it really attributes to how hard he works and his dedication and motivation to be better,” Zimmer said. Fellow receiver Jarius Wright had terrific praises for Thielen from day one, saying that he was going to be a great NFL player from day one. “I don’t think he believed me then, but it’s definitely showing now,” Wright said after practice this week. “He’s a great guy on and off the field.” Thielen will continue to grow, and get better with more experience as time goes on. Right now, he is practicing on the second team offense, but he may only be one move away from playing

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

er core a lot better, just based on how he works, practices, and goes about his business.” Wallace said. For Thielen, this season consists of big-time goals for the team and himself. Thielen will have to thoroughly impress as camp and the preseason goes on to gain more minutes out on the field on game days. Thielen had plenty of experience playing special teams for most of last year,

but then had the chance to start the last few games at the wide receiver position. “Getting experience [from last season] will go a long way, and I’m going to try and build off that this preseason,” Thielen said. Thielen was also asked about successful Division II players in the NFL, like the game winning interception last season by the New England Patriots defensive back, Malcolm Butler.

“It’s awesome to see guys from smaller schools that can play at this level. I think there are a lot of guys that can play, it’s just hard to find guys.” Thielen said. Special teams coach Mike Priefer had high praises for the young Thielen, saying he was one of the top performers on the special teams squad last season. “He’s only getting better,” Priefer said. Head Coach Mike Zimmer

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with the first teamers. Special teams should be a lock yet again, as he may start returning more punts and kickoffs this season as well. The former Minnesota State standout is someone that many casual football fans would overlook, but he will make a bigger impact each season if he keeps the right attitude. In an already hardworking state of mind, it will only help to have hard workers around him like receiver Wallace, quarterback Bridgewater and running back Adrian Peterson. This preseason should be a competitive one, as there is a lot of competition at the wide receiver positon. Thielen should be involved heavily, as he could open the door to more and more opportunities.

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20 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

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Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter

Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter Vikings fans stood up and down the field to get autographs from their favorite players.

Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter Teddy Bridgewater took plenty of time during Training Camp to sign autographs for fans.

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Jury still out on outdoor renovations Minnesota State University, Mankato looks to upgrade outdoor facilities. recruitment and would generate revenue during athletic events. Students, community members, and maybe even a few members of the Vikings are following MNSU through the process of planning its outdoor renovations even though no decisions have been made as of yet. The official proposal, which was issued in 2014, outlined many different ideas and plans of action, but the school will need to prioritize their needs before moving forward: “Ultimately, MSU will need to evaluate which project(s) are the top priority and move in that direction.”

RAE FRAME Editor in Chief Minnesota has been updating its sports facilities as of late, with the new U.S. Bank Stadium currently under construction in Minneapolis following the demolition of the Hubert H Humphrey Metrodome in January of 2014 and Mankato is following suit. Minnesota State University, Mankato has been considering renovations for its well-loved outdoor facilities. There are currently many options and ideas being discussed casually and in a formal report issued last year that included a $31 million plan to completely overhaul MNSU’s athletic facilities and other, smaller plans to update existing facilities. Along with the Maverick

Reporter Archive Mankato’s new indoor facilities have drawn praise from the athletic community.

football team and the Minnesota Vikings, many athletic departments, such as the soccer and baseball teams, would benefit from indoor practice facilities and expanded fields. The main push behind these proposals is to increase the quality of Mankato’s outdoor athletic venues to match the level of the indoor facilities such as the Taylor Center arena and the Verizon Wireless Center. MNSU has ranked highly on its indoor facilities nationwide, and the collegiate curb appeal of new outdoor stadium would certainly be appealing to new students during

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FIF T Y SUM M ER S

Special Teams looks to improve in 2015 COREY YUMAN Staff Writer

SPECIAL TEAMS Depth Chart: Kicker: Blair Walsh # 3 (2014 Stats: 26 FGM, 35 FGA, 55 Long, 107 PTS) Punter: Jeff Locke #18 (75 Punts, 44.2 Average, 62 long, 21 In 20) Long Snapper: Cullen Loeffler #46 (12 Years Experience) Projected Kickoff Returner Cordarrelle Patterson#84 (34 Attempts, 871 Yards, 51 Long) Projected Punt Returner Marcus Sherels #35 (27 Attempts, 297 Yards, 35 Long)

There is an age-old aldage that goes “if it ain't broke, don’t fix it”. That seems to be exactly the approach the Minnesota Vikings are taking when it comes to their core special teams unit. Returning to the kicker spot is Blair Walsh. In what has got to be a nice morale boost at the start of the season, the Vikings announced that Walsh signed a contract extension on July 26th. “I’m just excited about signing an extension with the Vikings, and staying here for another five years total,” Walsh said. This should come as no surprise as Walsh has been consistent since his debut, and is tied for the league lead at 17 for field goals over 50 yards. “I'm extremely excited to be a part of the Minnesota Vikings moving forward. I'd like to thank Rick Spielman, the Wilf family, Coach Zimmer, Coach Priefer and Rob Brzezinski for giving me this opportunity. I'm proud to be able to stay with the team that drafted me coming out of college and I look forward to what is in

SPECIAL TEAMS • Page 24

Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter Blair Walsh signed a 4-year $14 million extention on July 26th

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 23

Barr is looking to build off a great 2014 COREY YUMAN Staff Writer

ANTHONY TEDDY BRIDGEWATER BARR Born: March 18,10, 1992 Born: November 1992 College:Louisville UCLA College: Drafted: 2014 1st Round (9th overall) (32nd overall) 2013 Stats: 70 combined 3,970 Yards, tackles, two 31 TD, 4four INT,sacks, 71% Pass forced fumbles, three Completion, 171.1 QB fumble one Ratingrecoveries, at Louisville touchdown. Cordarrelle Patterson: “TeddyQuestions: has been good. I healthy to haveCan hadhe thestay opportunity an entire gothrough in with him a fewNFL times. season? He is looking good. He is much devlop aHow young guywill andhe I feel like inhis hisgoing secondtoyear of star being be the of an thisNFL teamlinebacker? one of these years.” RickStrengths: Spielman: “He Size, Speed, Passsome rush, is going to have Instincts, Football growing pains as weIQ go through this, but he has been extremely impressive on his approach with not only what he does on the field but what he also does off it with how hard he is working and studying to understand Norv Turner’s system.”

For someone that came into the NFL last year, having only played two years of linebacker in college, you sure wouldn’t be able to tell based on how he performed. Anthony Barr is entering his sophomore year in the NFL, and coming off rookie year that caught many Vikings fans off guard. Most people expected him to be good, but this year it seems that most realize the ceiling on how good he can become is as high as Barr wants it to be. “My expectations are always very high, higher than anyone has of myself,” Barr said. If true, he is setting some lofty expectations of himself. Barr started played his college career with UCLA. Upon entering the program, Barr was used as not only just a running back, but also saw time as a wide receiver, and a tight end. He spent two years rotating these positions, before entering his junior year and being placed in the linebacker spot. The spot would prove to be a natural fit for Barr, as his first year in the position saw him net 13.5 sacks. Barr also was named to the first team all Pac-12 in 2011, and 2012. The 2014 NFL draft came, and Barr was seen as one of the top LB talents available. Finding a team was inevitable, and the Vikings swooped in and grabbed in with the ninth overall pick. Some scoffed at taking him so early, but Barr would break any expectations or doubts. Playing in only his third year

at linebacker, Barr was dropped into a situation and asked to do a lot of different things. To his credit, he took all the responsibility, and excelled in almost every way. In his first year Barr recorded 70 tackles, three passes defended, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and four sacks, a staggering stat line for someone with such inexperienced in his position, and role in the professional league. In addition to his stat line, Barr missed eight snaps in his NFL debut. After that, up until his injury in week 13, Barr only missed a total of two snaps, a

BARR • Page 24

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Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter Barr is hoping to play the entire 2015 season after playing in 12 games in 2014.

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24 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

BARR “Playing in only his third year at linebacker, Barr was dropped into a situation and asked to do a lot of different things. To his credit, he took all the responsibility, and excelled in almost every way.” continued from 23 true workhorse in the making. While these numbers were great, it doesn’t mean he had a perfect season. Barr missed whopping 22 tackles. This truly showed to be his biggest weakness, and something that clearly needs t be addressed if he wants to make it into that top tier of linebacker. But while Barr has his tackling to address, and could use some more work at his run defense, he has shown strength in other areas. He has shown a strong blitz coming down the middle, and his pass coverage has been very good. His ability to play in the defensive end spot, while rushing from the outside has also proved to be a valuable

asset for the Vikings. Barr will be coming into the 2015 season looking to build on the things he did well, keep working at the things that need improving, and try to come back from knee injury without losing a step. Barr ended up sitting out of this years OTA’s indicated that it was a decision made by all parties involved to ensure his health. “We talked and had a discussion and I feel it was good. We took steps to get me healthy, healthy as possible coming to training camp,” Barr said. Barr is about healthy now that camp has rolled around “Just about, yeah,” Barr said. Barr will have some help, in

this years 2nd round draft pick, and former UCLA teammate Eric Kendricks. “Nah, I get my own room this year,” Barr said while laughing at the question of if he would have to share a room with Kendricks during training camp. Two explosive young linebackers, and former teammates gives this Vikings defense a very promising future. “Let’s get it!” Barr said.

SPECIAL TEAMS “‘I’m just excited about signing an extension with the Vikings, and staying here for another five years total,’ Walsh said.” continued from 22 store for the future of this organization,” Walsh said. The position that most teams would prefer never had to see the field is played by punter Jeff Locke. He also comes into training camp unopposed. Locke is starting up his third year as a punter for the Vikes. It has been said that both Locke and Walsh are looking bigger than they have in the past. The only spot that could be at risk in this core group is the spot of the long snapper. Cullen Loeffler is entering the 2015 season as the longest tenured Vikings player. He started with the team back in 2004, and the job has been his since. The competition comes new to the team Kevin McDermott. While this may be seen as competition, trios of special teams units tend to stay intact for long amounts of time, so it may be a long shot for Mcdermott to break through. The return game for the Vi-

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kings could be shaken up as well. Special Teams coach Mike Priefer said that the punt return spot is going to be a competition, but as of right now it is Marcus Sherels job to lose. Keep an eye on rookie Stefon Diggs as Priefer also had a lot of positive words to say about him. On the kick return side, there has been a lot of talk about regression concerning Cordarrelle Patterson, and it can be said that his average yards per return lowered. However, he still ranked sixth in return yards, so with his sophomore slump behind him, and a few different players back in the rotation, look to see him attempt to recapture some of that magic from his first season. It’s been long said that consistency is key, and at the moment the Minnesota Vikings special teams unit looks to be living by that motto.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 25

2015 VIKINGS CA MP ROSTER # 69 62 44 23 55 61 36 81 5 60 39 68 57 38 95 14 90 85 32 76 62 73 86 2 15 63 52 97 41 20 79 6 13 50 99 12 92 98 51 4 75 54 67 9 48 71 18

NAME Aiyegbusi, Babatunde Anunoby, Chigbo Asiata, Matt Banyard, Joe Barr, Anthony Berger, Joe Blanton, Robert Bostick, Brandon Bridgewater, Teddy Bykowski, Carter Carter, Jalil Clemmings, T.J. Cole, Audie Coleman, Justin Crichton, Scott Diggs, Stefon Dubose, B.J. Ellison, Rhett Exum Jr., Antone Faciane, Isame Farniok, Tom Floyd, Sharrif Ford, Chase Foster, Donte Fruechte, Isaac Fusco, Brandon Greenway, Chad Griffen, Everson Harris, Anthony Harris, DuJuan Harris, Mike Heinicke, Taylor Hill, Shaun Hodges, Gerald Hunter, Danielle Johnson, Charles Johnson, Tom Joseph, Linval Kaddu, Josh Kafka, Mike Kalil, Matt Kendricks, Eric Kerin, Zac Leslie, Jordan Line, Zach Loadholt, Phil Locke, Jeff

POS. OL DT RB RB LB G S TE QB T CB OL LB CB DE WR DL TE S DT C DT TE WR WR G LB DE S RB T QB QB LB DE WR DT DT LB QB T LB C WR FB T P

HT. 6-9 6-5 6-0 5-10 6-5 6-5 6-1 6-3 6-2 6-7 6-1 6-5 6-5 5-11 6-3 6-0 6-4 6-5 6-0 6-4 6-4 6-3 6-6 6-1 6-3 6-4 6-2 6-3 6-1 5-8 6-5 6-1 6-3 6-2 6-5 6-2 6-3 6-4 6-3 6-3 6-7 6-0 6-5 6-3 6-1 6-8 6-0

WT. AGE EXP. COLLEGE 345 27 1 No College 320 26 2 Morehouse 219 28 4 Utah 221 26 3 Texas-El Paso 255 23 2 UCLA 305 33 11 Michigan Tech 200 25 4 Notre Dame 250 26 3 Newberry 215 22 2 Louisville 313 25 2 Iowa State 205 26 1 Akron 309 23 0 Pittsburgh 248 26 4 North Carolina St. 185 22 0 Tennessee 273 23 2 Oregon St. 195 21 0 Maryland 284 23 0 Louisville 250 26 4 USC 219 24 2 Virginia Tech 302 24 1 Florida International 301 23 0 Iowa State 311 24 3 Florida 255 25 3 Miami (Fla.) 199 24 1 Ohio 202 24 0 Minnesota 306 25 5 Slippery Rock 242 32 10 Iowa 273 27 6 USC 192 23 0 Virginia 203 26 5 Troy 338 26 4 UCLA 210 22 0 Old Dominion 230 35 14 Maryland 236 24 3 Penn State 252 20 0 LSU 215 26 3 Grand Valley State 288 30 5 Southern Mississippi 329 26 6 East Carolina 252 25 4 Oregon 225 28 4 Northwestern 317 26 4 USC 232 23 0 UCLA 305 23 1 Toledo 209 23 0 BYU 233 25 3 SMU 345 29 7 Oklahoma 195 25 3 UCLA

# 46 8 78 56 47 31 24 30 84 45 28 27 25 83 91 49 29 40 96 64 82 34 74 35 22 65 19 33 72 94 37 64 11 3 58 26 43 17 66

NAME Loeffler, Cullen Lutman, Gavin Mackey, Leon Mauti, Michael McDermott, Kevin McKinnon, Jerick Munnerlyn, Captain Newman, Terence Patterson, Cordarrelle Peters, Brian Peterson, Adrian Prater, Shaun Price, Jabari Pruitt, Mycole Rayford, Caesar Renaud, Blake Rhodes, Xavier Robinson, Edmond Robison, Brian Rose, Chrishon Rudolph, Kyle Sendejo, Andrew Shepherd, Austin Sherels, Marcus Smith, Harrison Sullivan, John Thielen, Adam Thomas, Josh Thompson, Tyrus Trattou, Justin Van Dyke, DeMarcus Vardaro, Bobby Wallace, Mike Walsh, Blair Watts, Brandon Waynes, Trae Williams, Dominique Wright, Jarius Yankey, David

POS. LS WR DE LB LS RB CB CB WR LB RB CB CB TE DE FB CB LB DE DT TE S OL CB S C WR CB OL DE CB OL WR K LB CB RB WR G

HT. 6-5 6-4 6-5 6-2 6-4 5-9 5-9 5-10 6-2 6-4 6-1 5-10 5-11 6-2 6-7 6-2 6-1 6-3 6-3 6-4 6-6 6-1 6-4 5-10 6-2 6-4 6-2 5-11 6-5 6-4 6-1 6-5 6-0 5-10 6-2 6-0 5-9 5-10 6-6

RESERVE/INJURED 59 Matthews, Casey LB 6-1 ACTIVE/NON-FOOTBALL INJURY 16 Daniels, DaVaris WR 6-1 93 Stephen, Shamar DT 6-5 ACTIVE/PHYSICALLY UNABLE TO PERFORM 21 Robinson, Josh CB 5-10

ALPHABETICAL

WT. AGE EXP. COLLEGE 247 34 12 Texas 211 24 0 Pittsburg State 260 26 1 Texas Tech 243 25 3 Penn State 240 25 3 UCLA 205 23 2 Georgia Southern 195 27 7 South Carolina 197 36 13 Kansas State 220 24 3 Tennessee 235 26 1 Northwestern 220 30 9 Oklahoma 190 25 4 Iowa 200 22 2 North Carolina 258 23 0 Southern Illinois 272 29 2 Washington 252 22 0 Boise State 218 25 3 Florida State 245 23 0 Newberry 259 32 9 Texas 303 24 0 East Carolina 265 25 5 Notre Dame 210 27 5 Rice 327 23 0 Alabama 175 27 5 Minnesota 214 26 4 Notre Dame 310 29 8 Notre Dame 195 24 2 Minnesota State 185 26 5 Buffalo 330 23 0 Oklahoma 258 26 4 Florida 187 26 4 Miami 317 23 0 Boston College 205 28 7 Mississippi 170 25 4 Georgia 231 24 2 Georgia Tech 190 23 0 Michigan State 205 24 1 Wagner 191 25 4 Arkansas 320 23 2 Stanford

245

Oregon

201 310

22 24

0 2

Notre Dame UCONN

199

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MSU REPORTER • 27

Photos by

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28 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

2015 NFL WEEKLY SCHEDULE

WEEK 1 Thursday, Sept. 10 Steelers at Patriots, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Sunday, Sept. 13 Colts at Bills, 1 p.m. (CBS) Packers at Bears, 1 p.m. (Fox) Chiefs at Texans, 1 p.m. (CBS) Panthers at Jaguars, 1 p.m. (Fox) Browns at Jets, 1 p.m. (CBS) Seahawks at Rams, 1 p.m. (Fox) Dolphins at Redskins, 1 p.m. (CBS) Saints at Cardinals, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Lions at Chargers, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Ravens at Broncos, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Bengals at Raiders, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Titans at Buccaneers, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Giants at Cowboys, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Sept. 14 Eagles at Falcons, 7:10 p.m. (ESPN) Vikings at 49ers, 10:20 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 2 Thursday, Sept. 17 Broncos at Chiefs, 8:25 p.m. (CBS/NFLN) Sunday, Sept. 20 Patriots at Bills, 1 p.m. (CBS) Texans at Panthers, 1 p.m. (CBS) Cardinals at Bears, 1 p.m. (Fox) Chargers at Bengals, 1 p.m. (CBS) Titans at Browns, 1 p.m. (CBS) Lions at Vikings, 1 p.m. (Fox) Buccaneers at Saints, 1 p.m. (Fox) Falcons at Giants, 1 p.m. (Fox) 49ers at Steelers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Rams at Redskins, 1 p.m. (Fox) Dolphins at Jaguars, 4:05 p.m. (CBS) Ravens at Raiders, 4:05 p.m. (CBS) Cowboys at Eagles, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Seahawks at Packers, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Sept. 21 Jets at Colts, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 3 Thursday, Sept. 24 Redskins at Giants, 8:25 p.m. (CBS/NFLN) Sunday, Sept. 27 Bengals at Ravens, 1 p.m. (CBS) Saints at Panthers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Raiders at Browns, 1 p.m. (CBS) Falcons at Cowboys, 1 p.m. (Fox) Buccaneers at Texans, 1 p.m. (Fox) Chargers at Vikings, 1 p.m. (CBS) Jaguars at Patriots, 1 p.m. (CBS) Eagles at Jets, 1 p.m. (Fox) Steelers at Rams, 1 p.m. (CBS) Colts at Titans, 1 p.m. (CBS) 49ers at Cardinals, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Bills at Dolphins, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Bears at Seahawks, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Broncos at Lions, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Sept, 28 Chiefs at Packers, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 4 Thursday, Oct. 1 Ravens at Steelers, 8:25 p.m. (CBS/NFLN) Sunday, Oct. 4 Jets vs. Dolphins (London), 9:30 a.m. (CBS) Texans at Falcons, 1 p.m. (CBS) Giants at Bills, 1 p.m. (Fox) Raiders at Bears, 1 p.m. (CBS) Chiefs at Bengals, 1 p.m. (CBS) Jaguars at Colts, 1 p.m. (CBS) Panthers at Buccaneers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Eagles at Redskins, 1 p.m. (Fox) Browns at Chargers, 4:05 p.m. (CBS) Rams at Cardinals, 4:25 p.m. (Fox)

Vikings at Broncos, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Packers at 49ers, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Cowboys at Saints, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Oct. 5 Lions at Seahawks, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN)

BYES: TENNESSEE, NEW ENGLAND WEEK 5 Thursday, Oct. 8 Colts at Texans, 8:25 p.m. (CBS/NFLN) Sunday, Oct. 11 Redskins at Falcons, 1 p.m. (Fox) Browns at Ravens, 1 p.m. (CBS) Seahawks at Bengals, 1 p.m. (Fox) Rams at Packers, 1 p.m. (CBS) Bears at Chiefs, 1 p.m. (Fox) Saints at Eagles, 1 p.m. (Fox) Jaguars at Buccaneers, 1 p.m. (CBS) Bills at Titans, 1 p.m. (CBS) Cardinals at Lions, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Patriots at Cowboys, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Broncos at Raiders, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) 49ers at Giants*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Oct. 12 Steelers at Chargers, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) BYES: CAROLINA, MIAMI, MINNESOTA, NEW YORK JETS WEEK 6 Thursday, Oct. 15 Falcons at Saints, 8:25 p.m. (CBS/NFLN) Sunday, Oct. 18 Bengals at Bills, 1 p.m. (CBS) Broncos at Browns, 1 p.m. (CBS) Bears at Lions, 1 p.m. (Fox) Texans at Jaguars, 1 p.m. (CBS) Chiefs at Vikings, 1 p.m. (CBS) Redskins at Jets, 1 p.m. (Fox) Cardinals at Steelers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Dolphins at Titans, 1 p.m. (CBS) Panthers at Seahawks, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Chargers at Packers, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Ravens at 49ers, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Patriots at Colts*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Oct. 19 Giants at Eagles, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) BYES: DALLAS, OAKLAND, ST. LOUIS, TAMPA BAY WEEK 7 Thursday, Oct. 22 Seahawks at 49ers, 8:25 p.m. (CBS/NFLN) Sunday, Oct. 25 Bills vs. Jaguars (London), 9:30 a.m. (TBA) Vikings at Lions, 1 p.m. (Fox) Saints at Colts, 1 p.m. (Fox) Steelers at Chiefs, 1 p.m. (CBS) Texans at Dolphins, 1 p.m. (CBS) Jets at Patriots, 1 p.m. (CBS) Browns at Rams, 1 p.m. (CBS) Falcons at Titans, 1 p.m. (Fox) Buccaneers at Redskins, 1 p.m. (Fox) Raiders at Chargers, 4:05 p.m. (CBS) Cowboys at Giants, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Eagles at Panthers*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Oct. 26 Ravens at Cardinals, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) BYES: CHICAGO, CINCINNATI, DENVER, GREEN BAY WEEK 8 Thursday, Oct. 29 Dolphins at Patriots, 8:25 p.m. (CBS/

NFLN) Sunday, Nov. 1 Lions vs. Chiefs (London), 9:30 a.m. (Fox) Buccaneers at Falcons, 1 p.m. (Fox) Chargers at Ravens, 1 p.m. (CBS) Vikings at Bears, 1 p.m. (Fox) Cardinals at Browns, 1 p.m. (Fox) Titans at Texans, 1 p.m. (CBS) Giants at Saints, 1 p.m. (Fox) Bengals at Steelers, 1 p.m. (CBS) 49ers at Rams, 1 p.m. (Fox) Jets at Raiders, 4:05 p.m. (CBS) Seahawks at Cowboys, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Packers at Broncos*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Nov. 2 Colts at Panthers, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) BYES: BUFFALO, JACKSONVILLE, PHILADELPHIA, WASHINGTON WEEK 9 Thursday, Nov. 5 Browns at Bengals, 8:25 p.m. (NFLN) Sunday, Nov. 8 Dolphins at Bills, 1 p.m. (CBS) Packers at Panthers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Rams at Vikings, 1 p.m. (Fox) Redskins at Patriots, 1 p.m. (Fox) Titans at Saints, 1 p.m. (CBS) Jaguars at Jets, 1 p.m. (CBS) Raiders at Steelers, 1 p.m. (CBS) Falcons at 49ers, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Giants at Buccaneers, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Broncos at Colts, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Eagles at Cowboys*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Nov. 9 Bears at Chargers, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) BYES: ARIZONA, BALTIMORE, DETROIT, HOUSTON, KANSAS CITY, SEATTLE WEEK 10 Thursday, Nov. 12 Bills at Jets, 8:25 p.m. (NFLN) Sunday, Nov. 15 Jaguars at Ravens, 1 p.m. (CBS) Lions at Packers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Dolphins at Eagles, 1 p.m. (CBS) Browns at Steelers, 1 p.m. (CBS) Bears at Rams, 1 p.m. (Fox) Cowboys at Buccaneers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Panthers at Titans, 1 p.m. (Fox) Saints at Redskins, 1 p.m. (Fox) Vikings at Raiders, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Chiefs at Broncos, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Patriots at Giants, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Cardinals at Seahawks*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Nov. 16 Texans at Bengals, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) BYES: ATLANTA, INDIANAPOLIS, SAN DIEGO, SAN FRANCISCO WEEK 11 Thursday, Nov. 19 Titans at Jaguars, 8:25 p.m. (NFLN) Sunday, Nov. 22 Colts at Falcons, 1 p.m. (CBS) Rams at Ravens, 1 p.m. (Fox) Redskins at Panthers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Broncos at Bears, 1 p.m. (CBS) Raiders at Lions, 1 p.m. (CBS) Jets at Texans, 1 p.m. (CBS) Cowboys at Dolphins, 1 p.m. (Fox) Packers at Vikings, 1 p.m. (Fox) Buccaneers at Eagles, 1 p.m. (Fox) Bengals at Cardinals, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

49ers at Seahawks, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Chiefs at Chargers*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Nov. 23 Bills at Patriots, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN)

BYES: CLEVELAND, NEW ORLEANS, NEW YORK GIANTS, PITTSBURGH WEEK 12 Thursday, Nov. 26 Eagles at Lions, 12:30 p.m. (Fox) Panthers at Cowboys, 4:30 p.m. (CBS) Bears at Packers, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Sunday, Nov. 29 Vikings at Falcons, 1 p.m. (Fox) Rams at Bengals, 1 p.m. (Fox) Saints at Texans, 1 p.m. (Fox) Buccaneers at Colts, 1 p.m. (Fox) Chargers at Jaguars, 1 p.m. (CBS) Bills at Chiefs, 1 p.m. (CBS) Dolphins at Jets, 1 p.m. (CBS) Raiders at Titans, 1 p.m. (CBS) Giants at Redskins, 1 p.m. (Fox) Cardinals at 49ers, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Steelers at Seahawks, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Patriots at Broncos*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Nov. 30 Ravens at Browns, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 13 Thursday, Dec. 3 Packers at Lions, 8:25 p.m. (CBS/NFLN) Sunday, Dec. 6 Texans at Bills, 1 p.m. (CBS) 49ers at Bears, 1 p.m. (Fox) Bengals at Browns, 1 p.m. (CBS) Ravens at Dolphins, 1 p.m. (CBS) Seahawks at Vikings, 1 p.m. (Fox) Panthers at Saints, 1 p.m. (Fox) Jets at Giants, 1 p.m. (CBS) Cardinals at Rams, 1 p.m. (Fox) Falcons at Buccaneers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Jaguars at Titans, 1 p.m. (CBS) Chiefs at Raiders, 4:05 p.m. (CBS) Broncos at Chargers, 4:05 p.m. (CBS) Eagles at Patriots, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Colts at Steelers*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Dec. 7 Cowboys at Redskins, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 14 Thursday, Dec. 10 Vikings at Cardinals, 8:25 p.m. (NFLN) Sunday, Dec. 13 Falcons at Panthers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Redskins at Bears, 1 p.m. (Fox) Steelers at Bengals, 1 p.m. (CBS) 49ers at Browns, 1 p.m. (Fox) Patriots at Texans, 1 p.m. (CBS) Colts at Jaguars, 1 p.m. (CBS) Chargers at Chiefs, 1 p.m. (CBS) Titans at Jets, 1 p.m. (CBS) Bills at Eagles, 1 p.m. (CBS) Lions at Rams, 1 p.m. (Fox) Saints at Buccaneers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Raiders at Broncos, 4:05 p.m. (CBS) Cowboys at Packers, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Seahawks at Ravens*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Dec. 14 Giants at Dolphins, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 15 Thursday, Dec. 17 Buccaneers at Rams, 8:25 p.m. (NFLN) Saturday, Dec. 19 Jets at Cowboys, 8:25 p.m. (NFLN) Sunday, Dec. 20

Chiefs at Ravens, 1 p.m. (CBS) Texans at Colts, 1 p.m. (CBS) Falcons at Jaguars, 1 p.m. (Fox) Bears at Vikings, 1 p.m. (Fox) Titans at Patriots, 1 p.m. (CBS) Panthers at Giants, 1 p.m. (Fox) Cardinals at Eagles, 1 p.m. (Fox) Bills at Redskins, 1 p.m. (CBS) Packers at Raiders, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Browns at Seahawks, 4:05 p.m. (Fox) Broncos at Steelers, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Dolphins at Chargers, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Bengals at 49ers*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Dec. 21 Lions at Saints 8:30 p.m. ESPN WEEK 16 Thursday, Dec. 24 Chargers at Raiders, 8:25 p.m. (NFLN) Saturday, Dec. 26 Redskins at Eagles, 8:25 p.m. (NFLN) Sunday, Dec. 27 Panthers at Falcons, 1 p.m. (Fox) Cowboys at Bills, 1 p.m. (Fox) 49ers at Lions, 1 p.m. (Fox) Browns at Chiefs, 1 p.m. (CBS) Colts at Dolphins, 1 p.m. (CBS) Giants at Vikings, 1 p.m. (Fox) Jaguars at Saints, 1 p.m. (CBS) Patriots at Jets, 1 p.m. (CBS) Bears at Buccaneers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Texans at Titans, 1 p.m. (CBS) Packers at Cardinals, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Rams at Seahawks, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Steelers at Ravens*, 8:30 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Dec. 28 Bengals at Broncos, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 17 Sunday, Jan. 3 Saints at Falcons, 1:00 p.m. (Fox) Jets at Bills, 1:00 p.m. (CBS) Buccaneers at Panthers, 1:00 p.m. (Fox) Lions at Bears, 1 p.m. (Fox) Ravens at Bengals, 1 p.m. (CBS) Steelers at Browns, 1 p.m. (CBS) Redskins at Cowboys, 1 p.m. (Fox) Vikings at Packers, 1 p.m. (Fox) Jaguars at Texans, 1 p.m. (CBS) Titans at Colts, 1 p.m. (CBS) Raiders at Chiefs, 1 p.m. (CBS) Patriots at Dolphins, 1 p.m. (CBS) Eagles at Giants, 1 p.m. (Fox) Seahawks at Cardinals, 4:25 p.m. (Fox) Chargers at Broncos, 4:25 p.m. (CBS) Rams at 49ers, 4:25 p.m. (Fox)

* Sunday night games in Weeks 5-16 subject to change; Week 17 night game TBD

POSTSEASON AFC and NFC wild-card playoffs Saturday, Jan. 9, and Sunday, Jan. 10, 2016 AFC and NFC divisional playoffs Saturday, Jan. 16 and Sunday, Jan. 17, 2016 AFC and NFC championship games Sunday, Jan. 24, 2016 Pro Bowl (Aloha Stadium, Honolulu) Sunday, January 31, 2016 (ESPN) Super Bowl 50 (Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, Calif.) Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016 (CBS)

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 29

Offensive Line needs to step up for team success in 2015 OFFENSIVE TEDDY BRIDGEWATER LINE Born: November 10, 1992 PROJECTED

DEPTH CHART:

College: Louisville Drafted: 2014 1st Round Left Tackle: (32nd overall) 1) Matt Kalil #75 2) Tyrus Thompson #72 2013 Stats: 3,970 Yards, 31 TD, 4 INT, 71% Pass Left Guard: Completion, 171.1 QB 1)Rating Brandon Fusco #63 at Louisville 2) David Yankey #63 Cordarrelle Patterson: Center: “Teddy has been good. I 1) John #65 to have had theSullivan opportunity Joehim Berger #61times. go in2)with a few He is looking good. He is Guard: a youngRight guy and I feel like 1) Mike Harris his going to be the#41 star 2) T.J. Clemmings #68 of this team one of these years.” Right Tackle:“He Rick Spielman: 1) Phil Loadholt #71 is going to have some 2) Austinpains Shepherd growing as we#74 go through this, but he has for aimpressive spot: beenPlaying extremely Babatunde Aiyegbusi on his approach with #69 not Bobby Vardaro #64 only what he does on the Carter Bykowski field but what he also#60 does off it with how hard he is working and studying to understand Norv Turner’s system.”

COREY YUMAN Staff Writer The offensive line of the Minnesota Vikings is looking to improve upon what was often a shaky, and at times injury-ridden year in 2014. 15 men will be coming into Mankato, and vye for a roster spot. Some with a start locked, others with starting aspirations, and a few just hoping training camp will end with a Vikings jersey still in tact. There won’t be much competition in terms the large majority of the starting line up. The Vikings will have four of last years starters returning including Matt Kalil, Brandon Fusco, John Sullivan and Phil Loadholt. Kalil is coming off what some have considered to be a disappointing 2014. Kalil did not miss any games, however he was dealing with injuries for the majority of it, which is naturally going to slow down even the greatest of players. Kalil comes into the 2015 training camp coming off of surgeries on both knees, but is still the projected starter. As banged and bruised as Kalil may have been, it’s to his credit of not missing games. The Vikings could really use a healthy, and fresh feeling Kalil, as he will be a vital part of how his line does. Coming up on a contract year, Kalil has just as much to prove if he wants to ensure a nice payday, and long term deal. Fusco played the right guard spot in 2014, but this offseason has seen a change of pace for him. He is now playing in the left guard spot, and covering for

Yohanes Ashenafi - MSU Reporter With Adrian Peterson back, the offensive line will have to step up big for the Vikings to have sucess in 2015.

Teddy Bridgewater’s backside. Fusco is another player on this line that spent last year dealing with injuries. Only two days after he signed a contract extension he suffered an injury. Hopefully with the new spot, and an offseason to recover, Fusco will shine. Sullivan brings some veteran experience to the line. Playing at Center, Sullivan brings a great ability for run blocking. He could use some work at his pass protection, which is something to keep an eye on for improvement during training camp. The last of the players with an almost guaranteed starting spot

PARTICIPATE IN THE VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ORAL HISTORY PROJECT! The University Archives at Minnesota State University Mankato Library is conducting an oral history project to document Vikings Training Camp at Minnesota State University, Mankato. We are looking for fans, community partners, Minnesota State University employees, and Viking players/ coaches/staff—past and present—to share their stories. Interested in being interviewed? •Email archives@mnsu.edu or call the University Archives at 507-3891029. We’ll ask a few general biographical questions about you and your experience to prepare for the actual interview. •Or look for us at Training Camp. Interviews will be conducted during the months of June through August 2015. Learn more about the Vikings Training Camp Oral History Project here: http://lib.mnsu.edu/archives/oralh/vikings.html

A member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System and an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity University. This document is available in alternative format to individuals with disabiliites by calling Library Services at 507-389-5952 (V), 800-627-3529 or 711 (MRS/TTY).

is Loadholt. A player that is also good with the run block, but he too will have to improve on his blocking ability on passing plays. Unfortunately he suffered the injury bug as well last year, tearing a pectoral muscle. That is not stopping Loadholt this year. “I feel good, I feel healthy,” Loadholt said. With Fusco’s move to the left, the only true starting spot up for grabs right guard. The competition with this comes down to two or three players, and may be the most intriguing of all the camp battles. When Coach Zimmer addressed how many people would

compete for the spot he said “Actually, quite a few. We just have to see who ends up going there and where they go”. This offseason the Vikings signed veteran guard Joe Berger. Some look at him as the lead candidate, if for no other reason than he has the experience edge compared to others. There is a solid argument to be said about him though, in that he may be better suited as a depth option on the bench, because he can play 3 of the interior spots on the line.

OFFENSIVE LINE • Page 18

30 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

OFFENSIVE LINE “Kalil is coming off what some have considered to be a disappointing 2014. Kalil did not miss any games, however he was dealing with injuries for the majority of it, which is naturally going to slow down even the greatest of players.” continued from 29 That could prove to be a valuable asset if injuries occur again. TJ Clemmings is also seen is a viable option. A rookie, coming out of this year’s draft in the 4th round, it would be a big start for his early NFL career. He has started the off season as the number one guard, but has seen some time at tackle, which may end up be where he stays. “We decided we are probably going to keep T.J Clemmings at tackle. I think that is his best position after going through all of OTA’s and minicamp,” coach Mike Zimmer said. Some see him as a major steal in the draft and expectations are high for him. The man that stole his reps in the late off-season is Tyrus Thompson, another rookie this year. He may be somewhat of a long shot for the starting spot, but don’t count him out. Whether Berger or a rookie wins the spot, Berger is not a long-term fix, so the development of these promising rookies is essential for the future of the Vikings line.

Yohanes Ashenafi - MSU Reporter Phil Loadholt (left) and Matt Kalil (right) will anchor the offensive line at Right and Left Tackle in 2015.

The Vikings made sure to add some more depth to their line with the additions of Mike Harris and Carter Bykoski who will

likely be battling the offseason trying to obtain the swing tackle spot on the roster. Lastly comes Babatunde Ai-

yegbusi, a man that has captured the attention of a lot of Vikings fans this offseason. It is too early to tell what kind of player he will

end up being, but if he can live up to some of his potential he may be a name that you hear a lot in the coming years.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 31

Linebackers: Young with a mix of old TEDDY LINEBACKERS BRIDGEWATER Born: November 10, 1992 PROJECTED

DEPTH CHART:

College: Louisville Drafted: 2014 1st Round Strong(32nd Sideoverall) Linebacker: 1) Anthony Barr #55 2) Stats: Josh Kaddu 2013 3,970 #51 Yards, 3) Brain Peters 31 TD, 4 INT, 71%#45 Pass Completion, 171.1 QB Middle Linebacker: Rating at Louisville 1) Eric Kendricks #54 2) Audie Cole #57 Cordarrelle Patterson: 3) Micheal Mauti #56 I “Teddy has been good. 4) Edmond Robinson #40to have had the opportunity go in with him a few times. Week Side Linebacker: He is looking good. He is 1) Chad Greenway a young guy and I feel#52 like 2) Gerald Hodges his going to be the #50 star Brandon Watts #58 of3)this team one of these years.” Biggest Postion Rick Spielman:Battle: “He is going to have some Starting Middle growing pains Linebacker as we go through this, but he has Eric extremely Kednricksimpressive (101 solo been tackles, four sacks on his approach withatnot 2014) only UCLA what heindoes on the vs. field but what he also does Audie Cole how (22 solo off it with hardtackles he is and one pass defended in working and studying to understand2014) Norv Turner’s system.”

Yohanes Ashenafi - MSU Reporter Chad Greenway will quarterback the Vikings defense as well as mentor plenty of young talent at linebacker

COREY YUMAN Staff Writer

The potential of the Vikings linebacker group is a favorite at this years training camp. Led by someone coming off a hot rookie season, a promising rookie new to camp, and a vet that will be trying to prove that he is still able to go. It could really prove to be a surprise strong point for thie 2015 team, and perhaps a pivotal position for the Vikings defense for years to come. Anthony Barr is returning for his second season, with his starting position securely in place.

The biggest worry on Barr is that he is coming off a knee injury, so it will be intriguing to see if he can avoid any sort of regression while trying to stay healthy. Barr is just about healthy, and looking to get back on the field in 2015. “Just about, yea,” Barr said. Barr’s ability to also play the defensive end position on some plays will make room for someone to get some extra snaps during the season. Barr made it clear that he benefited from a team effort when asked how it felt to be a key role last year. “If everyone does their job then someone gotta make a play

and I was fortunate enough to get some good positions,” Barr said. Eric Kendricks, former UCLA teammate of Barr, and 2015 second round pick is looking like a top contender for the middle linebacker spot early on. He comes off a stint at UCLA where he claimed the top spot on UCLA’s all time total tackles records. “It’s a challenge, and I accept it,” Kendricks said concerning how he’s taking to the middle linebacker spot. Getting Kendricks where the Vikings did in the draft was an absolute steal. Look for Kendricks to bring some much needed

energy to this linebacker group. The most controversial member of this linebacker group seems to be one of the Vikings that’s been around for a while, and that’s in Chad Greenway. Greenway has been going backwards in terms of skill, and stats for sometime now. Right now, it would seem that the relationship is staying together due to loyalty, and Greenway providing a veteran presence. Kendricks even noted multiple times how much Greenway has been helping him. Vikings Defensive Coordinator

LINEBACKERS • Page 33

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Asiata and McKinnon will challenge for backup postion TOMMY WIITA Staff Writer

RUNNING BACKS

PROJECTED DEPTH CHART: Running Backs: 1) Adrian Peterson #28 2) Jerick McKinnon #31 3) Matt Asiata #44 4) Joe Baynard #23 5) DuJuan Harris #20 6) Dominique Williams #43 Full Backs: 1) Zach Line #48 2) Blake Renaud #49 Jerick McKinnon: “This only gives me a chance to get better from getting mentored by someone as great as Adrian [Peterson], I’m excited to play alongside him this season.”

The highlight of this group for the Minnesota Vikings is simply four words: All Day Is Back. Adrian “All Day” Peterson has returned to a Vikings team that struggled from that position a year ago. Matt Asiata and Jerick McKinnon split time at the position in 2014, but the ending results were nowhere near an average season for Peterson. Peterson has already made his individual predictions for the upcoming season, saying 2,500 yards rushing is the goal. Maybe it is a positive that he is setting the bar so high after missing practically the entire season of 2014. It also could be too lofty of a goal to carry on with, but we are talking about a guy that came nine yards short of breaking Eric Dickerson’s all-time season high rushing record- and that was a year after he tore his ACL. Facts are facts, and any NFL fan and Viking fan can tell you that Adrian Peterson is one of the greatest running backs in football’s history. With that being said, the Vikings should most certainly fill that void they were craving for last season when Peterson was not able to

Adrian Peterson leads a talented group of running backs in 2015

play. Through eight seasons with Minnesota, Peterson has racked up 10,190 rushing yards and 82 touchdowns. Not only that, but Adrian has also averaged five yards a carry for his career. Peterson is currently ranked 28th all-time in rushing yards, and will most likely pass Ottis Anderson (10,273), Eddie George (10,441), Tiki Barber (10,449), Thomas Jones (10,591), Jamal Lewis (10,607) and other notable

names this season to keep climbing his own wall of greatness. The former MVP showed up to Training Camp looking like he never missed a day of football, and this has offensive coordinator Norv Turner excited. “He’s way ahead of everyone else. We’re going to do the things he’s best at, that he’s been doing a long time,” Turner said. With a statement like ‘He’s way ahead of everyone else,’ that

Trevor Cokley - MSU Reporter

is profoundly saying something great of Peterson’s offseason. Matt Asiata was the human wrecking-ball for the Vikings at tailback last season. Despite sharing field time with Jerick McKinnon, he still scored all nine rushing touchdowns between the two of them. He only trailed Demarco Murray and

RUNNING BACKS • Page 34

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MSU REPORTER • 33

LINEBACKERS “The biggest worry on Barr is that he is coming off a knee injury, so it will be intriguing to see if he can avoid any sort of regression while trying to stay healthy. ” continued from 31

Yohanes Ashenafi - MSU Reporter The Vikings will their linebackers to step up and help stop the run. The Vikings ranked 25th in the NFL in rushing defense in 2015.

George Edwards echoed similar sentiments. “Chad Greenway, I’ll say it again. You wish you had a team full of those guys. From his work ethic, all the things he brings to the table as a professional, as far as an athlete on and off the field,” Edward said. If he can bring some more help on the field this year, the Vikings LB corp will be in good hands. Audi Cole is among the people eyeing a starting spot, and coming into training camp looking to prove something, and cement his

name in Vikings coaches, and fans alike. He hasn’t gotten many chances to play, but when he has he has shined brightly, including a standout game in the last week of 2014 season against Chicago. Head coach Mike Zimmer showed some optimism in Cole. “I think he understands the defense much better now than he did a year ago and really the things that we’re asking him to do,” Zimmer said. The spot will prove to be his if he can continue to improve. Former teammates at Penn State are also competing for a

spot on this linebacker group in Gerald Hodges and Michael Mauti. Hodges looks to be a sleeper pick for someone to make the team, and maybe even work his way into a starting spot. Mauti is also looking to make the presence felt and try to secure his place on the team. There is a lot of talent in this linebacker corp, and with the addition of Kendricks, and a smarter Barr, and veteran leadership of Greenway, it could turn into one of the most dangerous position groups in the NFL.

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FIF T Y SUM M ER S

Offense is ready to fire on all cylinders With the addition of Mike Wallace and the return of Adrian Peterson, the Vikings’ offense has potenial to be great. TOMMY WIITA Staff Writer Last season, the Minnesota Vikings still had a somewhat successful step forward in the first year of the Mike Zimmer era. The offense finished towards the bottom in statistical comparisons to other teams, but it was all a learning curve. The Vikings had a rookie quarterback in Teddy Bridgewater getting better each game, along with wide receivers like Charles Johnson, Jarius Wright and Adam Thielen making strides in their games as well. The absences were relevant on the squad, as tight end Kyle Rudolph missed most of last season with various injuries, the offensive line was hobbled by season’s end and Adrian Peterson appeared in only one game because of issues off the field. Everyone is back this season, and there is never a time than right now to be excited in what this Vikings offense can do in 2015. Adrian Peterson is already making statements to have “the best season yet” and his goals

Yohanes Ashenafi - MSU Reporter The Vikings offense has tons of speed in Mike Wallace and Stefon Diggs.

being set for 2,500 yards rushing. Something similar to him missing a lot of time like he did last year was when he suffered a torn ACL in 2011, ending his season. He came back the next season and came within nine yards of breaking the all-time season rushing record held by

Eric Dickerson, and won the MVP award. Peterson is the glue for this offense, even when he does not have the ball in his hands. At this point in his career, all he needs is to be on the field and it changes the complexion of the game completely. Last season, quarter-

back Teddy Bridgewater did not have that threating running back to keep the passing game more open with Matt Asiata and Jerick McKinnon in the backfield. No disrespect to either of those two, as they will both contribute this season as well. Adrian Peterson is still the best running back in

DOWNTOWN

the NFL at the age of 30, and there is no one in this league that will deny it. Teddy Bridgewater had a very successful rookie season, and it should only get better from here. The Vikings added speedster Mike Wallace, and have Kyle Rudolph back healthy again. With a budding star in Charles Johnson also adding into the mix, Bridgewater has the options as well. Wallace and Rudolph are capable of becoming pro bowlers this season, as well as Teddy himself. Besides having the receiving weapons, the spark that revs the engine on offense will be the health and performance of the offensive line. Center John Sullivan is a pro bowler, Matt Kalil is hoping for a healthier season, and Phil Loadholdt will continue to be great. If everything is pieced together as it looks on paper, the Vikings could easily score 20, possibly 25 plus a game on teams. They have the weapons, now they just need to put it all together and in no time they will be lighting up scoreboards across the country.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 35

RUNNING BACKS “Peterson is currently ranked 28th all-time in rushing yards, and will most likely pass Ottis Anderson (10,273), Eddie George (10,441), Tiki Barber (10,449), Thomas Jones (10,591), Jamal Lewis (10,607)...” continued from 32

With Adrian Peterson returning to man the backfield for the Minnesota Vikings this season, the running back position looks to be locked down once again. With McKinnon and Asiata being viable options for the Vikings as well, it sure gives Coach Zimmer a lot of depth at that position. Peterson is looking for a big year, as the Vikings are too. “Glad to get back to our goal in getting a championship to Minnesota,” Peterson said. If anything, Adrian will give quarterback Teddy Bridgewater more open looks in the passing game, as the defense will have to respect Adrian’s running ability. AP is the biggest factor heading into this season, as he is the engine to this long locomotive of a team. Expect McKinnon to step up in whatever role Coach ZimYohanes Ashenafi - MSU Reporter mer and Coach Turner assign him with, as well as Asiata.

Marshawn Lynch in rushing touchdowns in the NFL. Asiata is a bruiser-style of runner, as he will not have many explosive runs but will get the job done nonetheless. Asiata also showed up for camp looking a little leaner than last season, as maybe that will open his game up that much more. The future remains to be a question mark for Asiata, as it looks like he could be restricted to goal-line, short-yardage situations. Asiata can still be an option to go to on offense, as last season he was second on the team with receptions as well.

Training Camp and the preseason should determine how things work out for the former University of Utah alum. When the Vikings drafted Jerick McKinnon in last year’s draft, they envisioned a change of pace for Norv Turner’s new boosted offense. McKinnon will not be the face of the offense or anything of that sort, but rather another piece to the puzzle. The way the stage is set right now, McKinnon should be able to get the second most touches to Peterson. Asiata will challenge him; however expect Coach Turner to include McKinnon quite a bit.

Turner once worked with a player named Darren Sproles in San Diego, and McKinnon may be a mirror image to Sproles. “This only gives me a chance to get better from getting mentored by someone as great as Adrian [Peterson],” McKinnon said. “I’m excited to play alongside him this season.” McKinnon was drafted out of Georgia Southern University, where he was an option quarterback. He has transitioned to running back masterfully, and will hopefully contribute even more this season wherever and whenever he is on the field.

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MINNESOTA VIKING ALUMNI A-Z

Once a Viking, Always a Viking A

39 Abdullah, Husain, S, Washington St. 2008-11 50 Abrams, Bobby, LB, Michigan 1993-94 53 Ache, Steve, LB, SW Missouri 1987 72 Adams, Scott, G, Georgia 1991-93 85 Adams, Tom, WR, Minn.-Duluth 1962 7 Adams, Tony, QB, Utah State 1987 68 Addickes, John, C, Baylor 1989 57 Adibi, Xavier, LB, Virginia Tech 2011 67 Alderman, Grady, T, Detroit 1961-74 63 Alex, Keith, G, Texas A&M 1995 90 Alexander, Derrick, DE, Florida St. 1995-98 82 Alexander, Derrick, WR, Michigan 2002 57 Alexander, Rufus, LB, Oklahoma 2008 53 Alipate, Tuineau, LB, Washington St. 1995 21 Allen, Asher, CB, Georgia 2009-11 69 Allen, Jared, DE, Idaho State 2008-13 25 Allen, Nate, DB, Texas Southern 1976-79 21 Allen, Terry, RB, Clemson 1991-94 84 Allison, Aundrae, WR, East Carolina 2007-08 7 Andersen, Morten, K, Michigan St. 2004 46 Anderson, Alfred, RB, Baylor 1984-91 1 Anderson, Gary, K, Syracuse 1998-02 56 Anderson, Scott, C, Missouri 1974,1976 86 Angulo, Richard, TE, West. New Mex. 2003-05 53 Anno, Sam, LB, USC 1987-88 2 Araguz, Leo, P, Stephen F. Austin 2003 69 Arbubakrr, Hasson, DE, Texas Tech 1984 16 Arceneaux, Emmanuel, WR, Alcorn State 2011 16 Archer, R.J., QB, William & Mary 2010 19 Aromashodu, Devin, WR, Auburn 2011-12 79 Arrobio, Chuck, T, USC 1966 44/48 Asiata, Matt, RB, Utah 2012-14 58 Ashley, Walker Lee, LB, Penn St. 1983-88; ’90 79 Asper, Mark, T, Oregon 2012 45 Athas, Pete, CB, Tennessee 1975 33 Avery, John, RB, Mississippi 2003 67 Awasom, Adrian, DE, North Texas 2011 49 Ayanbadejo, Obafemi, FB, San Diego St. 1998-99 92 Ayodele, Remi, DT, Oklahoma 2011

60 Baca, Jeff, G, UCLA 2013 74 Badger, Brad, G, Stanford 2000-01 77/60 Baker, Al, DE, Colorado State 1988 91 Baker, Chase, DT, Boise State 2013 28 Baker, Rashad, S, Tennesseee 2006 86 Baker, Robert, WR, Auburn 2003 37 Baldwin, Randy, RB, Mississippi 1991 96 Ball, Jerry, DT, SMU 1997-99 99 Ballard, Christian, DT/DE, Iowa 2011-12 85 Ballman, Gary, TE, Michigan St. 1973 30 Banks, Antonio, S, Virginia Tech 1998-00 23 Banyard, Joe, RB, Texas-El Paso 2013-14 92 Barker, Roy, DT, No. Carolina 1992-95, 00 33 Barnes, Bill, RB, Wake Forest 1965-66 23 Barnes, Tomur, CB, North Texas 1996 42 Barnett, Harlon, S, Michigan St. 1995-96 55 Barr, Anthony, LB, UCLA 2014 19 Baskett, Hank, WR, New Mexico 2010 32/38 Bass, Anthony, DB, Bethune-Cookman 1998-99 85 Bates, D’Wayne, WR, Northwestern 2002-03 63 Battle, Jim, G, Southern Illinois 1963

52 Bavaro, David, LB, Syracuse 1992 32 Bayless, Rick, RB, Iowa 1989 47 Baylor, Tim, S, Morgan State 1979-80 27 Beamon, Autry, S, East Texas St. 1975-76 87 Beasley, John, TE, California 1967-73 63 Bebout, Nick, T, Wyoming 1980 86 Bedsole, Hal, TE, USC 1964-66 33 Bell, Rick, RB, St. John’s, (Minn.) 1983 78 Bennett, Barry, DE, Concordia 1988 12 Bennett, Barry S., P, Quachita Baptist 1974 2 Bennett, Darren, P, no college 2004-05 23 Bennett, Michael, RB, Wisconsin 2001-05 56/50 Bercich, Pete, LB, Notre Dame 1995-00 61 Berger, Joe, G/C, Michigan Tech 2011-13 17 Berger, Mitch, P, Colorado 1996-01 87 Berrian, Bernard, WR, Fresno State 2008-11 17 Berry, Bob, QB, Oregon 1965-67; 73-76 50 Berry, Ray, LB, Baylor 1987-92 45/87/44 Berton, Sean, TE, North Carolina St 2003-04 21 Bess, Rufus, CB, So. Carolina St. 1982-87 85 Bethea, Ryan, WR, South Carolina 1988 4 Bethel-Thompson, McCleod, QB, Sacramento St. 2012-13 55/54 Biekert, Greg, LB, Colorado 2002-03 75/78 Birk, Matt, C, Harvard 1998-08 73 Bishop, Bill, DT, North Texas St. 1961 59 Bishop, Desmond, LB, California 2013 12 Bishop, Keith, QB, Wheaton 1987 21 Blahak, Joe, CB, Nebraska 1974-75; 1977 59 Blair, Matt, LB, Iowa State 1974-85 68 Blair, Paul, T, Oklahoma State 1990 18/84 Bland, Tony, WR, Florida A&M 1996-98 36 Blanton, Robert, S, Notre Dame 2012-14 20 Blue, Greg, S, Georgia 2006 74 Bobo, Orlando, G, NE Louisiana 1997-98 92/96 Boireau, Michael, DE, Miami (FL) 2000 66 Bolin, Bookie, G, Mississippi 1968-69 9 Bollinger, Brooks, QB, Wisconsin 2006-07 60 Bolston, Conrad, DT, Maryland 2007 3 Bomar, Rhett, QB, Sam Houston St. 2010 13 Bono, Steve, QB, UCLA 1985-86 27 Booker, Lorenzo, RB, Florida State 2010-11 71 Boone, David, DE, East. Michigan 1974 4 Booty, John David, QB, USC 2008 8 Bouman, Todd, QB, St. Cloud State 1997-02 61 Bowie, Larry, G, Purdue 1962-68 62 Boyd, Brent, G, UCLA 1980-86 36 Boyd, Malik, CB, Southern 1994 80 Boylan, Jim, WR, Washington St. 1963 26 Bradford, Ronnie, S, Colorado 2002 50 Brady, Jeff, LB, Kentucky 1995-97 61 Bramlett, Don, DT, Carson-Newman 1987 53 Braxton, David, LB, Wake Forest 1989-90 75 Breitenstein, Bob, T, Tulsa 1967 42 Brewer, Jack, S, Minnesota 2002-03 5 Bridgwater, Teddy, QB, Louisville 2014 4 Brien, Doug, K, California 2002 43/54 Briggs, Greg, S, Texas Southern 1997-98 84 Brim, James, WR, Wake Forest 1987 44 Brim, Michael, CB, Virginia Union 1989-90 54 Brinkley, Jasper, LB, South Carolina 2009-12,’14 6 Brister, Bubby, QB, NE Louisiana 2000 28 Britt, Charlie, S, Georgia 1964

91 Bromell, Lorenzo, DE, Clemson 2002 30 Brown, Bill, RB, Illinois 1962-74 22 Brown, Ivory Lee, RB, Ark.- Pine Bluff 1993 80 Brown, Larry, WR, Mankato State 1987 86 Brown, Norris, TE, Georgia 1983 79 Brown, Pat, T, Central Florida 2010-11 33 Brown, Ralph, CB, Nebraska 2004-05 52 Brown, Richard, LB, San Diego St. 1994-96 89 Brown, Robert, TE, Alcorn A&M 1971 23 Brown, Ted, RB, North Carolina St. 1979-86 24 Brown, Terry, S, Oklahoma St. 1972-75 47 Browner, Joey, S, USC 1983-91 82 Bruer, Bob, TE, Mankato State 1980-84 24 Brune, Larry, S, Rice 1980 13 Bruno, Dave, P, Moraine Valley 1987 20 Bryant, Bobby, CB, South Carolina 1967-80 94 Bryant, Tim, LB, So. Mississippi 1987 74 Buetow, Bart, T, Minnesota 1976-77 75 Bundra, Mike, DT, USC 1964 91 Burrough, John, DE, Wyoming 1999-00 36/27Burton, Brandon, CB, Utah 2011-12 71 Burton, Derek, T, Oklahoma St. 1987 86/11Burton, Stephen, WR, West Texas A&M2011-12 81 Burleson, Nate, WR, Nevada 2003-05 22 Butler, Billy, S/RB, Tenn.-Chattanooga 1962-64 31 Butler, Duane, S, Illinois State 1997-98 66 Byers, Ken, G, Cincinnati 1964-66 60 Bykowski, Carter, T, Iowa State 2014

53 Caesar, Ivan, LB, Boston College 1991 23 Caleb, Jamie, RB, Grambling 1961 23 Calland, Lee, CB, Louisville 1963-65 85 Camarillo, Greg, WR, Stanford 2010-11 55 Campbell, John, LB, Minnesota 1963-64 16 Campbell, Kelly, WR, Georgia Tech 2002-04 17 Cappleman, Bill, QB, Florida St. 1970 89 Carlson, John, TE, Notre Dame 2012-13 65 Carman, Jon, T, Georgia Tech 2002 40 Carpenter, Preston, TE, Arkansas 1966 36 Carpenter, Ron, S, Miami (Ohio) 1993 84 Carroll, Jay, TE, Minnesota 1985 81 Carter, Anthony, WR, Michigan 1985-93 80 Carter, Cris, WR, Ohio State 1990-01 21 Carter, Dale, CB, Tennessee 2001 11 Carter, Jason, WR, Texas A&M 2006 22/37 Carter, Tyrone, S, Minnesota 2000-02 56 Carson, Malcolm, G, Tenn.-Chatt. 1984 44 Casper, Dave, TE, Notre Dame 1983 16 Cassel, Matt, QB, USC 2013-14 48/89 Cercone, Matt, TE, Arizona St. 2000-02 87 Chamberlain, Byron, TE, Wayne St. 2001-02 23/34 Chapman, Doug, RB, Marshall 2000-03 25 Charles, John, S, Purdue 1970 21 Chavous, Corey, S/CB, Vanderbilt 2002-05 16 Chealander, Hal, QB, Mississippi St. 1974 36 Christopherson, Jim, K/LB, Concordia 1962 62 Christy, Jeff, C, Pittsburgh 1993-99 50 Chukwurah, Patrick, LB/DE, Wyoming 2001-02 50/54 Ciurciu, Vinny, LB, Boston College 2007-08 12 Clabo, Neil, P, Tennessee 1975-77 55 Claiborne, Chris, LB, USC 2003-04 33 Clark, Jesse, RB, Arkansas 1989-90

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89 Clark, Kenny, WR, Central Florida 2003-04 71 Clarke, Ken, DT, Syracuse 1989-91 81 Clarke, Leon, WR, USC 1963 92 Clemons, Duane, DE, California 1996-99 26 Cobb, Marvin, S, USC 1980 63 Cobb, Robert, DE, Texas 1984 89 Coffman, Paul, TE, Kansas St. 1988 57 Cole, Audie, LB, North Carolina State 2012-14 92 Cole, Colin, DT, Iowa 2003 37 Coleman, Al, CB, Tennessee St. 1967 91 Coleman, Dan, DE, Murray St. 1987 8 Coleman, Greg, P, Florida A&M 1978-87 99/93 Colinet, Stalin, DE, Boston College 1997-99, ‘01 65 Collins, Calvin, G, Texas A&M 2001 84 Collins, Dwight, WR, Pittsburgh 1984 59 Collins, Fabray, LB, So. Illinois 1987 43 Colter, Jeff, CB, Kansas 1984 63 Conaty, Billy, C, Virginia Tech 2004 20/31 Cook, Chris, CB, Virginia 2010-13 62 Cook, Ryan, T, New Mexico 2006-10 20 Cooks, Kerry, S, Iowa 1998 87 Cooper, Adrian, TE, Oklahoma 1994-95 68 Cooper, Jon, C, Oklahoma 2009-10 50 Cooper, Marquis, LB, Washington 2006 63 Cornish, Frank, C, UCLA 1994 1 Cortez, Jose, K, Oregon State 2003-04 95 Council, Keith, DE, Hampton 1999 55 Cowart, Sam, LB, Florida State 2005 14 Cox, Fred, K, Pittsburgh 1963-77 33 Craig, Roger, RB, Nebraska 1992-93 84 Craig, Steve, TE, Northwestern 1974-78 73 Crawford, Brian, T, Western Oregon 2001 95 Crichton, Scott, DE, Oregon State 2014 52 Crockett, Henri, LB, Florida State 2002-03 87 Crumpler, Carlester, TE, E. Carolina 1999 77 Culpepper, Brad, DT, Florida 1992-93 12/11 Culpepper, Daunte, QB, UCF 1999-05 71 Culpepper, Ed, DT, Alabama 1961 89 Cunningham, Doug, WR, Rice 1979 7 Cunningham, Randall, QB, UNLV 1997-99 67 Cunningham, Rick, T, Texas A&M 1995 15 Cuozzo, Gary, QB, Virginia 1968-71 49 Curtis, Travis, S, West Virginia 1989

71/75 Dafney, Bernard, G, Tennessee 1992-94 84 Dale, Carroll, WR, Virginia Tech 1973 50 Dalton, Antico, LB, Hampton 1999 63 Daniels, Brian, G, Colorado 2007 69 Daniels, LeShun, G, Ohio State 1997 7 Danmeier, Rick, K, Sioux Falls 1977-83 32/25 Darden, Tony, CB, Texas Tech 1998 82 Daugherty, Ron, WR, Northeastern 1987 34 Davis, Brian, CB, Nebraska 1994 71 Davis, Doug, T, Kentucky 1966-72 5 Davis, Greg, K, The Citadel 1997 63 Davis, Isaac, G, Arkansas 1998 86 Davis, John, TE, Emporia St. 2000 17/86 Davis, Nick, WR, Wisconsin 2002-03 58/50 Davis, Rod, LB, Southern Miss. 2004-06 4 Dawson, Dale, K, E. Kentucky 1987 86 Dawson, Rhett, WR, Florida St. 1973 51 Dean, Larry, LB, Valdosta St. 2011-13

24 Dean, Ted, S, Wichita 1964 72 DeGeare, Chris, G, Wake Forest 2010 55 Del Rio, Jack, LB, USC 1992-95 89 Delaney, Jarrod, WR, TCU 1989 85 DeLong, Greg, TE, North Carolina 1995-98 27 Demery, Calvin, WR, Arizona St. 1972 28 Denny, Earl, RB, Missouri 1967-68 86 Denson, Al, WR, Florida A&M 1971 62 Denton, Bob, DE, Pacific 1961-64 25 Derby, Dean, DB, Washington 1961-62 27 Devine, Kevin, CB, California 1999 52 Dick, Jim, LB, North Dakota St. 1987 76 Dickson, Paul, DT, Baylor 1961-70 76 Dill, Scott, T, Memphis 1996-97 25 Dillon, Terry, CB, Montana 1963 12 Dils, Steve, QB, Stanford 1979-84 44 D’Imperio, Ryan, FB, Rutgers 2011 25 Dishman, Cris, CB, Purdue 2000 26 Dixon, Ahmad, S, Baylor 2014 71 Dixon, David, G, Arizona St. 1994-04 56 Doleman, Chris, DE/LB, Pittsburgh 1985-93; 99 84 Donahue, Oscar, WR, San Jose 1962 65 Dorsey, Nat, T, Georgia Tech 2004 21 Doss, Mike, S. Ohio State 2007 42 Dozier, D.J., RB, Penn State 1987-91 48 Dozier, Ukee, CB, Minnesota 2005 62 Ducasse, Vladimir, G, Massachusetts 2014 56 Dugan, Bill, G, Penn State 1984 83 Dugan, Jeff, TE, Maryland 2004-10 57 Dumler, Doug, C, Nebraska 1976-77 59 Dusbabek, Mark, LB, Minnesota 1989-92

64 Early, Michael, G, Norfolk State 2002 39 Echemandu, Adimchinobe, RB, California 2005 1 Edinger, Paul, K, Michigan St. 2005 27 Edwards, Brad, S, South Carolina 1988-89 59 Edwards, Dixon, LB, Michigan St. 1996-98 36 Edwards, Dovonte, CB, N.C. State 2005-06 32 Edwards, Jimmy, RB, NE Louisiana 1979 91 Edwards, Ray, DE, Purdue 2006-10 24 Eilers, Pat, S, Notre Dame 1990-91 11 Eischied, Mike, P, Upper Iowa 1972-74 86 Eley, Clifton, TE, Mississippi St. 1987 81 Eller, Carl, DE, Minnesota 1964-78 8 Elling, Aaron, K, Wyoming 2003-04 40/85 Ellison, Rhett, FB, USC 2012-14 65/73 Elshire, Neil, DE, Oregon 1981-86 47 Emmanuel, Charles, S, W. Virginia 1997 6 Epstein, Hayden, K, Michigan 2002 29 Evans, Charles, RB, Clark 1993-98 26 Evans, David, CB, Cent. Arkansas 1986-87 90 Evans, Fred, DT, Texas St.-San Marcos 2007-13 31 Everett, Eric, CB Texas Tech 1992 32 Exum, Antone, S, Virginia Tech 2014

51 Farber, Hap, LB, Mississippi 1970 59 Farwell, Heath, LB, San Diego St. 2005-10 35 Fason, Ciatrick, RB, Florida 2005-06 54 Faust, Paul, LB, Minnesota 1967 4 Favre, Brett, QB, Southern Mississippi 2009-10 91 Fears, Willie, DT, Northwestern St. 1990 64 Feasel, Grant, T, Abilene Christian 1984-86

42 Felton, Jerome, FB, Furman 2012-14 31 Fenney, Rick, RB, Washington 1987-91 35 Ferguson, Bob, RB, Ohio State 1963 84 Ferguson, Charley, WR, Tennessee St. 1962 89 Ferguson, Robert, WR, Texas A&M 2007-08 11 Fiedler, Jay, QB, Dartmouth 1998 85 Finch, Steve, WR, Elmhurst 1987 72 Fisk, Jason, DT, Stanford 1995-98 29 Fitzgerald, Jamie, CB, Idaho St. 1987 37 Fitzgerald, Mike, CB, Iowa St. 1966-67 85 Flatley, Paul, WR, Northwestern 1963-67 73/95 Floyd, Sharrif, DT, Florida 2013-14 79 Fonoti, Toniu, G, Nebraska 2005 62 Foote, Chris, C, USC 1987-91 86 Ford, Chase, TE, Miami (Fla.) 2013-14 44 Foreman, Chuck, RB, Miami (Fla.) 1973-79 67 Fowler, Melvin, C, Maryland 2005 50 Fowlkes, Dennis, LB, West Virginia 1983-85 37 Frampton, Eric, S, Washington State 2007-11 40 Frankhauser, Tom, S, Purdue 1962-63 37 Frank, Donald, CB, Winston-Salem 1995 12 Freeman, Josh, QB, Kansas State 2013 22 Freeman, Steve, S, Mississippi 1987 12 Frerotte, Gus, QB, Tulsa 2003-04, ‘08 83 Frisch, David, TE, Colorado State 1996 37 Frye, Phil, RB, California Lutheran 1987 27 Fuller, Corey, CB, Florida State 1995-98 29 Fullington, Darrell, S, Miami (Fla.) 1988-90 63 Fusco, Brandon, C/G, Slippery Rock 2011-14

32 Galbreath, Tony, RB, Missouri 1981-83 66 Gallagher, Frank, G, North Carolina 1973 6 Gallery, Jim, K, Minnesota 1990 28 Gallishaw, Laroni, CB, Murray St. 2005 90 Galvin, John, LB, Boston College 1989 16 Gannon, Rich, QB, Delaware 1987-92 2 Garcia, Teddy, K, NE Louisiana 1989 54 Garnett, David, LB, Stanford 1993-94; ‘96 92 Garnett, Winfield, DT, Ohio State 2001 44 Gault, Billy, CB, Texas Christian 1961 78 Gay, William, DE, USC 1988 3 George, Jeff, QB, Illinois 1999 55 George, Ron, LB, Stanford 1997 46/66 Gerak, John, TE/G, Penn St. 1993-96 32 Gerhart, Toby, RB, Stanford 2010-13 56 Gersbach, Carl, LB, West Chester 1971-72 86 Gillespie, Willie, WR, Tenn.-Chattanooga 1987 42 Gilliam, John, WR, South Carolina St. 1972-75 55 Glenn, Jason, LB, Texas A&M 2006 25 Glenn, Vencie, S, Indiana St. 1992-94 82 Glover, Andrew, TE, Grambling 1997-99 94 Goff, Robert, DT, Auburn 1996 73 Goldberg, Adam, G, Wyoming 2004-05 82 Goodridge, Bob, WR, Vanderbilt 1968 68 Goodrum, Charles, G, Florida A&M 1972-78 87/83 Goodwin, Hunter, TE, Texas A&M 1996-98,‘02-03 41 Gordon, Charles, CB, Kansas 2006-08 87 Gray, MarQueis, TE, Minnesota 2014 31 Graham, Scottie, RB, Ohio St. 1993-96 73 Graves, Rory, T, Ohio State 1993 23 Gray, Torrian, S, Virginia Tech 1997-98 50 Grecni, Dick, LB, Ohio 1961

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 37

MINNESOTA VIKING ALUMNI A-Z 32 Green, Robert, RB, William & Mary 1997 25 Greene, Marcellus, CB, Arizona 1984 52 Greenway, Chad, LB, Iowa 2006-14 97 Griffen, Everson, DE, USC 2010-14 23 Griffin, Cedric, CB, Texas 2006-11 24 Griffith, Robert, S, San Diego St. 1994-01 73 Grigsby, Otis, DE, Kentucky 2007-08 27/26 Grim, Bob, WR, Oregon St. 1967-71; ‘76-77 47 Groce, Ron, RB, Macalester 1976 41 Guggemos, Neal, DB, St. Thomas 1986-87 98 Guion, Letroy, DT, Florida State 2008-13 84 Guliford, Eric, WR, Arizona State 1993-94 80 Gustafson, Jim, WR, St. Thomas 1985-90

72 Haayer, Adam, T, Minnesota 2002, ‘04 91/74 Habib, Brian, G, Washington 1988-92 49 Hackbart, Dale, S, Wisconsin 1966-70 90 Haines, John, DT, Texas 1984 28 Haley, Dick, WR, Pittsburgh 1961 55 Hall, Lemanski, LB, Alabama 2000-02 23 Hall, Steven, S, Kentucky 1996 86/28 Hall, Tom, WR, Minnesota 1964-66; 68-69 40 Hall, Windlan, S, Arizona St. 1976-77 61 Hamilton, Wes, G, Tulsa 1976-85 23 Hammonds, Shelly, CB, Penn St. 1995 25 Hampton, Alonzo, CB, Pittsburgh 1990 51 Hanks, Ben, LB, Florida 1996 45 Hannon, Tom, S, Michigan St. 1977-84 55 Hansen, Don, LB, Illinois 1966-67 63 Hanson, Mark, G, Mankato St. 1987 50 Hargrove, Jim, LB, Howard Payne 1967-70 8 Harnish, Chandler, QB, Northern Illinois 2014 36 Harrell, Sam, RB, E. Carolina 1980-82; 87 35 Harris, Bill, RB, Colorado 1969-70 32 Harris, Darryl, RB, Arizona St. 1988 99 Harris, James, DE, Temple 1993-95 52 Harris, Joe, LB, Georgia Tech 1979 44 Harris, John, S, Arizona St. 1985-86 79 Harris, Mike, T, UCLA 2014 58/99Harris, Napoleon, LB, Northwestern2005-06, 08 57 Harris, Paul, LB, USC 1978 90 Harris, Robert, DE, Southern 1992-94 32 Harris, Steve, RB, Northern Iowa 1987 95/91 Harrison, Martin, DE, Washington 1994-96, 99 48 Harrison, Todd, TE, North Carolina St. 1993 78 Hartenstine, Mike, DT, Penn State 1987 86 Hartwig, Keith, WR, Arizona 1977 12 Harvin, Percy, WR, Florida 2009-12 87 Haslerig, Clint, WR, Michigan 1975 88 Hasselbeck, Don, TE, Colorado 1984 89/19 Hatchette, Matthew, WR, Langston 1997-00 37 Hawkins, Mike, CB, Oklahoma 2006 58 Hawkins, Rip, LB, North Carolina 1961-65 44 Hayden, Leo, RB, Ohio State 1971 32 Hayes, Ray, RB, Cent. Oklahoma 1961 90 Hazuga, Jeff, DE, Wisconsin-Stout 2001 56 Henderson, E.J., LB, Maryland 2003-11 50 Henderson, Erin, LB, Maryland 2008-13 80 Henderson, John, WR, Michigan 1968-72 30 Henderson, Keith, RB, Georgia 1992 24 Henderson, Wymon, CB, UNLV 1987-88 60 Hernandez, Matt, T, Purdue 1984 67/64 Herrera, Anthony, G, Tennessee 2004-11 58 Herron, David, LB, Michigan State 2007-08 79 Hicks, Artis, G, Memphis 2006-09 43 Hicks, Maurice, RB, North Carolina A&T 2008 58 Hilgenberg, Wally, LB, Iowa 1968-79

43 Hill, Gary, S, USC 1965 10 Hill, King, P-QB, Rice 1968 12/13 Hill, Shaun, QB, Maryland 2002-05 89 Hillary, Ira, WR, South Carolina 1990 82 Hilton, Carl, TE, Houston 1986-89 85 Hilton, John, TE, Richmond 1970 98 Hinkle, George, DT, Arizona 1992 75/78 Hinton, Chris, T, Northwestern 1994-95 37 Hitchcock, Jimmy, CB, North Carolina 1998-99 18 Hoag, Ryan, WR, Gustavus Adolphus 2004 44 Hoard, Leroy, RB, Michigan 1996-99 54 Hodges, Gerald, LB, Penn State 2013-14 13 Holcomb, Kelly, QB, Middle Tenn. St. 2007 93 Holland, Darius, DT, Colorado 2002 85 Holland, John, WR, Tennessee St. 1974 75 Holloway, Randy, DE, Pittsburgh 1978-84 51 Holmberg, Rob, LB, Penn State 1999 54 Holmes, Bruce, LB, Minnesota 1993 30 Holt, Issiac, CB, Alcorn State 1985-89 2 Horan, Mike, P, Long Beach St. 1986 51 Hough, Jim, G, Utah State 1978-86 55 Houston, Bobby, LB, North Carolina St. 1998 99 Hovan, Chris, DT, Boston College 2000-04 24 Howard, Bryan, S, Tennessee St. 1982 51/99 Howard, David, LB, Long Beach St. 1985-89 91 Howard, Willie, DL, Stanford 2001-02 92 Howell, Leroy, DT, Appalachian St. 1986 82 Howry, Keenan, WR, Oregon 2003-05 56/72 Huffman, David, G/T, Notre Dame1979-83; 85-90 83 Hultz, Don, DE, Southern Miss. 1963 25/31 Hunter, Will, S, Syracuse 2005-06 67 Humphrey, Jay, T, Texas 1999 76 Hutchinson, Steve, G, Michigan 2006-11 65 Huth, Gary, G, Wake Forest 1961-63

84 Iglesias, Juaquin, WR, Oklahoma 2010 4 Igwebuike, Donald, K, Clemson 1990 86 Ingram, Darryl, TE, California 1989 22 Irvin, Ken, CB/S, Memphis 2003-05 76 Irwin, Tim, T, Tennessee 1981-93 82 Ismail, Qadry, WR, Syracuse 1993-96 37 Israel, Ron, DB, Notre Dame 2003

25 Jackson, Alfred, CB, San Diego St. 1995-96 89 Jackson, Harold, WR, Colorado 1982 76 Jackson, Joe, DT, New Mexico St. 1977 7 Jackson, Tarvaris, QB, Alabama St. 2006-10 83 Jacquet, Nate, WR, San Diego St. 2000-01 89/13 James, Cedric, WR, TCU 2002 47 James, Dick, RB, Oregon 1965 99 James, Erasmus, DE, Wisconsin 2005-07 24 Jefferson, A.J., CB, Fresno State 2012-13 52 Jenke, Noel, LB, Minnesota 1971 51 Jenkins, Carlos, LB, Michigan St. 1991-94 28 Jenkins, Izel, CB, North Carolina St. 1993 84 Jenkins, Michael, WR, Ohio State 2011-12 15 Jennings, Greg, WR, Western Michigan 2013-14 57 Jobko, Bill, LB, Ohio State 1963-65 81 Johnson, Bethel, WR, Texas A&M 2006 14 Johnson, Brad, QB, Florida St. 1992-98, 2005-06 12 Johnson, Charles, WR, Grand Valley State 2014 65 Johnson, Charlie, NT, Colorado 1982-84 74 Johnson, Charlie, G/T, Oklahoma St. 2011-14 75 Johnson, Chase, T, Wyoming 2007 35 Johnson, Chris, S, San Diego St. 1996 52 Johnson, Dennis, LB, USC 1980-85

4 Johnson, Eddie, P, Idaho State 2003 41 Johnson, Gene, S, Cincinnati 1961 92 Johnson, George, DE, Rutgers 2012-13 53 Johnson, Henry, LB, Georgia Tech 1980-83 11 Johnson, Jaymar, WR, Jackson St. 2009-10 89 Johnson, Joe, WR, Notre Dame 1992 22 Johnson, Ken, S, Florida A&M 1989-90 12 Johnson, Lee, P, BYU 2001 72 Johnson, Marcus, T, Mississippi 2005-08 55 Johnson, Olrick, LB, Florida A&M 1999 48 Johnson, Sammy, RB, North Carolina 1976-78 97 Johnson, Spencer, DT, Auburn 2004-07 92 Johnson, Tom, DT, Southern Mississippi 2014 25 Johnson, Tyrell, S, Arkansas State 2008-11 51 Johnstone, Lance, DE, Temple 2001-05 15 Jones, Chris, WR, Jackson St. 2005 26 Jones, Clinton, RB, Michigan St. 1967-72 84 Jones, Hassan, WR, Florida St. 1986-92 21 Jones, Henry, S, Illinois 2001 82 Jones, Mike A., WR, Tennessee St. 1983-85 89 Jones, Mike L., TE, Texas A&M 1990-91 31 Jones, Rushen, CB, Vanderbilt 2003-04 32 Jones, Shawn, S, Georgia Tech 1993 69 Jones, Wayne, T, Utah 1987 85/43/83/89 Jordan, Andrew, TE, Western Carolina 1994-97; ‘99-01 22 Jordan, Jeff, S, Tulsa 1965-67 83 Jordan, Steve, TE, Brown 1982-94 98 Joseph, Linval, DT, East Carolina 2014 33 Josey, Henry, RB, Missouri 2014 83 Joyce, Don, DE, Tulane 1961

51 Kaddu, Josh, LB, Oregon 2014 75 Kalil, Matt, T, USC 2012-14 69 Kalis, Todd, G, Arizona State 1988-93 11 Kapp, Joe, QB, California 1967-69 3 Karlis, Rich, K, Cincinnati 1989 29 Kassulke, Karl, DB, Drake 1963-72 48 Katula, Matt, LS, Wisconsin 2011 39 Kellar, Mark, RB, No. Illinois 1976-78 25 Kelly, Eric, CB, Kentucky 2001-03 61 Kelly, Lewis, T/G, South Carolina St. 2001-03 73 Kennedy, Jimmy, DT, Penn State 2008-10 83 Kent, Joey, WR, Tennessee 2000 43 Keys, Brady, CB, Colorado St. 1967 80 Kidd, Keith, WR, Arkansas 1987 95 Killings, Cedric, DT, Carson-Newman 2002-03 38 King, Caleb, RB, Georgia 2011 24 King, Phil, RB, Vanderbilt 1965-66 89 Kingsriter, Doug, TE, Minnesota 1973-75 36 Kirby, John, LB, Nebraska 1964-68 52 Kirksey, William, LB, Southern Miss. 1990 40/85 Kleinsasser, Jim, TE/FB, No. Dakota 1999-11 4/5 Kluwe, Chris, P, UCLA 2005-12 25 Knoff, Kurt, S, Kansas 1979-82 68 Koch, Greg, G, Arkansas 1987 96 Kolodziej, Ross, Wisconsin 2006 26 Kosens, Terry, S, Hofstra 1963 89 Kramer, Kent, TE, Minnesota 1969-70 9 Kramer, Tommy, QB, Rice 1977-89 22 Krause, Paul, S, Iowa 1968-79 78 Kropog, Troy, G, Tulane 2012 5 Krueger, Todd, QB, Northern Michigan 1987

59 Lacey, Bob, C, North Carolina 1964 26 Lacey, Jacob, CB, Oklahoma State 2013

63 Lacina, Corbin, G, Augustana 1999-02 21 Lamson, Chuck, S, Wyoming 1962-63 58 Langer, Jim, C, South Dakota St. 1980-81 52 Lapham, Bill, C, Iowa 1961 77 Larsen, Gary, DT, Concordia 1965-74 82 Lash, Jim, WR, Northwestern 1973-76 65 Lawson, Steve, G, Kansas 1973-75 51 Leber, Ben, LB, Kansas State 2006-10 80 LeCount, Terry, WR, Florida 1979-83; ‘87 32 Lee, Amp, RB, Florida State 1994-96 19 Lee, Bob, QB/P, Pacific 1969-72; ‘75-78 39 Lee, Carl, CB, Marshall 1983-93 57 Leman, J, LB, Illinois 2009 59 Leo, Jim, DE, Cincinnati 1961-62 31 Lester, Darrell, RB, McNeese St. 1964 49 Lewis, Dave, RB, Northern Iowa 1987 17 Lewis, Greg, WR, Illinois 2009-10 87 Lewis, Leo, WR, Missouri 1981-91 43 Liddiard, Brody, TE/LS, Colorado 2001-03 73 Linden, Errol, T, Houston 1962-65 61/62 Lindsay, Everett, OL, Mississippi 1993-98; 2001-03 21 Lindsey, Jim, RB, Arkansas 1966-72 48 Line, Zach, FB, SMU 2013-14 76 Lingenfelter, Bob, T, Nebraska 1978 55 Livingston, Cliff, LB, UCLA 1962 13 Livingston, Mike, QB, SMU 1980 76 Liwienski, Chris, T/G, Indiana 1998-05 71 Loadholt, Phil, T, Oklahoma 2009-14 12/18 Locke, Jeff, P, UCLA 2013-14 46 Loeffler, Cullen, LS, Texas 2004-14 38 Louallen, Fletcher, S, Livingston 1987 8 Longwell, Ryan, K, California 2006-11 75/73Love, DeMarcus, OT, Arkansas 2011-12 23 Love, Terry, S, Murray State 1987 63 Lowdermilk, Kirk, C, Ohio State 1985-92 25 Lowe, Omare, S, Washington 2004 57 Luce, Derrel, LB, Baylor 1979-80 75 Lurtsema, Bob, DE, West. Michigan 1971-76 27 Lush, Mike, S, East Stroudsburg 1986 35 Lynch, James, FB, Maryland 2003 96 Lyon, Billy, DL, Marshall 2003

71 MacDonald, Mark, G, Boston Coll. 1985-88 46 Mackbee, Earsell, CB, Utah St. 1965-69 69 Malano, Mike, G, San Diego St. 2002 75 Manley, James, DT, Vanderbilt 1996-97 17 Mann, Maurice, WR, Washington 2006 4 Manning, Archie, QB, Mississippi 1983-84 91 Manusky, Greg, LB, Colgate 1991-93 49 Marinaro, Ed, RB, Cornell 1972-75 70 Marshall, Jim, DE, Ohio State 1961-79 48 Marshall, Larry, S, Maryland 1974 55 Martin, Amos, LB, Louisville 1972-76 89 Martin, Billy, TE, Georgia Tech 1968 56/94/98/57 Martin, Chris, LB, Auburn 1984-88 79 Martin, Doug, DE, Washington 1980-89 90 Martin, Steve, DT, Missouri 2004 20 Mason, Tommy, RB, Tulane 1961-66 66 Maurer, Andy, G, Oregon 1974-75 56 Mauti, Michael, LB, Penn State 2013-14 5 May, Chad, QB, Kansas State 1995 88 May, Marc, TE, Purdue 1987 35 Mayberry, Doug, RB, Utah St. 1961-62 23 Mayes, Mike, CB, LSU 1991 53 Mays, Kivuusama, LB, North Carolina 1998-99 73 Mays, Stafford, DT, Washington 1987-88

31/21 McCauley, Marcus, CB, Fresno St. 2007-08 33 McClanahan, Brent, RB, Arizona St. 1973-80 96 McClendon, Skip, DE, Arizona St. 1992 15 McCormick, John, QB/P, Massachusetts 1962 84/80 McCullum, Sam, WR, Montana St. 1974-75; 82-83 74 McCurry, Mike, G, Indiana 1987 58 McDaniel, Ed, LB, Clemson 1992-01 64 McDaniel, Randall, G, Arizona St. 1988-99 88 McDole, Mardye, WR, Mississippi St. 1981-83 34 McDonald, Ramos, CB, New Mexico 1998-99 39 McElhenny, Hugh, RB, Washington 1961-62 60 McElroy, Reggie, T, West Texas St. 1994 55 McGill, Mike, LB, Notre Dame 1968-70 37 McGriggs, Lamar, S, West. Illinois 1993-94 86 McKeever, Marlin, TE, USC 1967 58 McKenzie, Tyrone, LB, South Florida 2012 74 McKinnie, Bryant, T, Miami (Fla.) 2002-10 31 McKinnon, Jerick, RB, Georgia Southern 2014 9 McMahon, Jim, QB, BYU 1993 26 McMillian, Audray, CB, Houston 1989-93 12 McMullen, Billy, WR, Virginia 2006 5 McNabb, Donovan, QB, Syracuse 2011 12 McNeil, Tom, P, Stephen F. Austin 1970 54 McNeill, Fred, LB, UCLA 1974-85 60 McQuaid, Dan, T, UNLV 1988 32 McWatters, Bill, RB, North Texas 1964 87 McWilliams, Johnny, TE, USC 2000 53 Meamber, Tim, LB, Washington 1985 18 Mercer, Mike, K, Arizona St. 1961-62 57 Merriweather, Mike, LB, Pacific 1989-92 56 Meylan, Wayne, LB, Nebraska 1970 98 Micech, Phil, DE, Wis.-Platteville 1987 21 Michel, Tom, RB, East Carolina 1964 84 Middleton, Dave, WR, Auburn 1961 75 Millard, Keith, DT, Washington St. 1985-91 55/59 Miller, Corey, LB, South Carolina 1999 87 Miller, Kevin, WR, Louisville 1978-80 5 Miller, Larry, QB, Northern Iowa 1987 35 Miller, Robert, RB, Kansas 1975-80 14 Miller, Romaro, QB, Mississippi 2001 64 Million, Ted, G, Duke 1987 45 Mills, Garrett, TE, Tulsa 2007-09 45 Mills, John Henry, FB, Wake Forest 1999 21 Mincy, Charles, S, Washington 1995 92 Mitchell, Jayme, DE, Mississippi 2006-10 55 Mitchell, Marvin, LB, Tennessee 2012-13 68 Mitchell, Mel, G, Tennessee St. 1980 71 Mitrione, Matt, DT, Purdue 2005 79 Mixon, Kenny, DE, LSU 2002-04 90 Molden, Fred, DT, Jackson State 1987 94 Monty, Pete, LB, Wisconsin 2001 1 Moon, Warren, QB, Washington 1994-96 45 Moore, Leonard, RB, Jackson St. 1987 36 Moore, Manfred, RB, USC 1977 30 Moore, Mewelde, RB, Tulane 2004-07 31 Morgan, Don, S, Nevada-Reno 1999-01 35 Morrell, Kyle, S, BYU 1985-86 40 Morris, Jack, CB, Oregon 1961 68 Morris, Mike, C, NE Missouri St. 1991-99 33 Morrow, Harold, RB, Auburn 1996-02 96 Mosley, C.J., Missouri 2005 79 Moss, Eric, OL, Ohio State 1997 84 Moss, Randy, WR, Marshall 1998-04, ‘10 24 Mostardi, Rich, S, Kent State 1961 86 Mularkey, Mike, TE, Florida 1983-88 77 Mullaney, Mark, DE, Colorado St. 1975-87 24 Munnerlyn, Captain, CB, South Carolina 2014

31 Munsey, Nelson, CB, Wyoming 1978 88 Murphy, Fred, TE, Georgia Tech 1961 68 Murphy, Kevin, T, Harvard 2013 19 Murphy, Yo, WR, Idaho 1999 3 Murray, Eddie, K, Tulane 1997 74 Myers, Frank, T, Texas A&M 1978-80

51/59 Najarian, Pete, LB, Minnesota 1987 15 Nance, Martin, WR, Miami (OH) 2006 59 Nattiel, Mike, LB, Florida 2003-04 28 Ned, Larry, RB, San Diego St. 2003-04 17 Nelson, Ben, WR, Saint Cloud St. 2004 1 Nelson, Chuck, K, Washington 1986-88 20 Nelson, Darrin, RB, Stanford 1982-89;91-92 32 Nelson, David, RB, Heidelberg 1984 56 Nelson, Jim, LB, Penn St. 2000-02 38 Nelson, Rhett, CB, Colorado St. 2003-04 53 Newbill, Richard, LB, Miami (Fla.) 1990 52 Newman, Keith, LB, North Carolina 2004-05 86 Newman, Pat, WR, Utah State 1990 18 Newsome, Harry, P, Wake Forest 1990-93 96 Newton, Tim, DT, Florida 1985-89 71 Niehaus, Steve, DT, Notre Dame 1979 79 Nix, Roosevelt, DT, Cental St. 1994 99 Noga, Al, DE, Hawaii 1988-92 49 Nord, Keith, S, St. Cloud St. 1979-85 97 Norman, Tony, DE, Iowa State 1987 90 Northern, Gabe, DE/LB, LSU 2000 85 Novoselsky, Brent, TE, Pennsylvania 1989-94

89 Obee, Terry, WR, Oregon 1991 74 O’Brien, Dave, G, Boston Coll. 1963-64 96 O’Neal, Andre, LB, Marshall 2001 7 O’Sullivan, J.T., QB, Cal-Davis 2005 24 Offord, Willie, S, South Carolina 2002-05 55 Onatolu, Kenny, LB, Nebraska-Omaha 2009-11 69 Ori, Frank, G, Northern Iowa 1987 31 Osborne, Clancy, LB, Arizona St. 1961-62 41 Osborn, Dave, RB, North Dakota 1965-75 89/49/45 Owens, Richard, TE, Louisville 2004-06

88 Page, Alan, DT, Notre Dame 1967-78 24 Page, Jarrad, S, UCLA 2011 22 Palmer, David, WR/RB, Alabama 1994-00 51 Palmer, Mitch, LS, Colorado St. 2000 27 Parker, Anthony, CB, Arizona St. 1992-94 81 Parks, Rickey, WR, Ark.-Pine Bluff 1987 40 Paschal, Doug, RB, North Carolina 1980-81 84 Patterson, Cordarrelle, WR, Tennessee 2013-14 79 Patton, Jerry, DT, Nebraska 1971 95 Paup, Bryce, DE, Northern Iowa 2000 41 Paymah, Karl, CB, Washington St. 2009 31 Payton, Eddie, RB, Jackson St. 1980-82 24 Pearson, Jayice, S, Washington 1993 66 Pentecost, John, G, UCLA 1967 68 Perreault, Pete, G, Long Beach St. 1971 31 Perry, Jason, S, North Carolina St. 2002 22 Pesonen, Dick, CB, Minn.-Duluth 1961 28 Peterson, Adrian, RB, Oklahoma 2007-14 66 Peterson, Ken, C, Utah 1961 28 Phillips, Anthony, CB, Texas A&M-Kingsville1998 30 Phillips, Bobby, RB, Virginia Union 1995 82 Phillips, Jim, WR, Auburn 1965-67 75/79/91 Phillips, Joe, DT, SMU 1986; ‘99 22 Pinner, Artose, RB, Kentucky 2006 63 Ploeger, Kurt, DT, Gustavus Adolphus 1987

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38 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

MINNESOTA VIKING ALUMNI A-Z 86 Poage, Ray, TE, Texas 1963 29 Poltl, Randy, S, Stanford 1974 7 Ponder, Christian, QB, Florida St. 2011-14 52 Porter, Ron, LB, Idaho 1973 24 Powell, Art, WR, San Jose St. 1968 83 Powers, John, TE, Notre Dame 1966 27 Prater, Shaun, CB, Iowa 2013-14 30 Prentice, Travis, RB, Miami (Ohio) 2001 79 Prestel, Jim, DT, Idaho 1961-65 39 Price, Jabari, CB, North Carolina 2014 40 Prior, Anthony, CB, Washington St. 1996-97 28 Provost, Ted, CB, Ohio State 1970 66 Pyle, Palmer, G, Michigan St. 1964

92 Quinn, Kelly, LB, Michigan St. 1987

64 Rabold, Mike, G, Indiana 1961-62 60 Radovich, Drew, T, USC 2008 9 Ramsey, Patrick, QB, Tulane 2010 93 Randle, John, DT, Texas A&I 1990-00 34 Randolph, Al, CB, Iowa 1973 28 Rashad, Ahmad, WR, Oregon 1976-82 52 Rasmussen, Randy, G, Minnesota 1987-89 30/41 Raymond, Mistral, S, South Florida 2011-14 11 Reaves, John, QB, Florida 1979 22 Redwine, Jarvis, RB, Nebraska 1981-83 27 Reed, Bob, RB, Pacific 1962-63 91 Reed, D’Aundre, DE, Arizona 2011-12 86 Reed, Jake, WR, Grambling 1991-99,‘01 32 Reed, Oscar, RB, Colorado St. 1968-74 73 Rehder, Tom, G, Notre Dame 1992 89 Reichow, Jerry, WR, Iowa 1961-64 83/89 Reisner, Allen, TE, Iowa 2011-12 56 Reilly, Mike, LB, Iowa 1969 67 Remmers, Mike, T, Oregon State 2013 14 Renfroe, Gilbert, QB, Tennessee St. 1990 19 Rentzel, Lance, WR, Oklahoma 1965-66 7 Reveiz, Fuad, K, Tennessee 1990-95 82 Reynaud, Darius, WR, West Virginia 2008-09 29 Rhodes, Xavier, CB, Florida State 2013-14 88 Rhymes, Buster, WR, Oklahoma 1985-87 1 Ricardo, Benny, K, San Diego St. 1983 36 Rice, Allen, RB, Baylor 1984-90 18 Rice, Sidney, WR, South Carolina 2007-10 89 Richardson, Greg, WR, Alabama 1987-88 5 Richardson, Kyle, P, Arkansas St. 2002 49 Richardson, Tony, FB, Auburn 2006-07 78 Riley, Steve, T, USC 1974-84 98 Robbins, Fred, DT, Wake Forest 2000-03 95 Robinson, Gerald, DE, Auburn 1986-87 21 Robinson, Josh, CB, Central Florida 2012-14 18 Robinson, Koren, WR, N.C. State 2005 87 Robinson, Marcus, WR, So. Carolina 2004-06 96 Robison, Brian, DE, Texas 2007-14

60 Rodenhauser, Mark, C, Illinois St. 1989 29 Rogers, Chris, CB, Howard 1999 58 Rogers, Nick, LB, Georgia Tech 2002-03 76 Roller, Dave, DT, Kentucky 1979-80 47 Rose, George, CB, Auburn 1964-66 2/18 Rosenfels, Sage, QB, Iowa St. 2009, ‘11 75 Rosenthal, Mike, T, Notre Dame 2003-06 28 Rosnagle, Ted, S, Portland St. 1985, 87 37 Ross, Derek, CB, Ohio St. 2004 68 Rouse, Curtis, G, Tenn.-Chattanooga 1982-86 89 Rowe, Ray, TE, San Diego State 1994 47 Rowland, Justin, CB, Tex. Christian 1961 54 Rubke, Karl, LB, USC 1961 57 Rudd, Dwayne, LB, Alabama 1997-00 82 Rudolph, Kyle, TE, Notre Dame 2011-14 65 Ruether, Mike, C, Texas 1994 75 Russ, Pat, DT, Purdue 1963 27 Russell, Brian, S, San Diego St. 2002-04 48 Rutland, Reggie, CB, Georgia Tech 1987-92

12 Salisbury, Sean, QB, USC 1990-94 72 Sams, Ron, C, Pittsburgh 1984 89 Sanders, Ken, DE, Howard Payne 1980-81 33 Sanford, Jamarca, S, Mississippi 2009-14 22 Sapp, Benny, CB, Northern Iowa 2008-09, ‘11 78 Sapp, Bob, G, Washington 1997-98 59 Sauer, Craig, LB, Minnesota 2000 97 Sawyer, Talance, DE, UNLV 1999-03 4 Saxon, Mike, P, San Diego St. 1994-95 78 Scardina, John, T, Lincoln 1987 89 Schenk, Ed, TE, Central Florida 1987 68 Schmidt, Roy, G, Long Beach St. 1971 54 Schmitz, Bob, LB, Montana 1966 85 Schnelker, Bob, TE, Bowling Green 1961 60 Schreiber, Adam, C, Texas 1990-93 53 Schuh, Jeff, LB, Minnesota 1986 76 Schwartz, Geoff, G, Oregon 2012 41 Scott, Carey, CB, Kentucky St. 2002 98 Scott, Darrion, DE, Ohio St. 2004-07 50 Scott, Randy, LB, Alabama 1987 38 Scott, Todd, S, SW Louisiana 1991-94 13 Scribner, Bucky, P, Kansas 1987-89 60 Selesky, Ron, C, North Central 1987 34 Sendejo, Andrew, S, Rice 2011-14 57 Sendlein, Robin, LB, Texas 1981-84 81 Senser, Joe, TE, West Chester St. 1979-84 29 Serwanga, Wasswa, CB, UCLA 2000-01 45 Sharockman, Ed, CB, Pittsburgh 1962-72 42 Sharper, Darren, S, William & Mary 2005-08 14 Shaw, George, QB, Oregon 1961 25 Shaw, Terrance, CB, S.F. Austin 2004 73 Shay, Jerry, DT, Purdue 1966-67 59 Sheppard, Ashley, LB, Clemson 1993-95 29 Sheppard, Lito, CB, Florida 2010 35 Sherels, Marcus, CB, Minnesota 2010-14

43 Sherman, Will, WR, St. Mary’s 1961 81 Shiancoe, Visanthe, TE, Morgan St. 2007-11 77 Shields, Lebron, DE, Tennessee 1961 82/86 Shuler, Mickey, TE, Penn State 2010-11 50 Siemon, Jeff, LB, Stanford 1972-82 69 Simkus, Arnold, DT, Michigan 1967 75 Simpson, Howard, T, Auburn 1964 81 Simpson, Jerome, WR, Coastal Carolina 2012-14 57 Sims, William, LB, SW Louisiana 1994 9 Sisson, Scott, K, Georgia Tech 1996 35 Slaton, Mark, S, South Dakota 1987 74 Smiley, Larry, DE, Texas So. 1973 30 Smith, Cedric, RB, Florida 1990 25 Smith, Daryl, CB, North Alabama 1989 24 Smith, Dwight, S, Akron 2006-07 95/92 Smith, Fernando, DE, Jackson St. 1994-97, 00 87 Smith, Gordon, TE, Missouri 1961-65 91 Smith, Greg, DT, Kansas 1984 22 Smith, Harrison, S, Notre Dame 2012-14 43 Smith, Jim, RB, Elon 1987 90 Smith, Khreem, DE, Oklahoma St. 2006 79 Smith, Lyman, DT, Duke 1978 32 Smith, Onterrio, RB, Oregon 2003-04 57 Smith, Raonall, LB, Washington St. 2002-05 26/20 Smith, Robert, RB, Ohio St. 1993-00 74 Smith, Robert, DE, Grambling 1985 47 Smith, Rod, CB, Notre Dame 1996 83 Smith, Rodney, WR, Florida State 2013-14 74 Smith, Steve, DE, Michigan 1968-70 40 Smith, Wayne, CB, Purdue 1987 27/21 Smoot, Fred, CB, Mississippi St. 2005-06 16 Snead, Norm, QB, Wake Forest 1971 44 Snider, Matt, FB, Richmond 2001 69 Solomon, Ariel, G, Colorado 1996 54 Solomon, Jesse, LB, Florida St. 1986-89 31 Spencer, Willie, RB, no college 1976 44/45 Stackhouse, Charles, FB, Mississippi 2003 34 Starks, Tim, CB, Kent State 1987 82 Steele, Robert, WR, No. Alabama 1979 26 Steeples, Robert, CB, Memphis 2013 52 Stein, Bob, LB, Minnesota 1975 3 Stenerud, Jan, K, Montana St. 1984-85 74 Stensrud, Mike, DT, Iowa State 1986 73 Stepanek, Joe, DT, Minnesota 1987 93 Stephen, Shamar, DT, Connecticut 2014 95 Stephens, Mac, LB, Minnesota 1991 73 Steussie, Todd, T, California 1994-00 28 Stewart, James, RB, Miami (Fla.) 1995 95 Stewart, Mark, LB, Washington 1983-84 27 Stills, Ken, S, Wisconsin 1990 82 Stonebreaker, Steve, LB/TE, Detroit 1962-63 94 Strauthers, Thomas, DE, Jackson St. 1989-91 53 Strickland, Fred, LB, Purdue 1993 77 Stringer, Korey, T, Ohio State 1995-00 55 Studwell, Scott, LB, Illinois 1977-90

65 Sullivan, John, C, Notre Dame 2008-14 26 Sumner, Charlie, CB, Wm. & Mary 1961-62 64 Sunde, Milt, G, Minnesota 1964-74 69 Sutherland, Doug, DT, Superior St. 1971-81 72 Sutton, Archie, T, Illinois 1965-67 94 Sverchek, Paul, DT, Cal-Poly SLO 1984 52 Swain, Bill, LB, Oregon 1964 29 Swain, John, CB, Miami 1981-84 67 Swilley, Dennis, C, Texas A&M 1977-83; 85-87

38 Tahi, Naufahu, FB, BYU 2006-10 55 Talley, Darryl, LB, West Virginia 1996 44 Tapeh, Thomas, FB, Minnesota 2008 10 Tarkenton, Fran, QB, Georgia 1961-66; 72-78 33 Tate, Ben, RB, Auburn 2014 28/83 Tate, Robert, CB/WR, Cincinnati 1997-01 33 Tatman, Pete, RB, Nebraska 1967 66 Tausch, Terry, G, Texas 1982-88 29 Taylor, Chester, RB, Toledo 2006-09 90 Taylor, Eric, DE, Memphis 2005 89 Taylor, Travis, WR, Florida 2005-06 37 Teal, Willie, CB, LSU 1980-86 67 Teeter, Mike, DT, Michigan 1991 46 Tennell, Derek, TE, UCLA 1992-93 27 Thibodeaux, Keith, CB, Northwestern St. 1999-01 19 Thielen, Adam, WR, Minnesota State 2014 35 Thomas, Andre, RB, Mississippi 1987 51 Thomas, Broderick, LB, Nebraska 1995 54/55 Thomas, Dontarrious, LB, Auburn 2004-08 97 Thomas, Henry, DT, LSU 1987-94 42/43 Thomas, Orlando, S, SW Louisiana 1995-01 94 Thornton, John, DT, Cincinnati 1993 87/83 Tice, Mike, TE, Maryland 1992-93; 95 74 Tilleman, Mike, DT, Montana 1966 53 Tingelhoff, Mick, C, Nebraska 1962-78 51 Tobey, Dave, LB, Oregon 1966-67 29 Todman, Jordan, RB, Connecticut 2011 13 Torretta, Gino, QB, Miami 1993 94 Trattou, Justin, DE, Florida 2013-14 33 Triplett, Mel, RB, Toledo 1961-62 32 Truelove, Tony, RB, Livingston 1987 89 Truitt, Olanda, WR, Mississippi St. 1993 98/95 Tuaolo, Esera, DT, Oregon St. 1992-96 38 Tucker, Bob, TE, Bloomsburg St. 1977-80 27 Turner, John, S, Miami 1978-83;85;87 24 Turner, Maurice, RB, Utah St. 1984-85 61 Turner, Mike, T, Louisiana St. 1987

95 Udeze, Kenechi, DE, USC 2004-08 53 Ulmer, Artie, LB, Valdosta St. 1997

11/15 VanderKelen, Ron, QB, Wisconsin 1963-67 37 Vanhorse, Sean, CB, Howard 1996

25 Vargo, Larry, S, Detroit 1964-65 69 Vaughn, Ruben, DT, Colorado 1984 71 Vella, John, T, USC 1980 63 Vellone, Jim, G, USC 1966-70 83 Voigt, Stu, TE, Wisconsin 1970-80

88 Waddy, Bill, WR, Colorado 1984 19 Wade, Bobby, WR, Arizona 2007-08 31 Wagoner, Dan, S, Kansas 1984 54 Waiters, Van, LB, Indiana 1992 39 Walden, Bobby, P, Georgia 1964-67 49 Walker, Adam, RB, Carthage 1987 26 Walker, Denard, CB, LSU 2003 41 Walker, Frank, CB, Tuskegee 2010 34 Walker, Herschel, RB, Georgia 1989-91 6 Walker, Jay, QB, Howard 1996-97 93 Walker, Jimmy, DT, Arkansas 1987 25 Wallace, Jackie, CB, Arizona 1973-74 3 Walsh, Blair, K, Georgia 2012-14 81 Walsh, Chris, WR, Stanford 1994-02 82 Walters, Troy, WR, Stanford 2000-01 72 Ward, John, G/DT, Oklahoma St. 1970-75 59 Warwick, Lonnie, LB, Tenn. Tech 1965-72 20 Washington, Dewayne, CB, N.C. State 1994-97 84 Washington, Gene, WR, Michigan St. 1967-72 80 Washington, Harry, WR, Colorado St. 1978 96 Washington, Keith, DE, UNLV 1995 58 Watts, Brandon, LB, Georgia Tech 2014 69/73 Webb, J’Marcus, T, West Texas A&M 2013-14 14 Webb, Joe, QB/WR, UAB 2010-13 68 Webster, Kevin, C, Northern Iowa 1987 32 Welborne, Tripp, S, Michigan 1992 66 Welch, Thomas, T, Vanderbilt 2010 15 Wells, Mike, QB, Illinois 1973-74 72 Wentworth, Austin, G, Fresno State 2014 40 West, Charlie, S, Texas-El Paso 1968-73 35 West, Ronnie, WR, Pittsburgh St. 1992 92 Westbrooks, David, DE, Howard 1990 37 Wheeler, Leonard, CB, Troy St. 1997 82 Whitaker, Danta, TE, Miss. Valley St. 1992 27 Whitaker, Ronyell, CB, Virginia Tech 2006-07 62 White, Brad, DT, Tennessee 1987 62 White, Ed, G, California 1969-77 72 White, James, DT, Oklahoma St. 1976-83 97 White, Jose, DT, Howard 1995 85 White, Sammy, WR, Grambling 1976-86 65 Whittle, Jason, C, SW Missouri St. 2006 85 Wiggins, Jermaine, TE, Georgia 2004-06 41 Wilcots, Solomon, S, Colorado 1991 94 Wiley, Chuck, DE, LSU 2002-04 82 Williams, A.D., WR, Pacific 1961 98 Williams, Ben, DE, Minnesota 1998 29 Williams, Brian, CB, North Carolina St. 2002-05 23 Williams, Jeff, RB, Oklahoma St. 1966 58 Williams, Jimmy, LB, Nebraska 1990-91

93 Williams, Kevin, DT, Oklahoma St. 2003-13 20 Williams, Madieu, S, Maryland 2008-10 21/20 Williams, Moe, RB, Kentucky 1996-00,‘02-05 94 Williams, Pat, DT, Texas A&M 2005-10 25 Williams, Tank, S, Stanford 2006-07 94 Williams, Tony, DT, Memphis 1997-00 44 Williams, Walt, CB, New Mexico St. 1981-82 19/82 Williamson, Troy, WR, So. Carolina 2005-07 80 Willis, Leonard, WR, Ohio State 1976 59/54 Wilson, Antonio, LB, TX A&M-Comm. 2000-02 27 Wilson, Brett, RB, Illinois 1987 24 Wilson, David, S, California 1992 24 Wilson, Tom, RB, no college 1963 11 Wilson, Wade, QB, East Texas St. 1981-91 45 Wilson, Wayne, RB, Shepherd 1986 26 Winfield, Antoine, CB, Ohio St. 2004-12 36 Winfrey, Carl, LB, Wisconsin 1971 60 Winston, Roy, LB, LSU 1962-76 29 Wise, Phil, S, Nebraska-Omaha 1977-79 79 Wisne, Jerry, T, Notre Dame 2001 60 Withrow, Cory, C, Washington St. 1999-05 44 Wofford, James, RB, UNLV 2002 73 Wolfley, Craig, G, Syracuse 1990-91 33 Womack, Jeff, RB, Memphis St. 1987 52 Wong, Kailee, LB, Stanford 1998-01 5 Wood, Mike, P, Missouri State 1978 99 Wootton, Corey, DE, Northwestern 2014 23 Word, Barry, RB, Virginia 1993 95 Worthen, Shawn, DT, TCU 2001 59 Wright, Fearon, LB, Rhode Island 2001 22 Wright, Felix, S, Drake 1991-92 17 Wright, Jarius, WR, Arkansas 2012-14 23 Wright, Jeff, S, Minnesota 1971-78 20 Wright, Kenny, CB, Northwestern St. 1999-01 43 Wright, Nate, CB, San Diego St. 1971-80 97 Wyms, Ellis, DT, Mississippi St. 2008 3 Wynn, Spergon, QB, SW Texas St. 2001

91 Yakavonis, Ray, DT, E. Stroudsburg 1980-83 66 Yankey, David, G, Stanford 2014 73 Yary, Ron, T, USC 1968-81 50 Yates, Max, LB, Marshall 2003-04 34 Young, Albert, RB, Iowa 2009-10 34 Young, Jim, RB, Queens Ontario 1965-66 34 Young, Rickey, RB, Jackson St. 1978-83 72 Youso, Frank, T, Minnesota 1961-62

51 Zaunbrecher, Godfrey, C, LSU 1971-73 65 Zimmerman, Gary, T, Oregon 1986-92

Players listed were on the Vikings active roster for at least one game.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 39

Defensive Line: Gearing to stop the run defense. Not only could he pass rush well, but stopping the running game also was a part of his style. Griffen is someone the Vikings hope they can have on their team for a favorable amount of time, as Griffen is the biggest upside at the defensive end position. On the other side of the defensive line, there is Brian Robison. Robison stepped up when Allen was nearing his last games with the Vikings, and made the coaches think that he could easily fill Allen’s shoes. The irony is golden, as Griffen has been the one to steadily improve his game, and Robison is on the decline with his performance. Robison is definitely a pass rusher, but the experts over at Pro Football Focus said Robison was one of the worst run defenders on the Vikings defense. With Robison’s

DEFENSIVE TEDDY BRIDGEWATER LINE Born: November 10, 1992 PROJECTED

DEPTH CHART:

College: Louisville Drafted: 2014 1st Round Right Defensive (32nd overall)End: 1) Everson Griffen #97 2) Scott Crichton #95 2013 Stats: 3,970 Yards, 3) Leon Mackey #78 31 TD, 4 INT, 71% Pass Completion, 171.1 QB Strong Defensive Tackle: Rating at Louisville 1) Linval Joseph #98 2) Tom Johnson #92 Cordarrelle Patterson: 3)Isame #76 I “Teddy hasFaciane been good. have had the opportunity to Weak Defensive Tackle: go in with him a few times. 1) Sharrif Floyd He is looking good.#73 He is Shamar a 2) young guy Stephen and I feel#93 like 3) Chrishon Rose his going to be the#64 star 4) this Chigbo #62 of teamAnunoby one of these years.” Left Defensive Rick Spielman:End: “He 1) Brain to Robison #96 is going have some 2) Danielle Hunter growing pains as we#99 go 3) Justin Trattou through this, but he#94 has been extremely impressive for a with spot:not onPlaying his approach Dubose onlyB.J. what he does#90 on the Casesar Rayford field but what he also#91 does off it with how hard he is working and studying to understand Norv Turner’s system.”

Trevor Cokley - MSU Reporter Everson Griffen led the Vikings with 12 sacks in 2014.

TOMMY WIITA Staff Writer The Minnesota Vikings defense last year looked revamped and ready to compete, and that may have had a lot to do with new head coach Mike Zimmer. For the 2014 season, one of the team’s biggest strengths was the defensive line. Everson Griffen could have contested for the MVP of the defense last year, as it was honestly a coming-out party waiting to happen. The team also has a handful a rookies and free agent signings at the position, which

will create a competitive environment during Training Camp. Griffen showed up to camp looking as beastly of a man you could ever possibly see, and that is encouraging to the Vikings coaching staff and fans alike. Once Jared Allen left Minnesota, a lot of so-called “experts” were not okay with the Vikings choosing to forego signing a big name in free agency and instead signing Everson Griffen for more money to take over the defensive end position. Griffen responded in the best way possible, as he piled up 12 sacks and being a dominant figure on the Vikings

DEFENSIVE LINE • Page 40

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DEFENSIVE LINE “Everson Griffen could have contested for the MVP of the defense last year, as it was honestly a coming-out party waiting to happen. ” age not getting any younger,32 years-old and his $5.65 million cap hit coming, Robison may soon be the odd man out on a roster that is being created around the youth movement. In the third round with the 88th overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings selected defensive end Danielle Hunter from Louisiana State University. He could have the next shot at a starting position at defensive end. Only playing five seasons of football, Hunter is as raw of a talent as they come. The Jamaica native started all 13 games as a junior, and recorded 4.5 sacks, 21 tackles for a loss, and recovered a fumble against Mississippi State University and ran it back 25 yards for a score in that game. The Vikings also drafted B.J. Dubose out of the University of Louisville in the sixth round, 193rd overall. Dubose had a career senior season in college, as he started all 13 games, made 41 tackles, four sacks and 7.5 tackles for a loss. He also earned Honorable Mention All-ACC honors for his fantastic season. In his four-year career at Louisville, he totaled 94 tackles, 7.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for a loss. There

are rookies knocking at the door waiting for their opportunity at the defensive end position, and the Vikings are grateful for the depth at that position. Now to move on to the defensive tackles, and that all begins with the University of Florida alum Sharrif Floyd. Floyd had a tremendous second season in the NFL last year, despite battling a knee problem towards the end of the second half of the year. According to the statisticians over at Pro Football Focus, they ranked Floyd as the best defender on the Vikings last season, 4.1 points ahead of safety Harrison Smith. Floyd recorded 11 starts in 14 games, while recording career highs in tackles (55), sacks (4.5), tackles for loss (11), and quarterback pressures with 43. He will and should be the rock in the middle that the Vikings have craved ever since Kevin Williams departed. Linval Joseph signed with the Vikings last season on a free agency deal that was Coach Mike Zimmer’s first. He started all 16 games last season, and finished second in tackles amongst the defensive line. He had 73, and Griffen had 75. Joseph has the Super Bowl experience, as he

Trevor Cokley - MSU Reporter Rookie Chrishon Rose is competing for a spot on the Vikings defensive line rotation in 2015.

won with the New York Giants in 2011. Some have compared Joseph’s big size (6’4”, 329 lbs.) to fill the big hole in the middle that Pat Williams left. Another notable to remember is Tom Johnson, who had a season that no one saw coming. Johnson has literally been all over the world playing football at this point, as he played in the

Arena Football League, NFL Europa and the Canadian Football league before he signed a one year deal last season with Minnesota. As a situational pass rusher, he recorded 6.5 sacks for the season. Johnson was resigned before the season, and the Vikings are hoping for more success from the journeyman. The Vikings certainly have

their hands full at the defensive line position, but that is a nice problem to have for once. There are 14 total defensive linemen in camp this season, and any of them could step up to create some raised eyebrows and earn a spot. Expect the line to be another strong-suit for the Vikings next season, and most likely beyond that.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 41

NFC North Preview

The Reporter’s Tommy Wiita gives his preview of the NFC North Division TOMMY WIITA Staff Writer Within the past decade or so, the NFC North has been fully dominated by the Green Bay Packers. This season, the Packers will still be the team to be named the king of the north going into the 2015 NFL season. The Chicago Bears have almost gone full re-build mode in trading key players, yet keeping quarterback Jay Cutler. The Detroit Lions have always seemed to have the roster to keep up with the rest of the NFL and reach the playoffs each year. Unfortunately, that has been anything but the case for that organization. Then there are the Vikings from Minnesota, who have their star running back in Adrian Peterson back and have a young but talented team behind him. The division could be an open race between two rivals in Green Bay and Minnesota towards season’s end. The Chicago Bears have had one of the biggest downfalls in the NFL to date. Without any

Yohanes Ashenafi - MSU Reporter The Minnesota Vikings are looking to give the Green Bay Packers a run for the top of the NFC Nortth.

questions asked, this will be the worst team in the division this

upcoming season. The biggest surprise with Chicago is the fact that they have kept and still have confidence in quarterback Jay Cutler. Cutler is nothing more than an average quarterback that needs talent around him to bring him at least a couple inches up from

his mediocre state. It does make sense in some degree for the Bears to hold onto him for now because of the money he is getting paid, and the lack of better talent out there for his position makes it difficult for the Bears to look elsewhere at this point. Cutler does have options on

the offensive side of the ball, as Alshon Jeffery, Martellus Bennett, Matt Forte and the new draftee Kevin White could all create viable fantasy football options. Fantasy options do not

NFC NORTH • Page 43

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42 • MSU REPORTER

FIF T Y SUM M ER S

Quarterbacks: Finally settled As Teddy Bridgewater takes the regins as the starting Quarterback, the Vikings now have what they hope to be their franchise player of the future. spent time with the Patriots, Jaguars and Buccaneers before coming to the Vikings. Heinicke played four seasons at ODU throwing for 14,959 yards and 132 touchdowns. Heinicke was also a threat with

his legs scoring 22 rushing touchdown during his time at ODU. Heinicke also quarterbacked ODU through their transition between FCS and FBS affilation. The Vikings have hopefully found their quarterback after

years of searching for that franchise star. Bridgewater has all the tools and talent around him to be successful. Now he just has to go out on the field and do it.

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

LUKE LONIEN Sports Editor “TEDDY! TEDDY! TEDDY!” chants around Julias A. Sears as the second year Quarterback arrived to Vikings’ training camp. Teddy Bridgewater has the starting position in lock, and as a veteran behind him to help him grow, Shaun Hill. Bridgewater, 22, is back to lead the Vikings offense in 2014. Bridgewater is coming off a successful season, which saw him throw for 2,919 yards and 14 touchdowns. He was able to turn things on at the end of the season post 10 touchdowns in the final six games. Hill is back in uniform for a second stint with Minnesota. Hill is in his 14th season in the NFL playing for four teams in that time. The journeyman

was an undrafted free agent out of Maryland in 2002 and spent 2002, 2004 and 2005 with the Vikings, while he spent 2003 with the Amsterdam Admirals in NFL Europe. He then spent three seasons with the 49ers, four seasons with the Lions and one season with the Rams. Hill was a great fit for the Vikings, as he has plenty of knowledge to pass along to young Bridgewater and can step in and play if anything were to happen to the current starter. With Bridgewater and Hill locking up their roles in 2015, that leaves the third string quarterback role up for grabs. The battle is between Mike Kafka out of Northwestern and Taylor Heinicke out of Old Dominion. Kafka was drafted in the 4th round in the 2010 draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. Kafka then

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 43

NFC NORTH “The Chicago Bears have had one of the biggest downfalls in the NFL to date. Without any questions asked, this will be the worst team in the division this upcoming season.” continued from 41 wards the top in the NFL for total defense, but this season will be much different. Ndamukong Suh is now with the Miami Dolphins, and the Lions will miss his presence dearly. In other posts in articles, some writers have the Lions finishing second in the division. That will be a high wall to climb, as the Lions are not the same team everyone views them as. There will be no playoff football for Detroit in 2015.

The Detroit Lions have a similar attribute as the Chicago Bears have: fantastic fantasy options that will not create success on the gridiron. Calvin Johnson is back, and he should be the healthy “Megatron” that tears up the field when quarterback Matthew Stafford gets him the football. Golden Tate also emerged as a great option, as he stepped up in a big way in Johnson’s absence with injuries. Stafford will still be a solid NFL quarterback, but it looks as if he may have already hit his ceiling in potential. The part of the team that was hurt the most this offseason was the defense. Detroit in the past three seasons have ranked to-

The Purple People Eaters are coming back to life. Last season in finishing 7-9 overall, the Minnesota Vikings showed tremendous improvement on their team. This was all done basically without Adrian Peterson, who reported to camp looking as if he was just in the most recent episode of WWE. Peterson will have an explosive year, as he is out there with something to prove. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater will love having Peterson behind him, as that will open up the passing game with defenders giving their respects to Adrian by stacking

the line. The offense looks great with a heathy Matt Kalil and Phil Loadholdt on the offensive line, and adding wide receiver Mike Wallace along with Charles Johnson, Kyle Rudolph and Cordarrelle Patterson, and

the Vikings may have something cooking this season on offense. The Defense has improved thanks to the defensive minded head coach in Mike Zimmer. There is young, fiery talent all over the field.

The secondary looks sharp, with rookie Trae Waynes and third year player Xavier Rhodes playing big for their size at the

NFC NORTH • Page 44

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create a team’s success however. Chicago is hoping they can have a fully healthy offensive line in 2015, as most of the team’s woes could have been blamed solely on their performance alone. The once punishable Bears defense is no more, as there is a lot of work to do on that side of the ball. Their downfall might be the defense, as they cannot afford to play behind in many games as 2014 showed.

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FIF T Y SUM M ER S

NFC NORTH “The Purple People Eaters are coming back to life. Last season in finishing 7-9 overall, the Minnesota Vikings showed tremendous improvement on their team” continued from 43 corner position. Safety Harrison Smith is someone you want to avoid on offense, as he has been budding as a star of this league for the past couple seasons now. The potential is all there for this Minnesota team, as the sky is the limit. They are priding themselves to achieving high goals that are set, and do not be surprised if they are a dark horse wild card team by season’s end. The cheese heads of Green Bay will most likely be happy with this team once again. The squad did not do much to improve their football team, as there was not much to be addressed to begin with.

Aaron Rodgers is the reigning MVP with stud receivers in Randall Cobb and Jordy Nelson. Eddie Lacy will be hoping for an injury-free season. Without Aaron Rodgers however, this team would not be who they are. He is the engine that makes them go, just as someone like LeBron

Calvin Johnson is back healthy to lead a talented Lions offense, however defense is a big quesiton in Detriot.

James can do with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The defense will do enough, as Rodgers will most

likely light up defenses for 20+ points a game. The Packers should finish in first place yet

again, but expect a legitimate challenge from the Minnesota Vikings.

sportsworldreport.com

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 45

Harrison Smith: Stepping up in 2015 LUKE LONIEN Sports Editor

Harrison Smith Born: February 2, 1989 College: Notre Dame Acquired: 2012 Draft (1st round, 29th overall) 2014 Stats: 93 combined tackles,three sacks, three interceptions. Harrison Smith: “We have been hearing rumblings of how good we can be all offseason and that is something coach Zimmer addressed early. I think we are all pretty grounded guys, hardworking guys. That’s all we’re focused on. Can’t win the Super Bowl today. Can’t make the playoffs today. Can’t win the division today...”

When the Vikings jumped back into the first round in 2012 to grab a safety out of Notre Dame, they were hoping to get a player that could solidify the defensive secondary. They got that and way more. Now starting in his fourth season in the NFL, Harrison Smith has become known has a hard-hitting safety, whom can play great in coverage. The Vikings saw some of that talent in 2012 when they drafted him. He has panned out better than anyone could have expected. Smith has quarterbacked the defensive backfield for the Vikings for the last two seasons, while becoming one of the most feared safeties in the league. Smith has great feet and instincts as well. Three of his 10 interceptions have gone back for touchdowns, while returning one of his interceptions for 81 yards in 2014. Smith had his highest tackling season in 2012, which put him on the map. Smith had 104 combined tackles with 74 solos including one sack and breaking up 11 passes for a team that snuck into the playoffs.

MSU Reporter Harrison Smith is back to lead the Vikings secondary in 2015, setting high goals for himself.

He had problems staying healthy in a high expectation season in 2013, as he only played in eight games. Smith was still effective in his eight games of play as he grabbed two interceptions while grabbing 58 combined tackles.

Smith really exploded onto th scene in 2014. Starting to earn the role as the leader of the defense, teams were starting to throw and run away from Smith. That didn’t stop the 26 year old as he wrapped up 93 tackles, 72 of them solo, a career-high five

interceptions and three sacks. Smith isn’t slowing down there; he has set high expectations for himself again in 2015. “Every year I write down

HARRISON SMITH • Page 46

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SMITH “Smith has quarterbacked the defensive backfield for the Vikings for the last two seasons, while becoming one of the most feared safeties in the league.” continued from 45 goals. I don’t hit them every time but I think it just gives you something to mentally shoot for and kind of keeps you progressing towards something,” Smith said. “I like to reach for some pretty outrageous goals, so last year I probably hit under half of them.” With Smith it comes with playing the game. He is a hardnose safety that isn’t afraid to rush the passer, one thing he wants to get better at in 2015, among others aspects of his game. “One example would be becoming a better blitzer, getting better pressure on the quarterback when I get a chance to go. You can improve on in every area especially myself. There’s too many areas to list but definitely a lot of things come to mind,” Smith said. Smith, being the quarterback of the defense has really took over a leadership role on defense. Smith is considered a veteran on this young team, even with the likes of Chad Greenway and Brian Robison leading the front seven. “Obviously the coaches are the ones who develop the players best and teach them technique, but I thinking forming some chemistry with especially the young guys will help them with things that are more on with on field drills,” Smith said. “Communicating well with them and having some confidence. They can trust you and come to you ask you questions. It just makes

mninteractive.com

Harrison Smith had a career-high three interceptions in 2014, returning one of them for an 81-yard touchdown.

everybody feel more comfortable.” Smith wants to set an example for the young players on this team, especially for the secondary, which is all about communicating and trust.

“Especially on the back end in the secondary we work together and I think just having trust with another is key. I think when the young guys can count on you, then that helps that trust come along much faster,” Smith said.

Smith is healthy and ready to lead the Vikings secondary in 2015. With a young and athletic secondary, the Vikings will need Smith to stay healthy too help propel this defensive to the ceiling of their potential.

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MSU REPORTER • 47

Greenway is ready to compete and lead in 2015 CHAD GREENWAY Born: January, 12 1983 College: Iowa Acquired: 2006 Draft (1st round, 17th overall) 2014 Stats: 93 combined tackles, 56 solo tackles, one forced fumble, one sack. Greenway: “It’s just going to be one day at a time and it’s going to be a fun process. Especially to see where the young guys kind of fit in and fill in..”

LUKE LONIEN Sports Editor Chad Greenway has been a staple in the Vikings defense since 2007. Greenway was the 17th overall pick in the 2006 draft. After an injury in his rookie season, Greenway was able to bounce back and grab over 100 combined tackles in his eight years as a linebacker. He was as solid as they come, finishing in the top five in tackles from 2010-2012. Greenway even has decent hands for a linebacker, bringing in nine interceptions in his career. As Greenway has aged, his play has declined like most defensive players have. He may not be as fast, but what can you expect from a guy who has played in all 16 games from 2007-2013. Greenway is also a mentor but that doesn’t take out the competitor in him. “ It’s a pretty natural thing.

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It’s happened throughout all sports, all the time, every year. It’s a competitiveness that you have within your own group, just speaking of linebackers because I know it. It’s also you root for those guys though because you see them put the work in, you see them go out in the offseason, you see they have the character, and the high character guys that

they are so it’s a little bit of both,” Greenway said. Greenway has been one of the most consistent players in the NFL at his position, and with young teammates around him, Greenway his looked up too as a leader and his work ethic. His work ethic brings out the competitor in him. Even though the young guys will be asking Gre-

enway questions, he will bring his A-game this Training Camp. “It’s competitive by nature and it’s what we have done our whole lives, I don’t think there is any line between it just kind of coincides and you just keep going day-to-day and they’re going

GREENWAY • Page 18

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GREENWAY “He was as solid as they come, finishing in the top five in tackles from 2010-2012. Greenway even has decent hands for a linebacker, bringing in nine interceptions in his career.” continued from 47 to ask you questions. Especially me in my room, I’m the oldest by probably six or seven years and so those guys have a lot of questions and I need to be there to answer them for them but I also, at the same time, I have to go out there and take care of business physically and try to start on this football team,” Greenway said. The Vikings have high expectations and it is not just the media who is giving it to them, the team themselves have set high goals for themselves. There is a lot of work left, and Greenway knows it. “Obviously we have high expectations. Drummed up with the media or just in the organization, a lot of people are excited about this team. Obviously, we are young and have a lot of unanswered questions, but we have been here in this same day over the past ten years. There’s been years that we haven’t had these expectations and it not quite as fun,” Greenway said. There is plenty of buzz around this team and that makes it fun. When you are competing

hard with high expectations from outside the organization its more enjoyable. “Obviously, it’s nice to be sitting in a situation where everyone is excited for the team, excited about the direction of the organization and is looking forward to the season. Obviously, there is a ton of work to do and we know what its going to take to get to that point. It’s just going to be one day at a time and it’s going to be a fun process. Especially to see where the young guys kind of fit in and fill in. Expectations are a good thing, its fun,” Greenway said. With Greenway leading a young core of linebackers including 2014’s ninth overall pick Anthony Barr, Eric Kendricks and Audie Cole, the Vikings have a lot of talent to mix and match in different defensive packages. Expectations are high, and nobody on this defense is backing down from them. Yohanes Ashenafi • MSU Reporter Greenway as led the Vikings in tackles from 2008-2013

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 49

MANKATO “Over 300 people have already visited the Vikings display since its opening on July 17, with guests including Vikings Alum Dave Osborn (1965-1975) and John Swain (1981-1984).” continued from 3

Photos contributed by Kelli Kramer

her experience taking her son Guy, who has cerebral palsy, to Vikings Training Camp. “Guy cannot walk or talk, but he gets excited and giggles and he likes the same sort of television shows and books as other kids his age so we try to involve him as much as possible in age appropriate events that other kids his age enjoy,” said Kammer. Kelli had visited Training Camp before, but last year was Guy’s first time going to training camp. “It was great to watch him interact with the players and get so excited about them. They all took the time to sign his football

and talk to him like they would any other kid. They pushed him around the field a bit and he was grinning from ear to ear. I think he felt very special. It was so hot and I know the players were exhausted, but they didn’t act like it, they were wonderful to Guy and the others there.” Kammer remembers an especially lighthearted time with former Vikings quarterback Matt Cassel: “Guy is spastic in that he gets very tight and his movements are very jerky. He kept jerking his arm and hitting Matt Cassel while we were taking a picture. Guy thought it was a very fun

MANKATO • Page 50

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50 • MSU REPORTER

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MANKATO ““I was surprised that the players took so much time to interact with the people that were there, not just Guy, but everyone who was standing and cheering.”” continued from 49 game and kept trying to get his hat off. Matt was very kind about it and kept letting Guy hit his hat off. Guy was squealing and laughing and it was a very sweet moment.” “I was surprised that the players took so much time to interact with the people that were there, not just Guy, but everyone who was standing and cheering. I’m

sure they were ready to relax, but they spent at least an hour after practice signing autographs and posing for pictures. It was nice to take Guy to something where he was included. It is hard to find activities in which Guy can participate sometimes, so whenever there is a chance for him to interact the same way as others, it’s a special moment for him and for

me.” So why is Vikings Training Camp such a great event for families to visit together? “I think this was a great way to spend time together as a family. It’s nice to put away electronics and turn off the television and

MANKATO • Page 51

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2015

MSU REPORTER • 51

MANKATO ““I think this was a great way to spend time together as a family. It’s nice to put away electronics and turn off the television and interact with our community and the people who travel here from all over.”” continued from 50

Photo by Trevor Cokley Fans of all ages come out to Vikings Training Camp in Mankato.

interact with our community and the people who travel here from all over,” she said. “It was great to see how many people come together for this. It is great to see all the signs up at businesses welcoming the Vikings to town and how everyone really gets involved!” Training Camp season is a great time for Mankato-area residents, students, and all the fans that make the trip in to see their favorite team play. Sports Editor Luke Lonien says that every year, the section writers work hard to cover all the events, players, and look forward to the new footballs season: “We always have a good time going out and seeing the players,

even though we are writing a high volume of stories in a short period of time. We also get the chance to pick the brains of other media professionals—it’s great experience,” said Lonien. Mankato has enjoyed fifty summers of collaboration with the Minnesota Vikings, with families, businesses, and fans all coming together to celebrate football and their community. We would like to thank and remember all of the athletes, staff, and Vikings fans who have participated in the Mankato Training Camp for the past fifty years and look forward to the next fifty years that are to come. SKOL Vikings!

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