vikings/nfl

GAME BALLS

Dwight Smith, Vikings: Remember when the veteran safety had two INT returns for TDs in Super Bowl XXXVII and wasn't the MVP? Well, two key picks, including a 93-yard TD, is enough for us.

Tarvaris Jackson, Vikings: Note to the "quarterback of the future:" The future is now.

PLAY OF THE GAME

First quarter, 3:26 left, scored tied 7-7

Giants third-and-7 on their own 13

The play: Eli Manning's pass, in the general direction of tight end Jeremy Shockey, was picked off by Darren Sharper at the 20. Sharper stumbled, righted himself, and raced left for a touchdown.

The result: Manning was shaken and threw three more interceptions before his nightmarish day ended.

MONDAY MORNING QB, ON THE QBS

This week's starter: Tarvaris Jackson

Play: A couple of scrambles were very Tarkenton-like (yeah, we remember the '70s). Grade: Fran

Leadership: Supported by a high-scoring defense, T-Jack avoided big mistakes. He's not getting Pro Bowl votes, but he is 5-2 as a starter this year. Grade: Wade

Stats: Early 60-yard TD toss helped him to a lofty 139.2 rating. Only threw 12 passes, no picks, a fumble and four sacks. Grade: Wade

Overall: Did you know Jackson has only three TD passes this season, but all of them have been for exactly 60 yards? Grade: Wade

DÉJÀ VU?

The Vikings played the Giants on Nov. 13, 2005 in the Meadowlands and won 24-21 by becoming the first team in NFL history score on an interception return (Darren Sharper), a kickoff return (Koren Robinson) and a punt return (Mewelde Moore). They also scored on three interception returns Sunday ... none of that makes up for 41-donut, however.

NEXT WEEK

Vikings vs. Detroit Lions • Noon Sunday