Recent content from Mark Craig
Mark Craig's conference championship picks: Who will make it to the Super Bowl?
Patrick Mahomes vs. Josh Allen again in the AFC. NFC East rivals squares off for a trip to New Orleans. Who will be the last two teams standing?
Vikings' O'Connell, Darnold, Flores are finalists for NFL awards
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell, quarterback Sam Darnold and defensive coordinator Brian Flores are in the running for three of the league's most prestigious awards, which will be presented Feb. 6.
Mark Craig's NFL Insider: Vikings must address interior offensive line issues
The league's most powerful offensive teams found a way to get better at guard and center to improve pass protection and running games.
Mark Craig's NFL playoff predictions: Two-time defending champion Chiefs have entered the chat
Kansas City, Detroit and Philadelphia are heavy favorites in the divisional round this weekend while Buffalo and Baltimore seem primed for a classic. Who will win?
Five extra points: Vikings' heaviest players get heavy criticism after Rams shred the offensive line
A terrible call blunted Minnesota's first run at a rally, and Kevin O'Connell contributed with a bad fourth-down decision. Sam Darnold? Wow.
Analysis: NFL's best QB? Coach? Defense? Let's dive in to wild-card weekend.
Mark Craig evaluates the 12 teams playing wild-card weekend to see if any of them can stop Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs from claiming a historic Super Bowl three-peat.
Vikings' Jefferson, DePaola, Van Ginkel voted onto All-Pro teams
Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson and long snapper Andrew DePaola earned first-team All-Pro honors for the second time in three seasons while edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel is a second-team All-Pro.
NFL playoffs: Mark Craig's preview and predictions for wild-card weekend
Vikings vs. Rams. Ravens vs. Steelers. Packers vs. Eagles. Rookie QBs. MVP contenders. The opening weekend of the NFL playoffs has a lot to offer. But will there be any surprises?
Analysis: Darnold isn't the only Vikings veteran who needs to step it up vs. Rams
Looking back at the Vikings' 30-20 loss to the Rams in October reveals that Hall of Fame-worthy cornerback Stephon Gilmore had one of his worst games of the season as the defense struggled to contain Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua.
Analysis: Don't ask Harrison Smith about next season. The Vikings are 'not done yet.'
Longtime Vikings safety Harrison Smith doesn't want to forget about Sunday's 31-9 loss to the Lions that set up a more difficult playoff path. "You learn from losses," he said. "We learn from this."
NFC North Week 18 picks: Division title comes down to the final game in Detroit
The Sunday night showdown between the Vikings and Lions features Detroit's No. 1 scoring offense against Minnesota's No. 4 scoring defense.
Analysis: How Lions' Dan Campbell became 'Dan Gamble' vs. Vikings
The Detroit coach's 'go for it' mentality was on display in his first win against the Vikings in 2021. It will play a vital role in the teams' Sunday night showdown for the NFC North title.
Analysis: Why does the Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell want to learn more about Guy Chamberlin?
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell is, by some measures, one of the most successful active coaches in the NFL. He also finds himself closing in on a Hall of Famer from the 1920s in the record books.
Five extra points: Given a moment, Darnold makes numbers add up
The quarterback's stats against the Packers varied dramatically depending on pressure. Also notable: Kevin O'Connell in close games, Aaron Jones on any-down-and-short and Brian Flores' defense.
Who's the most underrated Viking of 2024? We counted the votes and the winner is...
The Minnesota Star Tribune spent the week asking Vikings players and fans, "Who is the most underrated Viking and why?" Eighty-three people gave 33 different answers, and nary a one got it wrong.
Former Vikings Jared Allen is Hall of Fame finalist for fifth time
Allen is among final 15 modern-era candidates for Pro Football Hall of Fame.
NFC North picks: Will Lions, Vikings set up Week 18 showdown for No. 1 seed?
Detroit receiver Jameson Williams is giving future opponents – including a certain team from the Twin Cities – cause for concern as the race for the division title and No. 1 seed comes down to the wire.
Analysis: Franchise tag for Darnold would add another layer to unpredictable Vikings season
The Vikings have a problem to solve about quarterback Sam Darnold's future, but it's a problem that seems tailor-made for the one-year franchise tag.
Most underrated Viking in 2024? Most underrated moment? Tell us what you think.
The Minnesota Star Tribune wants to pick the brains of Vikings fans about their unsung Vikings players and unheralded plays of their surprising 13-2 season.
Five extra points: Five snaps tell the Darnold story, and fourth down reveals something about O'Connell
Also spicing up matters in Sunday's win in Seattle: Byron Murphy's flex, Will Reichard's "Stone Cold Killer" persona and Jonathan Greenard's tackle-for-loss timing.
Analysis: Why Vikings' 12-2 record means more to Akers
Back from two torn Achilles tendons by age 25, Vikings running back Cam Akers has a key role as Aaron Jones' backup on a team that's playoff-bound.
NFC North picks: Will Packers keep rolling? Can Lions stay healthy?
The Minnesota Star Tribune's Mark Craig takes a spin around the NFC North and finds depth in Detroit, a bright spot in Chicago and lots of points in Green Bay.
Analysis: Why an unheralded Vikings defensive lineman earned a game ball vs. the Bears
Vikings defensive lineman Jerry Tillery had nothing on his stat sheet beyond a single assisted tackle against the Bears on Monday night. But his coach and teammates gave him credit for so much more.
Five extra points: Stopping the run, faking the run and just running all work for Vikings
Two less positive matters require addressing: Kevin O'Connell, just kick that field goal. Cam Robinson, thank goodness you're here, but be careful before the snap, please.
Analysis: Vikings' Sam Darnold for NFL MVP?! Don't laugh.
One of 50 voters tasked with choosing the NFL's Most Valuable Player processes Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold's chances at winning the award.
NFC North Week 15 picks: Pressure is on Lions to beat Bills
The Minnesota Star Tribune's Mark Craig takes a spin around the NFC North and finds pressure in Detroit, surprising takeaways in Chicago and points of turnovers in Green Bay.
Jamin Davis needs only nine snaps to remind us of his first-round pedigree
Recently signed following the injury to Ivan Pace Jr., former first round pick Davis is resurrecting his career and making the most of his time with the Vikings.
Five extra points: 'Special' Darnold play, Vikings' bargain, Falcons' mistakes pave way for win
How quarterbacks Sam Darnold and Kirk Cousins handled pressure - and how the Falcons handled the ball - were turning points in the Vikings' 42-21 victory.
Analysis: As the NFL's second-oldest team, the Vikings seem to think 30 is just a number
Age has not kept the 10-2 Vikings from shocking the league. If anything, it's helped.
NFC North picks: Will Lions or Packers prevail Thursday night? Will Cousins beat Vikings on Sunday?
It's a newsworthy week in the NFC North. The 11-1 Lions host the 9-3 Packers on Thursday night while the Vikings welcome back Kirk Cousins on Sunday and the Bears hand the reins to interim head coach Thomas Brown.
NFL Insider: Arizona coach finds out playing for field goals isn't good enough against Vikings
Jonathan Gannon decided against a decisive touchdown, and the Vikings rolled down the field to win Sunday's game.
Former Vikings Jim Marshall and Chuck Foreman fall short again in Hall of Fame bids
Ralph Hay, Mike Holmgren, Maxie Baughan, Sterling Sharpe and Jim Tyrer make the cut in contributor, coach and seniors categories.
Five extra points: An efficient RB's impact, the coach's kicker effect, and when Mundt is at his best
Cam Akers touched the ball on four plays, but he saved the QB once and the game another time. Kevin O'Connell benefited again from a missed field goal. And it turns out Johnny Mundt is especially successful when his defender falls down.
Analysis: Jonathan Greenard calls to mind image of Johnny Randle chasing that chicken
Of course you remember that old Nike commercial. Greenard promised Sunday to check it out after he was told he had reprised a familiar role against the Cardinals.
Being Robin to Jefferson's Batman has its perks for Vikings receivers
The 9-2 Vikings have provided emphatic evidence that their other offensive options can pummel a defense while star receiver Justin Jefferson is statistically handcuffed.
NFC North picks: Division QBs on display in Thanksgiving games
The Minnesota Star Tribune's Mark Craig takes a spin around the NFC North and focuses on quarterbacks Jared Goff, Caleb Williams and Jordan Love, who all play on Thursday this week.
Analysis: 'Watermelon' ball gives Vikings coordinator a teaching tool to put the boring back in NFL kickoffzzz
Matt Daniels took questions about the team's kicking failures that turned a lead into a near-catastrophe Sunday against the Bears.
Five extra points: Red-zone results, special teams mishaps and thank-you notes for Jefferson
In the Vikings' 30-27 win at Soldier Field, Sam Darnold excelled in the red zone, the special teams have some explaining to do, and Justin Jefferson made a big impact for his teammates.
NFC North picks: Offenses are trending upward
The Minnesota Star Tribune's Mark Craig takes a spin around the NFC North and finds lots and lots of points in Detroit, improvement in Chicago and smart halftime decisions in Green Bay.
Justin Jefferson explains how he would cover Justin Jefferson
As he prepares to face NFC North rival Chicago on Sunday, the Vikings' star wide receiver admits he would use the same defensive strategy opponents are using against him this season.
Analysis: Williams, Bears might not be who Vikings fans think they are
Heading into Sunday's game against the Vikings, the Bears have lost four in a row with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and a shuffled offensive staff. But looks can be deceiving.
Magician? Whisperer? Good coach? O'Connell coaxing more from Darnold than anyone who tried before
Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold is completing more passes more often for more touchdowns than he ever has. "What we're trying to get from Sam is to play the best football of his career," coach Kevin O'Connell said.
8-2! Surprised? You might be, but O'Connell insists he isn't.
The Vikings are among five NFL teams that already have surpassed their victory total of 2023. Coach Kevin O'Connell says he expected it.
Analysis: The NFL's first 70-yard field goal is coming. Here's why.
Never has the NFL had this many big-legged candidates lined up to challenge a once unthinkable distance. Through Week 11 this season, kickers are making 71.9% of their attempts from 50-plus yards and are on pace to shatter the record for attempts and makes from long distance.
Former Vikings diverge: Allen makes Hall of Fame's final 25 for Class of '25, Williams doesn't
It's Jared Allen's fifth time in his five years of eligibility, and he's expected to make the cut to 15 again.
Five extra points: 'Bad Sam' Darnold, Titans run game kept in check while officials keep busy
The Vikings quarterback was more good than bad, Tennessee QB Will Levis came up big but not enough and flags were flying frequently in Nashville.
How Vikings' Romo went from working at a golf course to kicking in the NFL
Like any kicker trying to make it in the NFL, Parker Romo was focused on the next kick, even if he was working at an Arkansas golf club and practicing three times a week at a local high school.
NFC North picks: Will Bears' changes change their fortunes vs. Packers?
The Minnesota Star Tribune's Mark Craig takes a spin around the NFC North and finds stout run defense in Detroit, impatience in Chicago and a notable winning streak in Green Bay.
On the NFL: Here are the Vikings midseason awards
Thanks to some fortunate victories, a pretty good defense and Aaron Jones, the Sam Darnold Era has started off well.
Five extra points: Defense helps Vikings leave Jacksonville as less boneheaded team
The Vikings offense, on the other hand, didn't use tight end T.J. Hockenson enough and misused running back Aaron Jones in an anemic performance against the Jaguars.
Analysis: 'Running backs matter' as NFL sees rushing numbers rise
NFL running backs — and, to be fair, running quarterbacks and jet-sweeping receivers — have mattered more through nine games than any point since 1990. The Vikings' Aaron Jones, for one, welcomes it.
NFC North Week 10 picks: Defenses in the spotlight, for good and bad reasons
The Minnesota Star Tribune's Mark Craig takes a spin around the NFC North and finds the hidden strengths of the Lions defense, the weakness of the Bears defense and a Packers team happy to be off this week.
Vikings' Jefferson shows he has all the answers by handling this question: How'd he get so open!?
Somehow Justin Jefferson, even though he's the league's leading receiver, gets way into the clear against defenses that should know better. Some specifics from Sunday provide an overall explanation.
Analysis: In Darnold's big year for Vikings, resist any urges to yelp, 'Same old Sam!'
Sam Darnold still makes mistakes, but the Vikings quarterback also is doing what coach Kevin O'Connell wants him to do in airing it out.
Five extra points: Reichard's injury, interior offensive line raise concerns during Vikings win
Vikings rookie kicker Will Reichard, who missed his first two kicks of the season, needs an MRI for answers about a quad injury. The team's interior offensive line, meanwhile, had no answers for the Colts' pass rush.
Analysis: Vikings' Jones wants you to call his position 'athlete'
Running back? No. Wide receiver? No. Aaron Jones' skills eschew traditional labels and the mismatches he can create put a smile on his face.
NFC North picks: Packers, Lions in showdown while Vikings try to end skid
The Minnesota Star Tribune's Mark Craig takes a spin around the NFC North and finds a dynamic duo in Detroit, a red-zone revelation in Chicago and a potent offense in Green Bay.
Vikings need Hockenson to do same old things in long-awaited return
Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson will make his season debut Sunday against the Colts nine months after having knee surgery. He says QB Sam Darnold is "going to like having me out there, and we're going to have some fun together."
New left tackle practices with Vikings for first time. Will he play Sunday?
The Vikings haven't said what their plan at left tackle is because they aren't sure how quickly Cam Robinson can get up to speed after Tuesday's trade from Jacksonville.
Vikings' plan at left tackle on hold until Robinson is able to practice
Newly-acquired left tackle Cam Robinson is expected to practice Thursday, but coach Kevin O'Connell wants him in the mix Sunday. Also, tight end T.J. Hockenson is ready to go, and the team is hopeful linebacker Blake Cashman can return vs. the Colts.
Analysis: Vikings tackle Quessenberry's cancer battle changed his life
On the NFL: Offensive tackle David Quessenberry persevered through trying times to forge out a professional career.
Five extra points: Rams open strong, face little resistance from Vikings
Quarterback Matthew Stafford and the Rams set the tone early and held it steady, with Vikings' pass rush looking tired on the road on a short week.
NFC North Week 8 picks: Goff looks a little like an MVP, and his Lions look a lot like the NFL's best team
The Titans aren't likely to be much of a challenge for Detroit on Sunday, a day when three NFC North teams appear set up to win.
Analysis: Trouble before the snap plagues the NFL, and hardly anybody's worse than the Vikings
They stand third in the league in presnap penalties, in a season when teams are making such mistakes at the highest rate in charted history.
Former Vikings Foreman, Marshall clear another hurdle for Pro Football Hall of Fame
List of senior candidates was pared from 60 to 31 by Hall of Fame's Seniors Blue-Ribbon Committee.
Five extra points: Lions' savvy, Vikings' blunders swing momentum in NFC North battle
It took Detroit a quarter to recover from a confounding fake punt, but after that it was the Vikings who were making mistakes in a 31-29 loss at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Analysis: Vikings defense isn't up to the task against top-ranked Lions offense
Make no mistake: Detroit's offense right now is just better than the Vikings defense. The Lions had 11 explosive plays, three of them touchdowns, while QB Jared Goff completed 88% of his passes.
Gilmore's wisdom shows in the championship-caliber swagger of Vikings cornerbacks
Be Like Mike: Two-time All-Pro and 2019 NFL Defensive Player of the Year Stephen Gilmore said he channels his all-time idol, Michael Jordan, in clutch situations.
NFC North Week 7 picks: Will Lions' Williams add to Vikings' 2022 draft regrets?
The Minnesota Star Tribune's Mark Craig takes a spin around the NFC North and finds receiver Jameson Williams primed to torment the Vikings and a last-place Packers team sitting pretty.
Minnesota native Jerry Seeman among 25 contributor candidates being considered for Pro Football Hall of Fame
The former NFL official grew up in Plainview and went to college at Winona State before starting his career.
Six weeks into the NFL season, who's leading the postseason awards?
Way-too-early awards show has O'Connell as coach of the year and Cowboys defense as biggest disappointment
Presenting … the best Vikings tale you've probably never heard
On the NFL Insider: Sammis Reyes' story began in Chile, on a basketball court, and wound through a U.S. boarding school (and some day-old doughnuts), a few colleges, two other NFL teams and football positions on both sides of the line.
NFC North Week 6 picks: Lions return to a schedule packed with challenges
The Minnesota Star Tribune's Mark Craig took a look around the NFC North, turned up teams with reasons for optimism and forecast a Sunday sweep.
Five extra points: Rodgers fooled, Jefferson flustered, Reichard flawless
In the Vikings' 23-17 win in London, Brian Flores' defense took away Jets QB Aaron Rodgers' security blanket, the Jets smothered Justin Jefferson, and Will Reichard was stone cold.
Analysis: O'Connell's bond with Jefferson helping Vikings in more ways than one
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell has encouraged superstar receiver Justin Jefferson to set the standard for his teammates when it comes to playing smarter, tougher and with more passion.
