Grant's day last season is inspiration

Vikings defensive tackle Pat Williams didn't need to be reminded Friday that the Packers' Ryan Grant was the only running back to rush for 100 yards against the Vikings last season.

"That's been on my mind all summer," Williams said. "He's the only guy who got 100 yards on us. But that ain't going to happen this Monday night."

Grant rushed for 119 yards on 25 attempts in a 34-0 victory at Lambeau Field last season. The Vikings led the NFL in run defense in 2007, but Grant's performance that day still leaves a bitter taste.

"When we say stop the run, we're not just saying stop the run," linebacker Ben Leber said. "We literally mean it. We want to hold people to 40, 50 yards. That's the kind of standard we've already set. That's not being unrealistic."

The Packers did most of their damage in the second meeting by avoiding tackles Pat and Kevin Williams with quick tosses to the outside. Pat Williams said missed tackles and blown assignments were as much to blame.

"It was just that simple," he said. "Small stuff."

A repeat performance by Grant won't be easy. Grant has been slowed by a hamstring injury but is listed as probable. Injuries along the Packers offensive line have forced them to shuffle personnel.

Packers tackle Mark Tauscher said the Vikings defensive line and Pat Williams in particular pose major problems.

"He's so unusual because for as big as he is, he's able to move so well laterally," Tauscher said. "I also think his instincts are as good as any defensive lineman's are in the league. He knows where you're trying to go and what you're trying to do on your first step. And a lot of times he's able to react quickly enough to stop what you're trying to do."

Injured safety Madieu Williams is attending meetings at Winter Park daily and continues to rehab from a neck injury, according to defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier. Williams, who signed a six-year, $33 million free-agent deal this offseason, is wearing a brace on his neck.

"From what I've been told by our trainers it is just a matter of time before he's back on the field," Frazier said.

Frazier said the Vikings still hope Williams returns for the team's fourth game of the season at Tennessee.

"We're all crossing our fingers and hoping that happens," Frazier said.

With kick returner Maurice Hicks (foot) unable to practice again and listed as doubtful, it appears Aundrae Allison could handle both punt and kickoff return duties against the Packers.

Vikings coach Brad Childress said he doesn't have a problem with Allison doing both jobs as long as he can handle it physically. Allison returned kickoffs last season, setting a team record with a 104-yard return against Detroit. Hicks finished camp No. 1 on the depth chart.

"My nature is any time I'm backing up anybody I'm disappointed because I always feel I'm the best at whatever I do," Allison said.

• Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson said not much has changed with his right knee. Jackson, who suffered a sprained MCL in the preseason, still expects to play Monday.

• The Vikings brought in speakers and piped in noise during practice Friday. "It was loud, but that's not going to simulate Green Bay," tight end Visanthe Shiancoe said.

Staff writers Judd Zulgad and Mark Craig contributed to this report.