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| Randy Moss Threat Takes Men Out Of The Box |
Adrian Peterson said the acquisition of Randy Moss made him feel like a kid in a candy store. He also compared it to Christmas.
His excitement is understandable. While most of the trade talk has focused on Moss' potential impact on the Vikings struggling pass game, the threat of his big-play capability and downfield speed also should loosen things up for Peterson and the running game.
"That was my initial thought when I heard the news," Peterson said. "It's going to make the offense more dynamic, definitely give us that deep threat and open up the run game."
Both Peterson and offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell used the phrase "pick your poison" to describe how Moss' presence could affect defensive game plans.
Opponents routinely have committed an extra defender or two near the line to clog up running lanes and neutralize Peterson. That plan doesn't always work, and it's not an every-down strategy, but it's certainly made life difficult for Peterson and the offensive line.
The Vikings said they believe the addition of Moss will force defenses to play more honestly and not have their safeties help as much in run support.
"It definitely loosens things up," Peterson said. "When you got a player like Randy Moss, it loosens it up even more. When I heard the news I was excited and overwhelmed. I'm just looking forward to taking that first snap with him."
It's not as if Peterson has struggled in the absence of a consistent passing game. The Vikings rank fifth in the NFL in rushing. Peterson is tied for third in rushing with 392 yards, is averaging 5.6 yards per carry and had a career-long 80-yard touchdown run against Detroit.
But with Sidney Rice sidelined after having hip surgery, the Vikings had virtually no vertical passing game the first three games, or even the threat of one. They are ranked 24th in passing, and their longest pass play is 33 yards.
