The Vikings 2019 53-man roster was born from competition. The coaches gave youngsters a real chance to make this team, and if no one stepped up, no one made the cut. That's why Minnesota went thin at WR before picking up Josh Doctson. That's why the front office cut both Kaare Vedvik and Matt Wile in favor of Britton Colquitt. 

On the podcast I talk about all the competition, and the results. I discuss what we can expect from Josh Doctson this year and the latest chapter in the Vikings Specialist Saga.

Then we dive into the PLUS matchups. Three Star Vikings have the opportunity to start the 2019 season with a bang. 

Adam Thielen has a series of winnable matchups against cornerbacks who are still relatively raw: Desmond Trufant, Jaire Alexander, Gareon Conley and Kyle Fuller. Can he replicate that 8-game streak where he gained 100 yards? Can he climb even further up our loaded history of star wide receivers?

Dalvin Cook at 100% could be the main difference between 2018 and 2019. He glimpsed just a little in the preseason and is set to soar behind a new offensive line and new offensive scheme. If blocking and play calling get him in space, watch out! De'Vondre Campbell, Blake Martinez, Tahir Whitehead and Danny Trevathan struggle to tackle elusive backs like Cook.

Harrison Smith still swarms every inch of the turf. After a down 2018 in coverage, it'll be interesting to see how his role adjusts as the centerpiece of Mike Zimmer defense. A return to the all-world form we've seen from Smith during his career would completely change the narrative on the "aging" purple defense. Austin Hooper, Jimmy Graham, Darren Waller and Trey Burton are all manageable tight ends. Expect Harrison to erase them and lead the Zim Reapers.

So look for Adam Thielen, Dalvin Cook and Harrison Smith to pull our team to victory.  Let's get this ride started now! Skol Vikes.

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