Minnesota Vikings: Training Camp Day 4

Throughout the first few days of Minnesota Vikings Training Camp 2009, a lot of speculation and anticipation had dissipated with the absence of Brett Favre. 

Tavaris Jackson was the center of controversy following the first-round playoff loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Filling in for an injured Gus Frerotte, Jackson threw a key interception which was returned for a touchdown by Eagles cornerback Asante Samuel.

Many fans all offseason have been calling for the demotion of Jackson to backup for this season. Following last season's postseason catastrophe, how can you blame them?

Now a fourth-year quarterback, Jackson was reportedly demanding a trade if Favre decided to sign with the team last week. With the lack of success on the field, those seem like pretty bold aspirations by the young quarterback. His reputation has gradually diminished with his inconsistent throws and lack of concentration in the pocket.

On the Vikings’ second day of training camp, Jackson was rolled up on by defensive tackle LeTroy Guion. At this point, Jackson has not returned to camp and has not participated in any full-contact drills.

Today is the first day the Vikes lined up in full gear, but honestly this morning practice was relatively boring and uneventful. It is pretty obvious why the Vikings were so adamant in there pursuit of Brett Favre. Sage Rosenfels has shown hints of talent with the first-team offense this morning, but he has not stood out in front of second-year quarterback John David Booty.

Rosenfels was plagued by meltdowns in Houston last season, which ultimately ended with his value dropping from a second-round pick in 2008, to the fourth rounder the Vikings gave up prior to the draft.

It's sad to day for Vikings hopefuls out there, but without Favre, this team looks eerily similarly to last season. A lack of a consistent passing game and the ability to hold onto the football could be the dagger to all their Super Bowl hopes.

I can't imagine the Jackson/Rosenfels duo throwing anything less than 15 interceptions this season. However, Favre may have not been a whole lot better in the turnover category; he makes up for it with his brilliant arm and his calm, cool demeanor late in games.

All of those predictions of a 12+ win season for this team should definitely be reconsidered prior to the season. It will be interesting to see how this team progresses and witnessing how far the best running back in the league can make two of the most mediocre quarterbacks I have ever seen in a purple uniform.

With Jackson injured and Rosenfels taking all the snaps, we'll see how week one progresses. Stay tuned.