Minnesota Vikings News and Links: Saturday, August 21st, 2021

Saturday Open Thread

Good Morning!

It’s game day for the Vikings second preseason game, with the starters expected to see their first action of the year this should be a great way to judge the season…or not at all since it’s preseason with benign offenses and vanilla defenses. I’ll be working today but players I’ll be looking to make an impact:

1) Michael Pierce-it’s his first game with the Vikings since he opted out last year, reports in the media indicate he’s healthy and quicker than advertised.
2) Oli Udoh-he’s the starting right guard even though he hasn’t played the position before, I’m hoping for league average from him…which would be an improvement.
3) ISM-he had a lot of good press and a shoutout from HC Mike Zimmer but didn’t play well last week, he could cement a roster spot with some quality play on offense and special teams.
4) Kellen Mond-now that he’s over the plague and had some practice time will he get some run with the second team and can he show something this week?

Consistent with any preseason game, I’m hoping for no injuries for either team along with a entertaining contest. Since we’ll be having game threads and other articles I’ll be posting a Sunday open thread for the usual complaining, gifs and shenanigans.

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 Saturday, time to fire up the smoker or the grill, start chilling the beer or go to work.

Around the DN since our last open thread:

The big doors at U.S. Bank Stadium will be open for Saturday’s game.

Vikings news from other sources:

From Vikings.com: On the latest episode of Vikings Circle, Vikings.com’s Gabe Henderson talked with DT Michael Pierce about his first game as a Viking inside U.S. Bank Stadium, his excitement about playing alongside Dalvin Tomlinson, how his mindset switches once he gets on the playing field and more.

Pierce Be Nimble, Pierce Be Quick Part of Revamped Roles for Vikings DTs.

Lunchbreak: ESPN Tabs 2021 Vikings as ‘Team On the Rise’

5 Vikings to Watch in Saturday’s Preseason Game.

How to Watch & Listen to Vikings-Colts Preseason Week 2 Game.

League News:

Larry Fitzgerald on NFL future: ‘I just don’t have the urge to play right now’

NFL roundup: Latest league news from Friday, Aug. 20

Chiefs must extend Tyrann Mathieu ASAP; DeVonta Smith’s great first impression in Philadelphia.

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, watch out for the dude behind the plexiglass and Welcome Aboard!

Question of the Day: Which players are you going to be watching against the Colts?