In this festive post-Christmas episode of Two Old Bloggers on Vikings 1st & SKOL, hosts Darren Campbell (fresh from his trip), Dave Stefano, and this season’s sidekick Drew Bunting deliver passionate, unfiltered analysis of the Minnesota Vikings’ thrilling 23-10 upset over the Detroit Lions. The defense stole the show on Netflix’s holiday showcase, forcing six turnovers to eliminate Detroit from playoff contention while rookie QB Max Brosmer managed a gritty (if limited—very) performance amid J.J. McCarthy’s hand injury absence.
The nearly two-hour live stream relives the chaos: Harrison Smith’s vintage masterpiece (interception, sack, tackles for loss), Andrew Van Ginkel’s dominance, Jordan Addison’s 65-yard jet sweep TD dagger, Will Reichard’s clutch kicks, and Brian Flores’ aggressive blitz-heavy scheme that baffled Jared Goff. The bloggers debate Pro Bowl snubs, player futures, and why extending Flores is the offseason’s top priority for 2026 contention.
Key Points Discussed:
- Game Recap Highlights: Vikings sweep Lions in 2025; defense holds opponents below season scoring average in 11 of 16 games; key stands by Eric Wilson, Blake Cashman, Byron Murphy, and Dallas Turner.
- QB Situation: Max Brosmer’s undrafted rise and struggles (low passing yards but no turnovers); concerns over his readiness as backup; J.J. McCarthy’s injury-plagued season.
- Player Discussions: Harrison Smith’s potential Ring of Honor case; Aaron Jones’ future; Jalen Nailor’s free agency vs. keeping Jordan Addison; Ty Chandler’s limited role.
- Pro Bowl Snubs & Incentives: Vikings get zero selections despite strong cases (e.g., Reichard as NFC’s best kicker); historic zero for the team.
- Brian Flores Plea: Hosts urge extension (contract expires post-2025); make him assistant head coach; his scheme elevates players like Josh Metellus, Jalen Redmond; defense ranked top-5 in multiple metrics despite injuries.
Listen:
Watch:
Don’t miss this SKOL-filled episode packed with heart, humor, and hardcore Vikings insight—perfect for fans craving veteran blogger takes on the purple’s defensive dominance and offseason outlook. Tune in on Vikings 1st & SKOL or Fans First Sports Network for the full live experience!
Fan With Us!
We have your Minnesota Vikings talk amongst the Two Old Bloggers, Darren @KickassblogVike, and Dave @Luft_Krigare along with our numbers guy, Drew Bunting. Join the conversation! Fan with us at Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and with our podcast partner Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN.
Question:
What do you think the Vikings’ top offseason priority should be: extending Brian Flores, addressing QB depth, or bolstering the secondary? Share your thoughts below!
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