Since the Vikings lost to the New York Giants in last year's playoffs, they've lost defensive end John Randle to free agency, offensive lineman Todd Steussie was cut for salary cap reasons, linebacker Dwayne Rudd signed elsewhere, running back Robert Smith retired, and All Pro offensive lineman Korey Stringer died tragically during training camp.

If ever there were a season that things could fall apart, this is it! But don't count on it, because Dennis Green is a master at plugging holes and finding guys that can get the job done.

The offense is still the strength of the Vikings, but Smith's surprise retirement is a serious blow to this team. Sure they picked up Michael Bennett of Wisconsin with their first pick in the draft, and he has looked good during the preseason, but Smith was an underrated key to the offense and will be tough to replace. Their need to fill Smith's slot also forced them to use their first pick on a speedy running back, instead of using it on a defender that could have made an impact right away.

Last season, Daunte Culpepper stepped up and played like a veteran, and was a huge part in the Vikings surprising success. The Vikings and Dennis Green need someone to step up on the defensive side this season, the way Culpepper did last year, and give the Vikings the boost they need to win it all. This team will not win a championship until the defense holds up their end of the deal.

Overview

The biggest problem this year, obviously, is on the defensive side of the ball... more specifically, in the defensive secondary. This is basically the same secondary that was 28th in the league against the pass last year, so unless these guys have suddenly figured out how to play, they will struggle against passing teams again. If you take a look back at last season, you will see the Vikings had problems with teams with a quality passer at quarterback. That trend is not likely to end anytime soon.

The Vikings are a great offensive team, but I don't think they have the defense to win the division. They will have a tough time slowing down the division rival Packers' Brett Favre, and Tampa Bay could give them trouble if Brad Johnson has a good season. I believe the Vikings will be a playoff contender, but they won't win the division!