This much has become clear.

If the Vikings are going to be playing early next month in South Florida, they are going to have to put together outstanding defensive performances in back-to-back games. We mean the type of performances that would guarantee Leslie Frazier a head coaching job. The first will have to come Sunday when the Vikings play host to the Dallas Cowboys in an NFC divisional playoff game.

Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo promises to employ a quick passing game against a Vikings defense and tight end Jason Witten figures to be a primary target. But stopping the Cowboys might be a walk in the park compared to what it will be like facing quarterback Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints.

The Saints offense has looked very, very good today and they lead 35-14 over the Arizona Cardinals at halftime of their playoff game. Arizona has lost safety Antrel Rolle (head), cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (left knee) and quarterback Kurt Warner (chest).

UPDATE: Warner has returned to the game with 12:45 left in the third quarter.