Minnesota Vikings News and Links: July 31st and August 1st, 2021

Weekend Open Thread

Good Morning!

I’m putting a pork butt on the smoker this morning, I was tempted to get a brisket but decided against it. I usually run the smoker at about 190 degrees, based on suggestions by some of you I’m going to run the temp up to 225 or 230 and see how the smoke goes. I’ll be using the usual spices, a combination of ground mustard and Tony Chachere’s creole seasoning. While I’m starting this, mrs_rob is going to ride 64 miles on her road bike in preparation for another Ironman…yes, I’m officially a slacker…but we’ll have smoked meat for dinner!

Meanwhile, we’ll carry on with our news and links open thread full of crockpot recipes, nap strategies and beer recommendations; drop by for some fan wisdom, snark and it’s the weekend, time to fire up the smoker and start chilling the beer.

Around the DN since our last open thread:

Dalvin Cook graduates from Florida State.

Vikings news from other sources:

From Vikings.com: Vikings Circle: Justin Jefferson. On the debut episode of Vikings Circle, Vikings.com’s Gabe Henderson talks with WR Justin Jefferson after the first practice of U.S. Bank Vikings Training Camp about getting back to football, losing out on the Rookie of the Year award last season, his Madden rating, if he’ll bring the Griddy back in 2021 and much more.

The GOAT, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports from the TCO Performance Center, site of U.S. Bank Vikings Training Camp.

Dalvin Cook Celebrates Graduation From Florida State.

Olisaemeka Udoh Welcomes Position Switch to Guard After Surprise Phone Call.

Patrick Peterson Building Collection of Zimmer’s Coaching Points, Guiding Vikings CBs.

League News:

Colts’ defense could be NFL’s best; Packers should pay up for Davante Adams.

Colts QB Carson Wentz to see foot specialist, might need surgery.

NFL’s highlight-reel players: The 32 most thrilling talents of today … and tomorrow.

Roundup: Chiefs TE Travis Kelce (hip/back) sits out practice.

Again, we all know the rules, but in case someone is new:
-No discussion of politics or religion
-No feeding of the trolls
-Leave the gender hatred at the door
-Keep the bad language to a minimum (using the spoiler tags, if you must)
-Speaking of which, if discussing a newer show or movie, please use spoiler tags
-No pictures that could get someone fired or in serious trouble with their employer
-If you can’t disagree in a civil manner, feel free to go away
-While navigating the open thread, just assume it’s sarcasm.
With that, the beer light is on and the bar is open. Belly up & tie one on. Don’t forget to wash your hands, tip the cows and Welcome Aboard!